Good practices for developing successful multi-actor project proposals: Focusing on relational factors
Well‑structured and collaborative relations are essential for success in developing multi-actor projects. A quantitative survey conducted in the PREMIERE project found that actors engaged in Horizon Europe projects believe that relations between consortium partners is the key factor leading to a successful application. How partners communicate, trust each other and define their roles often predicts the outcomes of proposal development more than having a sound initial idea. Six key relational practices drive this success: (1) starting partner recruitment early, (2) combining trusted and new partners, (3) defining roles clearly, (4) ensuring decisive leadership, (5) keeping communication transparent, (6) aligning different personalities and organisational cultures. For academic and practice partners alike, this means choosing partners strategically – involving a mix of experience and fresh perspectives and ensuring that there is time for both advancing the proposal and building trust. Clear roles prevent duplication and gaps, while strong, inclusive leadership keeps momentum and resolves conflicts. To build close relations, communication must avoid professional jargon, should encourage and value all voices and recognise different working styles. Managing personality differences through complementary pairing of partners and use of shared planning and discussion tools strengthens collaboration. These practices cost little but save time, reduce delays and increase funding chances. Implementing them makes projects more relevant, practical and impactful, ensuring innovations work in real-life contexts. In short: put relationships first to turn good ideas into lasting results. For more see 10.5281/zenodo.16778405
Preparing multi-actor projects in a co-creative way
Ongoing | 2023-2027
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Germany, Estonia, France, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Poland, Slovenia, EU member states