Open EU Funding Opportunities
Open Call for Food and Agriculture Startup Competition
Deadline: 15th of May 2026
Budget: €3,000,000
The Grow-NY is a global business competition designed to strengthen the food and agriculture innovation cluster in the Grow-NY region by attracting high-growth startups and supporting their expansion within the Upstate economy.
-
Funded by Empire State Development, Grow-NY attracts innovative startups from around the world and integrates them into the region’s expanding startup ecosystem. Up to 20 finalists are selected and matched with experienced mentors, while also receiving customized business development trips to the region to strengthen their growth strategies and local connections.
Finalists pitch their food and agtech business ideas for a chance to win a share of $3 million awarded annually to seven startups, with the top prize set at $1 million. Winning companies are required to implement ambitious plans to create jobs, collaborate with local industry partners, and contribute to a thriving Upstate economy.
The Food and Agriculture Field includes products, technologies, services, or processes related to food production, fuels, fibers, raw materials, and systems that improve development, growth, production, distribution, or processing, as well as innovations that benefit agriculture, food, or related industries.
-
The competition is open to startups worldwide that operate within the defined Food and Agriculture Field and are in the formative stage with scalable business models. Eligible applicants must be registered business entities such as corporations or LLCs and meet at least two qualifying criteria, including being less than seven years old, having a product in testing or pilot production, generating pre-revenue or early revenue, or maintaining a leadership team focused on commercialization and profitability.
UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation
Deadline: 15th of May 2026
Budget: €Not Available
The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships offer international candidates the opportunity to undertake advanced training in archaeology and conservation through a structured internship programme.
-
The focus of this opportunity includes archaeological training through multidisciplinary methods in archaeological practice, conservation studies, capacity building in archaeology, international academic exchange, enhancement of human resource capacities, and promotion of international understanding and cooperation among nations.
This fellowship programme, offered by the Polish National Commission for UNESCO in collaboration with Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, provides selected candidates with a nine-month internship at the Faculty of Archaeology. The programme is designed to strengthen professional skills through a combination of a main course and additional supplementary courses tailored to archaeological practice.
Selected fellows will benefit from free tuition and access to university facilities, along with a monthly allowance provided by the Polish authorities based on their academic qualifications. Additional financial support includes a one-time allowance upon arrival to cover academic and cultural activities. UNESCO will cover international travel expenses, provide health insurance for the duration of the fellowship, and offer a one-time pocket allowance.
Participants are responsible for securing their visas prior to travel, as no additional support is provided for passport or visa-related costs
-
A total of seven fellows will be selected to participate in the programme, which will run from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027. Candidates must hold at least a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, preferably in archaeology or conservation, demonstrate proficiency in English, and be no older than 40 years.
Entries open for THRIVE Global Impact Challenge
Deadline: 15th of May 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge is pleased to announce its applications to identify and support startups developing scalable solutions to critical challenges across agriculture and food systems.
-
The challenge focuses on six key themes that drive innovation toward a sustainable and resilient future, including regenerative agriculture, artificial intelligence automation, animal health and nutrition, climate resilience, water and waste management, and food security and nutrition.
The initiative serves as a platform to accelerate partnerships, unlock capital, and enable global expansion for emerging startups working in the agrifood sector. It highlights the urgent need for innovation in addressing issues such as climate resilience, sustainability, and equitable food access while fostering collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.
Selected finalists will compete for up to $1 million in investment while presenting their solutions at the THRIVE Global Impact Summit in Silicon Valley on October 15. The summit provides a premier platform for agrifood and climate innovation, bringing together global CEOs, policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs. Finalists will receive opportunities including expert pitch coaching, access to networking and partnerships, participation in a virtual pitch day, and global exposure through a dedicated startup showcase.
-
Eligible applicants must be early-stage startups or entrepreneurs at the seed to Series A stage with solutions that demonstrate strong potential for scalability and growth. The challenge welcomes global applicants from any country or region, encouraging diverse perspectives and international collaboration. Applicants are required to align their solutions with one or more of the specified themes and clearly demonstrate measurable climate or environmental impact, such as improvements in sustainability, carbon reduction, biodiversity, or resource efficiency.
Global Initiatives Grant
Deadline: 15th of May 2026
Budget: €1,000
The Global Initiatives Grant Program provides support to innovative projects that strengthen anthropology by enabling scholars to expand its impact and reach broader audiences.
-
The program prioritizes innovative public anthropology projects from 2026–2030 that engage general audiences, address issues such as misinformation, racism, health inequities, and water insecurity, promote curriculum partnerships for K–12 education, build public speaking and media skills among scholars, and develop applied anthropology initiatives that inform policy and public understanding.
These grants are designed to create meaningful impact across the discipline by supporting initiatives that enhance anthropologists’ ability to communicate beyond academic spaces. Projects may take the form of short-term, high-impact interventions responding to emerging challenges or long-term efforts aimed at building sustainable infrastructure for continued public engagement. Successful proposals are expected to demonstrate how they will expand anthropology’s reach while equipping scholars with tools to connect effectively with wider audiences.
The program offers one grant of up to US$80,000 annually, with funding provided on a nonrenewable basis and no fixed duration, although institutional overhead and administrative fees are not covered. They encourage applications from individuals and teams working in regions where anthropology faces challenges or is underrepresented.
-
Applicants must hold a PhD in anthropology or a related field at the time of application and be affiliated with an institution or organization capable of implementing and sustaining the project outcomes. While teams are welcome, the primary applicant must meet the doctoral requirement, and graduate students may participate as co-applicants. Individuals of all nationalities and locations are eligible to apply, but applicants cannot have more than one submission under consideration at the same time and must complete any prior grant obligations before reapplying.
UK INTEGRATED SECURITY FUND ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
Deadline: 15th of May 2026
Budget: €1,500,000
The British Embassy Kyiv invites proposals from non-profit organisations for project work under the UK’s Integrated Security Fund (ISF) for the period from 1 July 2026 to 31 March 2027. As part of the Security and Defence Reform (SDR) programming, the UK government will provide up to £1,500,000 to support national level policy, coordination and implementation on Veterans’ affairs in Ukraine. T
-
The UK is looking to fund one single project that covers most, if not all, of the above goals. Bids are welcome from single organisations or from coalitions brought together for this purpose. The organisation(s) will be expected to work closely with other donors and structures that are supporting the Ministry of Veterans Affairs and/or engaging in this space. This will need to include working closely with the EBRD Reform Support Team supporting MoVA, and Canadian funded capacity support to the Ministry over the next three years. A flexible and agile approach will be necessary to align to the political context.
