The Grant

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In the second half of this Implementation Series double episode on communication and dissemination, my two guests Anna-Maria Czarny and Maëla Barçon from Hanse-Parlament move into unfolding dissemination in EU-funded projects. They unpack what dissemination really means, how it differs from communication, and why the two must work in sync. The discussion includes concrete strategies like using targeted knowledge platforms, printed materials for traditional audiences, and tailoring approaches to each project’s specific socio-economic environment.

The episode also explores operational best practices—from organizing partner collaboration and indicators, to planning events that meaningfully present project results. My dear guests share candid stories, such as how a single presentation led to EU-level recognition, and why printing a book might still be your best dissemination tool. The conversation wraps up with useful do's and don'ts, like staying flexible, knowing your target groups, and never sidelining dissemination just because “you’ll do it later.”

Time codes:

00:01:41 The dissemination activities

00:28:38 Synergies

00:31:50 Organisation, collaboration and formalities

00:46:30 Do's and don't's

00:51:41 The toughest challenge

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In this Implementation Series episode, I dig into the nuts and bolts of communication and dissemination within EU-funded projects. Returning guests Anna Maria Czarny and Maëla Barçon, both project managers at Hanse-Parlament, to share their hands-on experiences and practices. We discuss the essential distinctions between communication (engaging audiences and promoting activities) and dissemination (sharing project results and knowledge), while highlighting the common confusion and overlap between the two.

This nice conversation covers everything from classic tools like newsletters, social media, and websites to innovative tactics such as QR code marketing, localized web pages, and dynamic visual content. The episode offers detailed advice on setting up an effective communication strategy, organizing indicators, building partner engagement, and creatively involving target audiences. It's a practical, behind-the-scenes guide for anyone implementing EU-funded projects who wants to go beyond boilerplate templates and make an actual impact.

Time codes:

00:01:41 Introduction

00:05:50 Fly in on communication and dissemination

00:14:49 Communication activities

00:23:14 The communication & dissemination strategy

00:32:42 Communication activities (continued)

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In this episode of The Grant Podcast, I dive into the role of CENSEC, Denmark’s national cluster for defense, space, and security, and how it facilitates access to EU funding, particularly the European Defense Fund (EDF). The conversation highlights the strategic importance of clusters in fostering innovation and collaboration among SMEs, research institutions, and government bodies. We explore the shifting landscape of defense funding in Europe, especially following Denmark’s recent reintegration into EU defense collaborations, and how this has impacted the availability of resources and support structures for organizations seeking EDF funding.

The discussion also underscores the historical reluctance towards defense funding in Denmark anmd Europe and how perceptions are rapidly changing in response to geopolitical threats. The episode further delves into CENSEC’s initiatives, including its EDF Best Practice Group, which brings together grant winners, EU regional offices, the Ministry of Defence, and industry players to share insights and improve Denmark’s performance in securing EDF funding. A key focus is on strategic alliances, where experienced grant recipients mentor newer entrants to enhance participation in EU-funded defense projects. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges of EDF funding—such as its tender-like complexity, stringent co-financing requirements, and the necessity for government backing in applications. Finally, we examine the evolving European defense ecosystem, the increasing role of private-sector investments in security research, and why strengthening Europe’s defense innovation capabilities is now a crucial priority.

Time codes:

00:01:49 Introduction

00:06:32 Fly in on CENSEC and EDF

00:08:51 CENSEC

00:31:37 Facilitating EDF

00:59:50 Recommemdations

01:03:03 The toughest challenge

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In this episode of The Grant, I dive deep into the European university alliances through the lens of YUFE – Young Universities for the Future of Europe. Guest Maria-Valerie Schegk, Secretary General of the YUFE Alliance, shares her insider perspective on how YUFE evolved from a bold vision sparked by Emmanuelle Macron’s Sorbonne speech in 2017 into a vibrant, cross-border collaboration of 10 young universities. From joint degrees and lifelong learning initiatives to engaging citizens and nurturing early-career researchers, YUFE exemplifies how university alliances can drive systemic change in European higher education.

The episode also unpacks the broader landscape of the 65 European university alliances, spotlighting both the opportunities and the immense amount of alliances suddenly operating. We explore the tensions between Erasmus+ funding and the growing ambition of alliances to operate across research and education. Maria-Valerie and I offer candid reflections on funding sustainability, institutional commitment, and the strategic shift from project-based thinking to long-term integration. If you're curious about the future of European universities—and how they’re navigating complex Brussels dynamics—this conversation is for you.

Time codes:

00:01:49 Introduction

00:05:39 Fly in on university alliances

00:11:29 YUFE and Its mission

00:28:27 European universities alliances

00:38:30 The research funding challenge

00:53:44 The role and impact of alliances

01:04:37 Policy and future perspectives

01:16:32 The toughest challenge

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In the final episode of this batch of the Communication Shorts Series, we dive into how to measure and refine social media engagement strategies. We stress that social media is an ongoing conversation rather than a one-time announcement, requiring consistent monitoring and response. The episode explores how to track audience interactions, respond to comments effectively, and use real-time data to adjust communication strategies. The hosts also address ethical considerations when prompting audience engagement, cautioning against superficial tactics that may appear disingenuous.

The discussion extends to community building and conversion optimization. We emphasize the value of turning passive followers into active participants by fostering discussions and encouraging meaningful interactions. The episode also includes insights on how to respond to criticism professionally, the benefits of repurposing past content in timely contexts, and how AI tools can enhance engagement tracking. Ultimately, this episode rounds out the series by offering a strategic approach to maintaining and growing digital influence in the EU funding communication landscape.

