Horizon 2020 is the biggest EU Research and Innovation programme with nearly €80 billion of funding available over 7 years (2014 to 2020). By coupling research and innovation, Horizon 2020 is helping to achieve sustainable growth and jobs in Europe with its emphasis on excellent science, industrial leadership and tackling societal challenges. The goal is to ensure Europe produces world-class science, removes barriers to innovation and makes it easier for the public and private sectors to work together in delivering innovation. Important new feature of the Horizon 2020 is simplification of rules for participation and administrative procedures. New financing instruments are introduced to facilitate innovation uptake by SMEs. Measurements aiming at spreading excellence and widening participation of less research performing countries in European research activities will be implemented and synergies of Horizon 2020 with other financing sources (e.g. structural funds) will be supported.