Actions must take place in Ukraine.
-
Only non-profit organisations are invited to bid. This call for bids is open for International Organisations (IOs), International non-governmental organisations (INGOs) and local civil society organisations (CSOs), that can also apply in consortium of few CSOs.
Call for Proposals: Displaced Livelihoods Initiative (Round V)
Deadline: 15th of May 2026
Budget: €500,000
The Displaced Livelihoods Initiative (DLI) has launched its fifth and final competitive funding round to support rigorous research and evidence use aimed at improving sustainable livelihoods for displaced populations and host communities.
-
The initiative focuses on five priority research areas: resilience, wage employment, entrepreneurship, social cohesion, inclusion and norms, and rights and regulations, all centered on enhancing sustainable livelihoods for refugees, internally displaced persons, stateless populations, and host communities.
The round also emphasizes evidence-to-policy engagement, requiring grantees to actively collaborate with partners, produce accessible summaries, and participate in dissemination events.
DLI offers multiple funding categories to support different stages of research and engagement. Exploratory Grants provide up to $10,000 for relationship-building, descriptive analysis, and early data development. Pilot Studies offer up to $75,000 to support design, measurement, and implementation before full evaluations. Full Studies provide up to $250,000 for rigorous impact evaluations with strong partnerships and defined research designs. Infrastructure and Public Goods grants also offer up to $250,000 to develop datasets, tools, and shared resources for future research.
In addition, Evidence Use Grants provide up to $20,000 specifically for refugee-led organizations and researchers with lived experience to translate research into policy, advocacy, and practice. Conference Travel Grants offer up to $4,000 to support participation in key academic and policy events, helping amplify the voices of those with lived experience of displacement.
For more information, visit IPA.
-
This final round builds on previous funding cycles while introducing new pathways that prioritize inclusion and representation. A key addition is dedicated funding for researchers with lived experience of displacement and refugee-led organizations, ensuring their perspectives are integrated into research and policy engagement.
ADVANCING ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNANCE AND PARTICIPATORY DEMOCRACY IN THAILAND (2026)
Deadline: 18th of May 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is: to contribute to the promotion and protection of human rights and democracy in Thailand, with a focus on strengthening democratic governance, inclusive participation, and the rule of law, while promoting the well-being and dignity of all individuals, particularly vulnerable and marginalised groups.
-
The specific objective of this call for proposals is: to strengthen democratic governance and promote the realisation of fundamental rights in Thailand.
Actions must take place in Thailand.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a specific type of organisation such as Civil Society Organisation.
MALAYSIA – CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS: ENHANCING CSOS’ CONTRIBUTION TO GOVERNANCE AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESSES (2026)
Deadline: 18th of May 2026
Budget: €4,937,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is to strengthen civil society organisations (CSOs) as independent development actors to contribute to governance and development process in Malaysia, with a view to contribute to the attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs).
-
The specific objective(s) of this call for proposals is to promote the enabling environment for civil society organisations and enhance their capacity to better contribute to and meaningfully participate in development and domestic policies process of Malaysia, addressing the three key dimensions of sustainable development – social, environmental and economic.
The priorities of this call for proposals are:
1) Green Alliances and Partnerships
2) Alliances for Sustainable Growth and Jobs
3) Governance, Peace and Security, Human Development
Actions must take place in Malaysia.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a specific type of organisation, such as: Civil Society Organisation and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
SUPPORT TO MEDIA ORGANISATIONS IN KOSOVO
Deadline: 18th of May 2026
Budget: €1,500,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is to foster enabling environment for media freedom and pluralism.
-
Lot 1 Public Interest Journalism & Investigative Reporting
Lot 2 Linguistic Diversity in Media
Actions must take place in Kosovo.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a civil society organisation and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
SUPPORT SCHEME SUPPORT TO CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS IN KOSOVO
Deadline: 18th of May 2026
Budget: €2,500,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is to reinforce the capacities and the resilience of local civil society to carry out their activities effectively, promote gender responsive and inclusive policies, and address issues related to access to justice. This call for proposals is divided in 3 Lots, each with its own specific objective and priorities.
-
Within the specific objective in each Lot, the proposed actions may address one or more of the priorities of the Lot.
Lot 1 Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI)
Lot 2 Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE)
Lot 3 Access to Justice
Actions must take place in Kosovo.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a civil society organisation and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
SUPPORT TO JUSTICE, FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND SOCIAL COHESION IN SYRIA
Deadline: 18th of May 2026
Budget: €13,350,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is to contribute to the sustainable and equitable development of communities in Syria and to the full enjoyment of all human rights by all.
-
The specific objective(s) of this call for proposals are:
Lot 1 Access to affordable justice for all in Syria
Lot 2 Promotion of transitional justice processes in Syria
Lot 3 Promotion of and support to media freedom and pluralism in Syria
Lot 4 Promotion of social cohesion in Syria
Actions must take place in Syria.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organisation, public sector operator, local authority and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
NDICI HR: “HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE MINING SECTOR IN BOLIVIA”
Deadline: 19th of May 2026
Budget: €1,300,000
The overall objective of this call for proposals is: To strengthen the protection of the rights of communities affected by mining, guaranteeing their health, access to a healthy environment, and effective justice.
-
The specific objectives of this call for proposals are:
Objective 1. To strengthen the institutionalization of effective access to justice in the mining sector at the national and territorial levels with the public, private, and civil society actors involved in this sector, through the implementation of structural mechanisms within the mining sector.
Objective 2. To measurably and verifiably reduce the negative impacts on human rights and the environment through the implementation of two complementary pilot projects.
Actions must take place in Bolivia.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
Research Grants for Health, Food, and Natural Medicine
Deadline: 20th of May 2026
Budget: €Not available
Ekhagastiftelsen provides funding to support research and development that contributes to better public health through healthier food, natural medicines, complementary healing practices, and lifestyle improvements.
-
Ekhagastiftelsen supports research that enhances food quality through organic and toxin-free agriculture, in accordance with IFOAM principles. This includes projects that explore growing crops organically without pesticides, improving food preparation and storage, and analyzing food quality. The foundation also funds studies on the role of diet in disease prevention and bodily resistance, examining which types of food and dietary patterns best support health. Research promoting cleaner environments, more active outdoor lifestyles, and overall healthier living is also supported. Complementary and natural medicine, focusing on utilizing the body’s innate healing abilities and minimizing artificial chemicals, is a priority, with emphasis on physical health and bodily functions over psychological aspects.
