Important: Take your time when submitting your proposal to the ERC (do not submit in a rush) – formulate your bold vision clearly and concisely & be prepared for long-term planning.

Optimal planning: the earlier, the better

In order to create a convincing ERC proposal and achieve the best possible results, it is advisable to start early – this gives you enough time to carefully prepare your proposal, review the content and incorporate feedback:

  **Approximately 12–18 months before the submission deadline**

• Define a big research question (”big vision”): ambitious, original, creative, urgently needed, groundbreaking (key questions: What is the problem, What is your solution, Why is it needed now, How, Why you?)

• Find out about ERC calls for proposals and deadlines (eligibility criteria, ERC work programme); talk to colleagues

• Discuss your project with mentors (e.g. at your institute) or experienced ERC grantees

  ** Approximately 6–12 months in advance**

• Sketch out your research idea (including your research question) and critically reflect on the state of the art (blind spots): objectives, novelty value, scientific impact, feasibility

• Select the host institution and organise internal support (e.g. through the EU department, the Leibniz Europe Office, NCP ERC or your network)

• Create an overview of the most important milestones in your CV (publications, awards, leadership experience, other research results)

• If possible, collect initial data or a proof of concept

  **Approximately 3–6 months in advance**
  

• Write Part B1 (5 pages plus CV and track record)

• Develop and write Part B2 (seven pages StG/CoG/AdG, ten pages SyG): detailed scientific concept and feasibility analysis (for Synergy Grants: clearly demonstrate synergy effect)

• Seek & obtain feedback – from colleagues, peers, ERC grantees, the Leibniz Europe Office and the NCP ERC