How many partners for Research and Innovation Action (RIA)?

Collaborative Horizon Europe RIA projects typically land in the mid-teens for partners, with a common band around 5–18.

This page focuses on Research and Innovation Action (RIA). The calculator below is pre-set to this action type — paste a call identifier to enrich the curated range with medians from funded CORDIS projects on GRANTIBASE. Figures are indicative, not official Commission advice.

Collaborative RIA topics usually require a consortium of at least three independent legal entities from three different EU Member States or Associated Countries — always confirm the specific topic text.

Typical consortium size

Usually 8–15 partners

Common range: 5–18

Collaborative Horizon Europe RIA projects typically land in the mid-teens for partners, with a common band around 5–18.

Eligibility note: Collaborative RIA topics usually require a consortium of at least three independent legal entities from three different EU Member States or Associated Countries — always confirm the specific topic text.
Typical coordinator: Often a university, research organisation, or experienced R&I coordinator with strong scientific leadership.

Larger consortia when

Multi-domain / multi-cluster topics needing coverage across disciplines
Large demonstration or data-collection work packages
Need for broad geographic and stakeholder representation

Smaller consortia when

Focused scientific questions with a tight work plan
Topics that emphasise excellence over breadth
Limited budget that cannot support a large partner list

Indicative guidance based on typical Horizon Europe patterns — not official Commission advice. Always read the specific call conditions.

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Other action types

Compare typical consortium sizes across Horizon Europe, EIC, MSCA, and ERC actions.

Consortium size calculator hub