Grants exceeding 250,000 SEK per year are paid in either four-month or six-month installments depending on the total amount, and payments to foreign recipients are made every six months. Unclaimed funds within two years of a project’s conclusion are revoked for other projects.
-
Applications are accepted globally from universities, research institutes, foundations, associations, companies, and private individuals, with a recommendation for collaboration with Swedish institutions for applicants outside Europe, Canada, or the USA. Scholarships are mainly granted for research-related projects rather than basic university education.
CIVIL SOCIETY, MEDIA, HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY PROGRAMMES FOR BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 2025-2026
Deadline: 20th of May 2026
Budget: €5,700,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is to strengthen participatory democracy, protection of human rights and the EU approximation process in Bosnia and Herzegovina through an enhanced contribution by civil society and media.
-
The specific objective(s) of this call for proposals are:
· To protect and empower individuals and CSOs to contribute to the full enjoyment by everyone of all human rights, be they civil, political, economic, social or cultural rights.
· Strengthened the role of CSOs and media in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU integration process by building an empowered, well-informed, and coordinated CSO and media sector that actively contributes to policy reforms, democratic governance, and socio-economic development.
· Empowered individuals to fully enjoy all human rights—civil, political, economic, social, and cultural, reinforcing human rights frameworks and supporting democracy in the digital age.
Specifically, this year’s call for proposal (CfP) under the CSF focuses on the following priority areas of support:
· Lot 1: Media,
· Lot 2: Rule of Law,
· Lot 3: Reconciliation through sport and culture,
· Lot 4: Civil Society (CSO) Resource Centre
· Lot 5: Human rights and democratic values.
Actions must take place in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organisation including civil society organisations and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
GRANTS FROM EKHAGA FOUNDATION
Deadline: 20th of May 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
The Ekhaga Foundation (Ekhagastiftelsen) was founded by Gösta Videgård in 1944 and since then has supported research in ecological agriculture and biological medicine.
-
The main focus should be on scientific research and primarily applied research. Basic research in areas such as for example molecular biology and genetic research can be supported if it clarifies causal relationships that can be considered to be of direct value for further research related to foundation’s purpose. In addition to funding scientific research, the foundation can, to a lesser extent, grant funding for projects designed to have research findings put into practice, for example, training activities, documentation projects, book projects or conferences. Such applications must contribute to a development in line with the foundation’s purpose. The foundation also welcomes applications for planning grants. These can be for organizing seminars/workshops on the issue that the applicant wants to study, in order to get a better basis for a definite application (which can also be directed to other funding bodies) and as part of a dialogue between scientists and the scientific advisory council.
The Foundation does not have any defined focus countries. Funding is provided to research projects implemented anywhere across the globe.
-
Applications from all over the world are welcome (however, for applications from outside Europe or North America applicants need to have a cooperation with a Swedish institution). They do not have any formal requirements that applications can only come from institutions (universities, colleges, research institutions, etc.).
Call for Social Projects International Cooperation 2026
Deadline: 20th of May 2026
Budget: €100,000
The International Cooperation is inviting grant applications to support social innovation initiatives that reduce poverty and inequality in vulnerable communities across Africa, Asia, and Latin America by generating sustainable development opportunities.
-
The focus areas of this opportunity include socioeconomic development and entrepreneurship through strengthening local economic systems, business creation, entrepreneurship promotion, and skills training; community health and well-being through improved primary healthcare services, maternal and child health access, disease prevention and treatment, safe drinking water, sanitation, and health workforce training; and education and training through innovative learning initiatives and technical and professional education to improve employment opportunities and skills development.
The program promotes the use of social innovation tools such as listening, co-creation, prototyping, and scaling to encourage community participation and foster equitable and sustainable development in targeted regions.
The initiative provides funding of up to 50,000 euros for projects with a duration of 18 months. It supports non-profit entities and social economy organisations, including foundations, associations, and cooperatives, that are legally registered in Spanish or Portuguese territory and whose mission includes international cooperation for development.
The call is designed to strengthen community-driven solutions and promote systemic change by empowering organisations to implement sustainable and impactful development initiatives in disadvantaged regions.
-
Eligible applicants must demonstrate annual income of less than 2 million euros for 2025, at least three years of documented experience in international cooperation activities, and the presence of a local partner in the country where the project will be implemented. These requirements ensure that supported projects have both organizational capacity and strong local collaboration.
Internet Society Foundation announces Research Grant Program
Deadline: 22nd of May 2026
Budget: €500,000
The Internet Society Foundation has opened applications for its Research Grant Program to support innovative research that enhances understanding of the Internet and its societal impact.
-
The program focuses on four key thematic areas: Inclusive Internet, which addresses structural barriers such as income, gender, geography, and digital literacy that limit access; Greening the Internet, which explores the environmental impact of Internet infrastructure and promotes sustainability and climate resilience; Measuring Meaningful Connectivity, which examines how connectivity enables real participation in economic and social life beyond basic access; and A Trustworthy Internet, which investigates reliability, security, accountability, and emerging risks affecting user trust across digital networks.
The Research Grant Program aims to fund forward-thinking projects that generate practical and open knowledge to inform public policy, industry decisions, and technology development. It supports both individual researchers and organizations worldwide, encouraging diverse and collaborative approaches, particularly from underrepresented groups and the Global Majority.
With funding ranging from US$200,000 for independent researchers to US$500,000 for organizations, the program seeks applied research that addresses real-world Internet challenges and contributes to building a more inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital ecosystem. Over the past five years, the initiative has supported more than 70 projects with over US$22 million in funding, producing impactful outcomes in policy, technology, and global collaboration.
-
Applicants are expected to propose novel, intersectional, and collaborative research aligned with the program’s thematic priorities, ensuring that findings are openly accessible and contribute to meaningful improvements in how the Internet is governed and experienced globally. Ethical compliance is required for research involving human or animal subjects, and applicants must meet eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications and relevant research experience.
ILLUMINATING CLIMATE SOLUTIONS
Deadline: 25th of May 2026
Budget: €100,000
The National Geographic Society and The Climate Pledge will support a global community of Explorers producing a portfolio of projects focused on climate resilience and solutions, creating a stunning storytelling legacy that will inspire business leaders and policymakers to take action toward a better world. This funding opportunity is open to both existing Explorers and those not yet part of the Explorer community.
