EU Missions are commitments to bring concrete solutions to some of the greatest challenges facing our world. They are an integral part of the Horizon Europe framework programme. Currently there are 5 official mission areas defined:

• Cancer - NCP contact: Sarah Stroobants
• Adaptation to Climate Change - NCP contact: Fernanda Werneck
• Restore our Ocean and Waters - NCP contacts: Pascal Verheye
• Climate-neutral and Smart Cities - NCP contact: Pascal Verheye
• A Soil Deal for Europe - NCP contact: Pascal Verheye

EU Missions were a novelty of the Horizon Europe programme. They have ambitious goals and intend to deliver tangible results by 2030. They aim to deliver impact by putting research and innovation into a new role, combined with new forms of governance and collaboration.

EU Missions are a coordinated effort by the Commission to pool the necessary resources in terms of funding programmes, policies and regulations, as well as other activities. They also aim to mobilise public and private actors, such as EU Member States, regional and local authorities, research institutes, entrepreneurs and investors to create real and lasting impact. Missions will engage with citizens to boost societal uptake of new solutions and approaches.

Each mission will operate as a portfolio of actions – such as research projects, policy measures or even legislative initiatives - to achieve a measurable goal that could not be achieved through individual actions. For each mission area a mission board has been established. The mission board advises the European Commission on the implementation of the mission.

The missions will contribute to the goals of the European Green Deal, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan as well as the Sustainable Development Goals.