Time codes:

00:02:53 Introduction to monitor, analyze and learn

00:03:41 Monitor and respond

00:15:22 Analyze performance

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This episode focuses on crafting compelling, concise, and engaging messages for social platforms. Casper stresses that the first two sentences of a post are crucial, as they determine whether an audience will continue reading. We recommend using attention-grabbing hooks such as surprising statistics, provocative questions, or emotionally compelling statements. The discussion also covers structuring posts with simple, direct language while avoiding technical jargon that might alienate a broader audience. Additionally, we highlight the importance of a clear call to action to drive engagement and conversions.

Beyond text, the episode explores the role of visuals in amplifying a message’s impact. Whether using images, infographics, or videos, we discuss how visuals enhance readability and make posts stand out in crowded feeds. We also touch on the algorithmic advantages of using faces in social media posts and the growing relevance of AI-generated content. The episode concludes with practical tips on how to integrate text and visuals seamlessly to maximize audience retention and interaction.

Time codes:

00:02:54 Introduction to engaging and concise language

00:04:01 Use an engaging hook

00:12:43: Keep it concise

00:16:23 Use visuals

00:25:54 Encourage engagement and include calls to action

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In this episode, we explore how to leverage social platforms effectively to communicate EU funding projects. We discuss the importance of viewing social platforms as tools rather than media, emphasizing strategic audience engagement over mere visibility. Further, we highlight how to use relatable language, compelling narratives, and audience-specific messaging to increase impact. Additionally, the episode underscores the significance of platform-specific content adaptation, where different channels require different tones and messaging styles to resonate with their respective audiences.

The conversation also delves into timing and audience targeting as key factors for effective communication. Casper explains the benefits of strategic posting, emphasizing when professionals engage most actively on platforms like LinkedIn. We also discuss hashtags, how to research effective tags, and the importance of mirroring the communication style of your audience to build credibility. Ultimately, the episode provides a structured approach to making social media a strategic asset rather than a passive broadcasting channel.

Time codes:

00:02:45 Introduction

00:04:36 Fly in on How to get attention on social platforms

00:06:15 Use social platforms as tools rather than media

00:12:23 Know your audience

00:17:57 Timing can be crucial

00:29:51 Use hashtags wisely

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In episode #160 of The Grant Podcast, I kick off the new Widening Series, focusing on the Widening Programme under Horizon Europe. Co-hosting this series is Thomas Brent, a former science policy journalist and Widening expert, now working at CERN. Together, we dive into why the Widening Programme exists, its objectives, and how it addresses the research and innovation gap between high-performing and low-performing EU countries. Our guest for this first episode is Ian Gauci Borda, Malta’s National Contact Point and Programme Committee member, who provides a comprehensive introduction to the programme’s structure, goals, and challenges.

This episode unpacks the origins of Widening, exploring how it was designed to increase participation from underrepresented EU countries in Horizon Europe while maintaining excellence standards. We also examine the political debate surrounding its future, including proposals to move Widening funding to the Cohesion Fund and the resistance from the EU-15 widening countries. Ian shares insights on the impact of Widening so far, key funding instruments like Teaming, Twinning, and ERA Chairs, and how some countries like Cyprus have successfully leveraged the programme to strengthen their research capacities.

Time codes:

00:01:41 Introduction

00:06:04 Fly in on the Widening Programme

00:09:56 Introduction to the Widening Programme

00:20:40 Structure of the Widening programme

00:29:28 Experiences in the programme

00:48:51 Perspectives for the programme

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In episode #159 of The Grant Podcast, we continue our deep dive into EDF proposal writing, focusing on the writing phase, submission process, and key strategic considerations. Joined again by Margherita Volpe from Zabala Innovation Europe, we explore how to structure the nine key sections of an EDF proposal, balancing technical precision, market research, and compliance with EU security policies. We discuss the challenges of coordinating inputs from work package leaders, ensuring strong innovation potential, and aligning with national security priorities.

This episode also delves into common roadblocks in EDF proposal writing, including the diplomatic challenges of consortium collaboration, handling budget structuring, and managing the strict submission process. Margherita shares practical tips on securing Ministry of Defence approvals, avoiding repetition in lengthy proposals, and overcoming industry-specific barriers to cooperation. If you’re working on an EDF funding application, this episode provides crucial insights to help navigate the complexities and submit a competitive proposal.

Time codes:

00:01:43 The writing phase

00:19:40 The sections - one-by-one

00:39:53 Submission

00:43:57 The toughest challenge

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In episode #158 of The Grant Podcast, I take a deep dive into proposal writing for the European Defence Fund (EDF) — one of the most complex and competitive funding schemes in the EU. I have invited Margherita Volpe from Zabala Innovation Europe, to explore the key steps in developing a winning EDF proposal, from concept development and consortium collaboration to budget structuring and securing Ministry of Defence declarations. Given the highly structured nature of EDF calls, we break down what sets them apart from Horizon Europe proposals and why strategic alignment with EU security priorities is crucial for success.

This episode also uncovers the unique challenges of EDF applications, including the strict eligibility criteria, funding mechanisms, and the necessity for transnational cooperation. Margherita shares insider knowledge on navigating EDF’s regulatory landscape, maximizing funding rates, and the critical role of SMEs and midcaps in defence innovation. Whether you’re an experienced grant writer or new to defence funding, this discussion provides essential insights to help you craft a competitive EDF proposal.

Time codes:

00:01:42 Introduction

00:05:24 Fly in on EDF

00:11:02 Preparation for the writing phase

00:36:26 Shaping of proposal concept with consortium