-
Potential stories may be related to, but not limited to:
· Climate & Energy Transition: Carbon-free energy; Decarbonization
· Nature & Land Systems: Water stewardship; Nature-based solutions (biodiversity, restoration, adaptation); Regenerative agriculture; Food systems
· Built & Human Systems: Built environment; Climate migration; Public health; Social adaptation
· Adaptation in Extreme Weather: Hurricanes, heat waves, wildfires, and floods
The National Geographic Society specifically encourages applicants from around the world. However, as a result of changes in Chinese law effective January 1, 2017, the National Geographic Society is unable to support new grantee work in mainland China.
-
Storytellers who have lived in or have significant experience working in the communities where their proposed stories are focused, or demonstrate established collaborative relationships with local organizations and stakeholders in these communities will be prioritized.
HUMAN RIGHTS DEMOCRACY AND CSO SUPPORT TO SRI LANKA AND THE MALDIVES
Deadline: 25th of May 2026
Budget: €2,487,500
The different lots are:
Lot 1: NDICI – Global Europe Human Rights & Democracy Thematic Programme 2025-2027
The global objective of Lot 1 of this call for proposals is to increase protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedoms, democracy and the rule of law worldwide.
-
Actions can take place in Sri Lanka and Maldives.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organisation and (3) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
EURES TARGETED MOBILITY SCHEME (TMS)
Deadline: 26th of May 2026
Budget: €17,000,000
The overall objective of this call for proposals is to ensure around 4 000 placements for mobile candidates, in particular of young people. The action targets the filling of hard-to-fill vacancies and labour shortages as identified in national/EU labour market studies or other data sources.
-
The action, being strongly result-oriented, may contribute to:
· addressing labour market needs, in particular tackling labour markets’ imbalances, as well as labour and skills shortages;
· improving the conditions for jobseekers and workers to exercise their right of freedom of movement across the EU;
· filling of hard-to-fill vacancies (in the form of either jobs, traineeships or apprenticeships), notably where specific labour shortcomings have been identified;
· enhancing the service catalogue of the EURES organisations;
· fostering public-private partnerships within EURES.
Actions must take place in EU member states and associated countries.
-
Eligible are legal entities (public or private bodies) established in eligible countries.
TOGO – CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2026 – THEMATIC PROGRAMS: HUMAN RIGHTS AND CIVIL SOCIETY
Deadline: 26th of May 2026
Budget: €3,212,999
The overall objective of this call for proposals is to promote human rights, gender equality, and the socio-economic empowerment of women, youth, and children by strengthening the role of CSOs and independent organizations in improving essential services, social cohesion, and respect for fundamental rights, particularly in prisons.
-
Lot 1: Thematic Programme – Human Rights (HR)
Lot 2: Thematic Programme – Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)
Actions must take place in Togo.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organisation, public sector operator, local authority and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
COMMUNITIES LED ACTIONS GRANT PROGRAM
Deadline: 27th of May 2026
Budget: €7,500,000
The European Union is offering a significant funding opportunity through Community-Led Actions (CLA), providing grants to support projects focused on environmental protection, sustainable development, and innovation in the Mediterranean basin.
-
Grants will be awarded as lump sums to cover personnel and direct costs such as goods and services, equipment, travel, subcontracting, and dissemination activities. Payments will be linked to project milestones, ensuring accountability and progress throughout the project duration.
Applicants are required to select a single primary Pillar for their project’s focus. Pillar #1 focuses on protecting and restoring marine and freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity. Pillar #2 aims to prevent and eliminate pollution of oceans, seas, and waters. Pillar #3 targets the creation of a sustainable, carbon-neutral, and circular blue economy. Each proposal must clearly outline the project’s challenge, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes to achieve the goals of the chosen Pillar.
A total of €7 million is available under this initiative, with individual project funding ranging from €200,000 to €1.4 million and a maximum of €500,000 allocated per third party. At least five projects will be funded, each running for up to 24 months. Payment installments will be distributed as 40% pre-financing, 45% interim, and 15% upon acceptance of the final report, providing financial stability while incentivising project completion.
The open calls are designed for communities of actors within EU Member States or Associated Countries. Eligible applicants include regional and local authorities, NGOs, associations, research and educational institutions, and companies, including SMEs, operating in the Mediterranean basin. All activities must take place in this region, and each organisation may submit only one proposal per call. Applications must be submitted in English, and all applicants must comply with EU sanctions and restrictive measures.
This initiative provides a valuable opportunity for Mediterranean-based organisations to collaborate, implement innovative solutions, and make a measurable impact on the region’s environmental sustainability and blue economy development.
-
Projects must be submitted by consortia of at least two legal entities representing a Mission community. Targeted beneficiaries include ports and marinas piloting zero-discharge solutions, technology developers, municipalities and regional authorities demonstrating pollution-prevention technologies, aquaculture and aquafeed producers developing climate-smart solutions, conservation organisations and scientists deploying biodiversity monitoring and restoration tools, locally based companies and startups developing circular economy solutions, as well as research and educational institutions.
TRANSITION AGENDAS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Deadline: 27th of May 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
The European Union is offering funding opportunities through the Transition Agenda Development (TA) initiative, targeting projects that advance sustainable practices, environmental protection, and governance in the Mediterranean basin.
-
Applicants are required to select a single primary Pillar for their project’s focus, and the entire proposal—including the project’s challenge, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes—must be explicitly designed to achieve the goals of the chosen Pillar. Pillar #1 focuses on protecting and restoring marine and freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity, Pillar #2 aims to prevent and eliminate pollution of oceans, seas, and waters, and Pillar #3 supports the creation of a sustainable, carbon-neutral, and circular blue economy.
Grants will be awarded as lump sums to cover personnel and direct costs such as goods and services, equipment, travel, subcontracting, and dissemination activities. Payments will be made in installments tied to project milestones and deliverables to ensure progress and accountability.
A total of €1 million is available under this call, with funding of up to €100,000 per project and a maximum of €100,000 per third party. At least ten projects will be funded, each running for up to 12 months. This program is designed to engage communities of actors within EU Member States or Associated Countries, focusing on entities that are established in these regions and active in the Mediterranean basin. All activities must take place within the Mediterranean region, and applications must be submitted in English, complying with EU sanctions and restrictive measures.
-
Eligible applicants include regional and local authorities, NGOs, associations, research and education institutions, and companies, including SMEs, operating in the eligible geographical areas. Each organisation may submit only one proposal per call. Projects can be implemented by individual legal entities or consortia of up to two entities representing a Mission community.
