If you’re involved in a Horizon Europe project, you’ve probably heard a lot about dissemination and communication. Maybe you see them as just another part of the paperwork pile—something you need to do to keep your project compliant. But what if, instead of seeing them as obligations, you saw them as opportunities? Not just to share your project’s results but to boost your organization’s profile and open doors for future success?
Let’s dive into why dissemination and communication aren’t just tasks on your to-do list—they’re golden opportunities that can take your project (and your organization) to the next level.
Why should anyone care about your project?
First, let’s address the big question: why should the public care about your project? EU projects are funded by public money—their money. So, it’s only fair that they know what’s being done with it. Whether it’s a new technology, groundbreaking innovation, or new knowledge that can solve real-world problems, the results of your project are a return on investment for the EU’s citizens.
That’s where dissemination and communication come in. They help you share these results with the world, making sure that the innovations and knowledge don’t just stay locked in your project’s vault but are shared with those who can use them or benefit from them.
Shift your thinking: from obligation to opportunity
Yes, it’s true that Horizon Europe requires projects to have dissemination and communication activities, but here’s the twist: instead of seeing it as a box to check, think of it as a golden opportunity.
Let’s say you’re a company involved in the project. By being active in dissemination and communication, you’re putting your name out there as a thought leader and innovator. You’re not just sharing results—you’re showcasing your team’s skills and expertise on an international stage. That’s a huge opportunity to attract more clients, build partnerships, and grow your business. For universities and research centers, it’s a chance to boost your reputation and draw in more students, researchers and funding both at national and international level.
How can dissemination and communication benefit you?
01. Attract New Clients or Partners
Imagine you’re sharing updates about your project on social media, highlighting your team’s achievements. Potential clients see your posts and realise your organisation has exactly the expertise they need. Maybe they hadn’t even heard of you before, but thanks to your active presence, they’re now knocking on your door.
The same goes for research institutions. The more visible you are, the more likely you’ll attract other universities or research centres looking to collaborate. Active dissemination and communication make your organization a go-to partner in future projects.
02. Boost your organization’s image
Whether you’re a large company, a small start-up, or a university, being part of a Horizon Europe project already boosts your credibility. But if you’re also actively participating in dissemination and communication—presenting at conferences, sharing updates on your website, posting on social media—you’re building a reputation for being an engaged, forward-thinking organization. And let’s face it, people want to work with and for organizations that are visible, dynamic, and pushing boundaries.
03. Attract top talent
Let’s say you’re a large organization with big goals. You need the best professionals to join your team, but so does everyone else. Here’s where your Horizon Europe project can really work for you. When potential employees see your active involvement in cutting-edge international projects, it’s a huge draw. You’re not just another company or institution—you’re one that’s shaping the future, which makes you a highly attractive place to work.
04. Secure future funding and partnerships
Consortia for Horizon Europe projects don’t just form out of thin air. Partners look for active, competent, and visible organizations to collaborate with. By making your role in dissemination and communication known, you’re positioning yourself as a key player in future projects. Other organizations will want you on their team because you’ve already shown that you’re not only capable of delivering results but also of effectively sharing them.
Practical tips: how to maximize dissemination and communication
01. Leverage social media
Your organization doesn’t have to reinvent the wheel. When the project shares an update, don’t just retweet or repost it. Add your own twist! Tag the project, share your specific contributions, and highlight the roles of your team members. People love to see behind-the-scenes action, so make it personal. You’re not just sharing project results—you’re telling your own story as part of the project.
02. Update your website
Don’t let your website sit untouched for months. Use it as a platform to communicate what you’re doing in the project. Add a dedicated section for project updates. Explain your role, how the project is advancing, and link out to the project website, CORDIS (the EU’s primary dissemination platform), Zenodo (for sharing data), and publications in journals. This not only shows transparency but keeps your organization at the forefront of what’s happening.
03. Make the most of conferences
Presenting at a conference is one thing, but how you communicate around it is what makes the difference. Don’t wait until after the conference to share a wrap-up post. Build momentum before the event—announce that your team will be speaking, highlight what you’ll be discussing, and create excitement. Afterward, share photos, videos, or key takeaways. A conference doesn’t just happen in a room—it lives on through social media, blog posts, and newsletters.
Your turn to shine
Dissemination and communication in Horizon Europe projects shouldn’t feel like a burden. Think of them as your opportunity to take centre stage, share your wins, and let the world know what your organization is capable of. The best part? By doing so, you’re not only meeting your project requirements—you’re setting yourself up for future success with new clients, collaborators, and talent.
So, next time you’re updating your social media, planning a presentation, or writing a blog post about your project, remember: you’re not just checking a box—you’re creating a world of opportunity.
