This document outlines the key steps involved in developing an EU-funded project from idea to completion, including developing the project idea, building a consortium, writing the proposal, evaluation, contract negotiations, project start, and completion. The main stages are: 1) developing the innovative project idea and checking its fit with funding priorities; 2) building a balanced international consortium; 3) writing the detailed proposal; 4) undergoing rigorous evaluation; 5) negotiating contracts if successful; 6) starting the funded project work; and 7) completing the project objectives over several years. Attention to eligibility rules, evaluation criteria, and management structures is essential to success.