Targeted TA beneficiaries are typically organisations involved in policy, governance, and stakeholder coordination. These include regional and local authorities, NGOs focused on policy advocacy, research institutions conducting legal harmonisation studies, and associations developing multi-stakeholder dialogue frameworks. All projects must include at least one partner from a Mediterranean country, ensuring regional relevance and impact.
This initiative provides a strategic opportunity for Mediterranean-based organisations to influence policy, strengthen governance, and implement sustainable solutions that support the ecological, economic, and social development of the region.
THE EUROPEAN UNION – THE MEDIA FREEDOM HUB
Deadline: 28th of May 2026
Budget: €3,000,000
The overall goal of this preparatory action is to continue the activities of the ongoing Free Media Hub EAST project, i.e. to sustain and improve existing financial and other kinds of support to exiled independent media from Russia, Belarus, as well as media from Ukraine that has relocated in the EU, and to foster the coordination and consolidation of a pan-European platform or network of media hubs to promote the preservation of a pluralistic media environment.
-
The following types of activities are eligible under this call for proposals:
· research and mapping of the needs and challenges of independent newsrooms and professional journalists who have relocated their operations to a Member State;
· financial support to third parties (see section 6), which must be the most significant part of the project (minimum 70% of the total EU funding).
· strengthening media hubs and local support networks to provide practical support to journalists and other media practitioners, focusing on viable business models and innovative technical and content format solutions in order to reach audiences as well as on the sharing of best practices and networking;
· training activities for media hubs as well as for media organisations and journalists;
Actions must take place in EU member states and Ukraine.
The EU co-financing is limited to a maximum of 95% of the total eligible costs. They expect to fund one project.
-
Eligibility is limited to legal entities (public or private bodies). The call is open to legal entities established in the EU, in particular non-profit
organisations; international organisations; public bodies; research centres.
Entries open for Democracy’s Firewall Hackathon
Deadline: 28th of May 2026
Budget: €10,000
The Democracy’s Firewall Hackathon invites multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions that counter online disinformation while safeguarding democratic values and freedom of expression.
-
The hackathon focuses on strengthening democratic resilience against evolving threats, promoting innovation beyond traditional democratic approaches, balancing freedom of expression with counter-disinformation efforts in line with human rights standards, generating actionable ideas aligned with the New Democratic Pact and Reykjavik Principles for Democracy, fostering collaboration across sectors and engaging the public in meaningful discussions about the future of democracy.
The initiative highlights the growing threat of online disinformation, which continues to erode trust, intensify polarisation, and influence electoral processes. In response, participants are encouraged to design scalable and impactful solutions that expose fake accounts and disinformation networks, improve transparency in content moderation systems, expand access to reliable and diverse information, and strengthen public resilience through education and critical thinking.
-
Teams are expected to be multidisciplinary and are encouraged to reflect gender diversity. Selected participants will be invited to Strasbourg, with travel, accommodation, and meals covered for the event duration. The hackathon is open to teams composed of individuals residing in Council of Europe member states
Strengthening Civil Society for Accountability and Transparency (Malawi)
Deadline: 29th of May 2026
Budget: €2,325,500
The European Commission is supporting a call for proposals aimed at reinforcing the role of civil society organisations as key drivers of accountability, transparency, and inclusive governance in Malawi.
-
he programme focuses on strengthening civil society organisations as independent actors essential for promoting accountability and transparency, with specific objectives under two lots: promoting accountability and transparency at the local level by enhancing CSO capacity to monitor and contribute to development policies, spearheading advocacy and awareness efforts, increasing citizen engagement in policy dialogue, fostering collaboration between stakeholders, and safeguarding civic space; and supporting independent media for good governance by improving media capacity and training, strengthening investigative journalism, promoting fact-checking and countering disinformation, supporting implementation of access to information laws, encouraging legal and regulatory reforms, and enhancing coordination among media actors.
The priorities include promoting inclusive and accountable governance through stronger civil society participation and enhancing transparency by building the capacities of local media actors. Cross-cutting themes emphasize gender equality, rights-based approaches, and youth engagement.
The European Union’s engagement with civil society is rooted in its long-standing commitment to fostering democratic governance and sustainable development. Through strategic frameworks such as the EU Roadmap for Engagement with Civil Society and the Thematic Programme for Civil Society Organisations, the EU continues to support CSOs as vital contributors to policy dialogue, implementation, and oversight. This programme aligns with broader development goals, particularly advancing inclusive institutions and strengthening partnerships for sustainable development.
This call also complements ongoing EU-supported initiatives in Malawi, including programmes focused on improving public financial management, reducing corruption, and strengthening the relationship between citizens and the state. By reinforcing the capacity of CSOs and media actors, the initiative seeks to enhance transparency, responsiveness, and service delivery at both local and national levels.
The total indicative funding available under this call is EUR 2,325,500, distributed across two lots. Lot 1, focusing on local accountability and transparency, has an allocation of EUR 1,800,000, while Lot 2, dedicated to independent media, is allocated EUR 525,500. Grant sizes vary by lot, with substantial funding aimed at supporting impactful, large-scale interventions.
-
Eligible applicants include non-profit legal entities such as non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations, advocacy groups, research institutions, and foundations. Applicants must be established in Malawi, an EU Member State, or other eligible countries and must demonstrate the capacity to directly manage and implement proposed actions.
Open Call for International Grant Program 2026
Deadline: 30th of May 2026
Budget: €100,000
The International Grant Program offers to foster regional cooperation by supporting initiatives that encourage knowledge exchange and collaborative problem-solving among countries across Asia.
-
This grant program focuses on fostering collaboration among countries and regions including Japan, encouraging participants to work together on pressing regional issues. It promotes initiatives that emphasize shared understanding and cooperation, helping participants move from learning to empathy through meaningful engagement.
Projects funded under this program can be implemented over one or two years, with a maximum budget of 5 million yen for one-year projects and 10 million yen for two-year projects. Applicants are required to carefully plan their budgets in accordance with the specified expense categories and within the defined financial limits. The overall program has a total budget of 80 million yen.
The program encourages innovative and challenging proposals that address common regional challenges with creative and flexible thinking. It supports efforts that bring together diverse perspectives and expertise to develop solutions that can benefit multiple countries and communities.
-
Eligibility is limited to teams composed of diverse members such as practitioners, researchers, creators, policymakers, and media professionals. These teams must demonstrate relevant experience and expertise in addressing the issues they propose to tackle and must be based across multiple countries and regions within the program’s target areas.
Grants to Support Reducing Nuclear Dangers
Deadline: 30th of May 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
Applicants are now invited to submit applications for innovative projects aimed at reducing nuclear dangers through improved risk understanding, governance, and strategic mitigation.
-
The focus areas of this call include addressing escalation, crisis instability, and multi-domain risk by tackling core drivers of nuclear risk such as regional proliferation, nuclear strategic stability, conflict mitigation, misperception and deterrence ambiguity, crisis communication, escalation dynamics, command and control vulnerabilities, disruptive technologies, and cross-domain entanglement across nuclear, space, AI, cyber, and other arenas. Strengthening verification, monitoring, and risk transparency to detect, assess, forecast, or monitor nuclear-relevant developments in ways that improve decision-making and reduce uncertainty. Enhancing governance, institutional capacity, and expert talent to support sustained and effective nuclear risk reduction.
The consortium offers two funding tiers. Small grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for up to two years are designed to support focused, time-bound efforts that test, refine, or advance promising approaches to reducing nuclear risk, pilot new ideas, explore emerging challenges, or develop targeted solutions with clear pathways to impact. Large grants ranging from $200,000 to $1,000,000 for up to three years support larger, multi-year efforts that demonstrate scale, feasibility, and a clear pathway from activities to meaningful reductions in nuclear risk.
This opportunity aims to accelerate innovative and scalable solutions that reduce nuclear risk, enhance global security, and strengthen the capacity of institutions and experts to anticipate and mitigate emerging nuclear threats.
-
Eligible applicants include think tanks, university-based centers, independent NGOs, individual researchers, and equivalent institutions. Collaborative applications are encouraged when the roles of participating organizations are well-aligned and complementary, with a designated lead organization responsible for grant delivery and reporting. Early-career and mid-career applicants are particularly encouraged to apply, especially under the small-grant tier if submitting as individuals.
Strengthening Community-based Coastal and Riverine Stewardship
Deadline: 31st of May 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund invites innovative, community-driven projects aimed at conserving and restoring coastal and riverine ecosystems while empowering local stewardship.
-
The mission of the fund is to support efforts that enhance understanding and protection of oceans and coastal environments while fostering environmental stewardship in regions connected to expedition routes and beyond. They seek passionate project leaders with strong ties to their communities who can design initiatives rooted in local needs and knowledge systems. These ecosystems are increasingly threatened by climate change, unsustainable practices, and extreme environmental stressors, making community participation essential for long-term sustainability.
Funding is available up to USD 20,000 for Level I grants and up to USD 75,000 for Level II grants. Level I is intended for early-career individuals seeking to establish themselves and gain leadership experience, while Level II supports more advanced applicants or those pursuing larger-scale projects. Project durations are limited to one year for Level I and two years for Level II, with a start date no earlier than February 1, 2027.
Beyond funding, selected applicants gain access to the National Geographic Explorer Community, future funding opportunities, networking platforms, and potential visibility through media features and speaking engagements linked to expedition programs.
Eligible projects must primarily address coastal or riverine ecosystem stewardship and be led by individuals with demonstrated experience or strong community connections in the project area. The project design must reflect local priorities and include continuous collaboration with communities, including Indigenous and descendant groups.
-
Applicants must select “Science” as the primary discipline and possess relevant academic or professional experience in conservation or ecosystem-related research, though no minimum degree is required. Projects should be located in regions aligned with expedition destinations such as Asia, the Arctic, Patagonia, the Pacific Northwest, and others. Applicants must be over 18 years old and willing to share project insights for educational outreach.
DayOne Accelerator Program for Healthtech Startups
Deadline: 31st of May 2026
Budget: €100,000
The DayOne Accelerator is seeking applications to accelerate their growth by developing innovative solutions at the intersection of healthtech and pharmaceutical research and development.
-
The programme focuses on healthtech and techbio solutions enabling pharma R&D, including AI-aided drug discovery, digital or imaging biomarkers, diagnostics, clinical trial protocol optimization, patient screening and stratification, and decentralized clinical trials with remote monitoring, while also emphasizing value proposition development, industry collaboration, and accelerated business growth.
To support participation, ventures may receive up to CHF 1,000 to cover part of their travel and accommodation costs for the initial bootcamp, depending on their country of origin and at the discretion of Basel Area Business & Innovation.
The DayOne Accelerator is a three-month hybrid programme based in Basel, Switzerland, recognized as a leading life sciences innovation hub in Europe. It is designed to support high-potential international startups in refining their value proposition, connecting with key industry players, and advancing their growth within the pharma ecosystem.
Participants benefit from direct access to pharma industry experts and key players in the Basel area, along with hands-on mentorship to refine their pharma-specific value proposition. The programme also provides exposure to Basel’s life sciences ecosystem, offering opportunities to engage with global pharmaceutical leaders.
Selected startups may gain access to additional post-accelerator support, including non-dilutive funding of up to CHF 50,000, personalized support of equal value, and up to 12 months of office space. The accelerator itself is equity-free and fee-free, allowing participants to maintain independence while scaling their ventures.
-
The programme targets founders and teams operating in healthtech and techbio who are aiming to collaborate or partner with pharmaceutical companies. It is open to startups at the pre-seed to Series A stage that have raised less than 10 million USD in dilutive funding. Individuals and teams from any country are eligible to apply, whether or not they have formally registered a company.
SKÅL INTERNATIONAL SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AWARDS
Deadline: 31st of May 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards are geared towards enhancing the visibility and grant recognition to entities from the Travel and Tourism industry. The Awards are open annually to all public and private sector companies, educational institutions, NGOs, and government agencies. All sustainable operations and activities must be implemented by the company, NGO or agency applying for the award. Projects that are yet not in operation are not eligible.
-
Entry submission can be made in one of the following categories:
§ Community and Government Projects;
§ Countryside and Biodiversity;
§ Educational programmes and Media;
§ Major Tourist Attractions;
§ Marine and Coastal Rural Accommodation;
§ Tour Operators-Travel Agents;
§ Tourist Transport; and
§ Urban Accommodation.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
Eligible are public and private sector companies, educational institutions, NGOs, and government agencies.
ANRF MAHA Leapfrog Demonstrators for Societal Innovation in India
Deadline: 1st of June 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
Applications are now open for the ANRF MAHA Leapfrog Demonstrators for Societal Innovation Program to catalyse bold, integrated and scalable solutions to address the country’s most pressing societal challenges through research and innovation. The program focuses on reimagining agriculture with resilience and sustainability, radical energy efficiency, reimagining transportation and safety, addressing air, water, and industrial pollution, promoting waste-to-wealth initiatives, developing smarter infrastructure, biodiversity preservation and monetization, skilling and jobs, community health, sports science and physical literacy, and economic inclusion through AI-enabled digital literacy and responsive financial products.
-
The initiative is designed to support projects that go beyond incremental improvements by demonstrating transformative solutions at scale. These Leapfrog Demonstrators validate technical, economic, and social hypotheses under real-world conditions, ensuring that innovations are not confined to laboratory settings but are deployable and impactful across communities and industries.
The program also emphasizes the importance of demonstrating real-world usability and adoption across stakeholders such as farmers, communities, public agencies, and industry players. Projects are expected to provide evidence of scalability through field-level implementations and establish economic viability by optimizing cost and performance for sustainable large-scale deployment.
Funding support is available under two categories. Large projects can have a total budget ranging from ₹25 crores to over ₹100 crores, with ANRF contributing up to ₹50 crores, while medium projects range from ₹10 crores to ₹25 crores with ANRF support up to ₹12.5 crores. Both categories require a minimum of 50% cost sharing in cash from non-ANRF sources, and projects can span up to 60 months.
-
Eligibility criteria specify that each proposal must be led by a Lead Institution headed by a Lead Principal Investigator who holds a regular position in an academic institution, national research laboratory, or a recognized not-for-profit research institution or Section 8 company aligned with the program’s goals. The Lead PI must be an Indian citizen or OCI holder and possess a Ph.D. in relevant disciplines or a professional medical degree. Those nearing superannuation may apply with a Co-PI who has at least five years of service remaining, and certain fellows are eligible to participate as Co-PIs.
Thrive Grant for Plant-Based Food Systems and Sustainable Alternatives
Deadline: 1st of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Thrive Grant supports organizations outside the United States working to advance sustainable, plant-based food systems and alternatives to industrial animal agriculture.
-
The Thrive Grant offers funding ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 USD and is primarily designed for mid-size or larger organizations with a proven track record of success. Priority is given to organizations that have previously received funding, although new applicants may still be considered if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Organizations applying must demonstrate a strong and positive reputation within their communities and among stakeholders, aligning with Thrive Philanthropy’s safe space policy. The grant is intended for non-profit organizations, particularly those with an annual budget under $500,000 USD. While individuals are not eligible for this grant, they may explore the Seed Grant as an alternative opportunity.
The program explicitly excludes projects that involve or support animal exploitation in any form, including animal farming, use of animal-based products, or farmed animal welfare campaigns. It also does not support cellular agriculture initiatives, food aid programs such as food banks or meal distributions, or projects connected to military or police institutions. Additionally, for-profit businesses, political activities, tuition or academic fees, and projects based in the United States or affiliated with large international organizations are not eligible.
-
Eligible applicants must be based outside the United States and should not be international chapters of U.S.-based organizations.
Innovative Astronomy Projects to Promote Sustainable Development
Deadline: 1st of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) invites applicants to submit innovative project ideas that use astronomy as a tool to address sustainable development challenges.
-
The program supports projects that use astronomy to address development challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, including sustainable socio-economic development, science diplomacy and collaboration, knowledge and skills development, addressing inequality, and technology applications derived from astronomy, along with flagship areas such as astrotourism for development, astronomy for mental health, and astronomy knowledge and skills for development.
Selected projects receive financial support with funding intended to support pilot initiatives, community-based projects, and innovative ideas that demonstrate practical impact.
The application process is conducted in two stages, beginning with a short concept proposal followed by a full proposal for shortlisted applicants, with guidance provided during the second stage to strengthen submissions.
-
This call for proposals is open to individuals, organizations, and teams from anywhere in the world, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches that combine astronomy with real-world development impact.
Visegrad Grant Programme
Deadline: 1st of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Visegrad Grant program aims to support collaborative projects that enhance cooperation and build strong partnerships among organizations and institutions across the Visegrad region.
-
The program focuses on objectives across seven thematic areas including promoting culture and common identity through shared artistic creation, cultural heritage reflection, and cooperation among local groups; strengthening education and capacity building by enhancing professional networks, supporting mobility, and improving skills through formal and non-formal learning; fostering innovation, research and development, and entrepreneurship by building business networks, addressing economic challenges, and advancing new technologies; supporting democratic values and the media by encouraging civic participation, transparency, media literacy, and access to information; enhancing public policy and institutional partnerships through expert collaboration, policy solutions, and stakeholder engagement; advancing regional development, environment, and tourism through climate action, sustainable tourism, and innovative infrastructure and land-use solutions; and promoting social development by encouraging inclusion, strengthening social care systems, improving intergenerational dialogue, and supporting healthy lifestyles.
The Visegrad Grants are designed to support partnerships among non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, public institutions, municipalities, private companies, and educational and research centers. Projects must involve meaningful cooperation and active participation from organizations in at least three Visegrad countries, while smaller cross-border initiatives may involve at least two organizations from neighboring countries within a defined border area.
Projects can run for a maximum duration of 18 months and must address at least one of the program’s objectives. The grants can cover up to 100 percent of the total project budget, including a portion allocated for overhead costs. Typical funding levels range between €25,000 and €35,000.
-
Eligibility extends to any non-governmental legal entity from any country, provided that the partnership requirements are met. The program encourages cross-sector collaboration and aims to strengthen regional ties through shared initiatives and cooperative solutions.
Strategic Grant Programme for Innovation and Cooperation Initiatives
Deadline: 1st of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Strategic Grant programme is requesting applications to support collaborative projects that address annual strategic priorities of the Visegrad Group and strengthen regional cooperation among participating countries.
-
The programme focuses on objectives including promoting Generation Future through strengthening cooperation among societies of Visegrad countries with emphasis on youth engagement, academic mobility, joint educational platforms, and future-oriented dialogue; supporting Smart and Sustainable Cities in the V4 region through cross-border partnerships involving local governments, civil society, startups, and academia to promote innovation in energy efficiency, transport, water management, emission reduction, and environmental protection; and facilitating research and development cooperation by promoting regional R&D collaboration, knowledge sharing, innovation, and intellectual property development across Visegrad, Eastern Partnership, and Western Balkan countries.
The programme is designed to support projects that ensure active participation from organizations across all Visegrad countries and align clearly with the annual strategic priorities set by the rotating presidency of the Visegrad Group. It encourages initiatives that strengthen cooperation, innovation, and long-term regional impact.
Projects under this scheme must have a minimum duration of 12 months and may run for up to 36 months. Funding can cover up to 100 percent of eligible project costs, including up to 15 percent allocated for overhead expenses. The majority of awarded grants typically range between €35,000 and €45,000.
-
Any non-governmental legal entity from any country may apply, provided that partnership requirements are met and the project aligns with the strategic priorities of the programme.
PROMOTION OF INCLUSIVE ACCESS TO PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DIGITAL SERVICES
Deadline: 2nd of June 2026
Budget: €1,500,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is: Engagement of civil society to promote a fair, safe, confident and sustainable digital society, including reduction of digital and gender divide The specific objectives of this call for proposals are: Promotion of digital connectivity and inclusive access to digital tools, services and technologies, including satellite and AI; Strengthening data protection and privacy.
-
The priorities of this call for proposals are:
• Strengthening capacity of CSOs, including female activists, to maintain inclusive, affordable, fair and quality digital and/or satellite connectivity and access to digital services and technologies, incl. AI tools.
• Increasing digital security awareness of citizens (esp. on privacy and data security);
• Advisory services and support to enhance necessary capacity of CSOs, including female activists, to advocate and monitor digital investment prioritisation and spending at national and local levels towards transparency and accountability.
Actions must take place in Kyrgyz Republic.
-
Eligible organisations are: (1) non-profit-making; (2) non-governmental organisation; (3) be effectively established in a Member State of the European Union or the Kyrgyz Republic.
PROMOTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND STRENGTHENING OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS IN MOROCCO
Deadline: 2nd of June 2026
Budget: €5,800,000
The general objective of this call for proposals is to support the initiatives of civil society organizations in Morocco aimed at contributing to the promotion and protection of human rights and democracy and strengthening CSOs as independent actors of good governance and development in their own right.
-
The specific objective(s) of this call for proposals are:
· OS1 (LOT 1): Strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights.
· OS2 (LOT 2): Strengthen the commitment of local civil society organizations in the fight against violence against women and child protection.
· OS3 (LOT 3): Support civil society organizations as actors of good governance and development.
Actions can take place in Morocco.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organization and (3) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
IF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE
Deadline: 3rd of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE aims to publish and support projects that contribute to our society. The best projects will be honored with a total prize money of €100,000. You are welcome to submit all projects that contribute to solving the most urgent challenges of our time and help to improve conditions – your CSR projects or your active support for a specific aspect of society.
-
The size of the project does not really matter but the idea, the relevance of the problem, the target groups and the sustainable impact will be of interest to their online visitors.
All submissions should be in line with the 15 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Actions can take place in various countries worldwide.
-
Companies, design studios, NGOs, foundations, social enterprises, public and other organizations are welcome to submit.
JOINT CALL FOR PROPOSALS PANAMA 2026 – THEMATIC PROGRAMS CIVIL SOCIETY (CSO), AND HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY (DH&D)
Deadline: 4th of June 2026
Budget: €1,400,000
The overall objective of this call for proposals is: in accordance with the general objectives of the DH&D and CSO thematic programs, on the one hand, strengthen CSOs as independent actors of the good governance and development that contribute to promoting and protecting human rights and freedoms fundamentals, democracy and the rule of law. On the other hand, it aims to contribute to a civil society and an inclusive, participatory, and independent democratic space that allows open dialogue with and between CSOs.
-
It is about achieving this global objective by supporting and strengthening CSOs, democracy activists and human rights defenders in non-EU countries.
§ LOT 1- Thematic Program Civil Society Organizations: strengthen technical capacities, management, articulation and coordination of civil society organizations (CSO), promoting their informed, inclusive and constructive participation in the implementation and monitoring of actions, policies, public plans and programs in three priority thematic lines (biodiversity; energy transition; digital transition).
§ LOT 2 – Human Rights and Democracy: support CSOs in actions that contribute to promoting and protect democracy and the rule of law, through transparency, accountability and the fight against impunity.
Actions must take place in Panama.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a civil society organisation; and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
Open Call for Baker Hughes Energy Ideas Generation Program
Deadline: 5th of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Baker Hughes Energy Ideas Generation Program is pleased to announce its applications to support start-ups, SMEs and research projects focused on energy-related technologies.
-
The program supports startups through two distinct tracks depending on their stage of development. The first track is designed for technologies that require validation in relevant environments and offers technical assessment, detailed validation processes, and expert guidance to refine core technological aspects and establish feasibility in industrial contexts. The second track targets mature technologies that are ready for demonstration and commercial deployment and emphasizes proof of concept implementation, industrial integration pathways, scaling strategies, and market entry within Baker Hughes’ ecosystem.
Selected participants benefit from a comprehensive support system that includes technical expertise, business mentorship, specialized workshops, and collaboration with Baker Hughes subject matter experts to develop actionable project implementations. The program runs for sixteen weeks and selects up to five startups each year while also offering dedicated events to showcase technologies and multiple workshops to unlock collaborative development opportunities.
Eligible startups may receive funding of up to €35,000 as an equity free grant to support critical development phases along with reimbursement of travel expenses. In addition to financial support, they receive weekly one to one mentoring sessions, extended engagement with technical experts, business mentoring including sales marketing and UX UI guidance, and ongoing support from Nana Bianca’s investment team to help them progress toward their first funding round. The program is primarily conducted through remote mentorship sessions with a limited number of in person events.
-
The initiative is primarily open to early stage startups that are under three years old and are typically at pre seed stage with a prototype or at an initial pilot phase operating in the energy sector and seeking to refine their value proposition. They may also consider startups at a more advanced stage if the technology demonstrates significant value.
Purpose of the call: To support independent grassroots CSOs in Bulgaria working on fundamental rights, democracy, gender equality, human rights, social justice, and protection of civic space.
-
Criteria include:
• Contribution to the promotion of EU values and fundamental rights
• Focus on under-addressed or contested issues and groups
• Integration of a gender equality perspective and an intersectional / anti-discrimination approach
• Theory of change, relevance, and implementation plan of the proposed activities
• Involvement, influence, and leadership of impacted communities
• Risk management and mitigation, with attention to safety and ethics
• Feasibility: team capacity, partnerships, and budget logic
• Potential for structural change / advocacy / movement mobilisation
Actions must take place in Bulgaria.
-
Eligible organisations are non-governmental organisations.
REINFORCING PROTECTION OF THE KENYA BORDER SHARED WITH SOMALIA
Deadline: 9th of June 2026
Budget: €5,029,070
The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism (CT) announces a funding opportunity for a 15-month results-focused cooperative agreement to improve the counterterrorism capabilities of one of the advanced tactical law enforcement units within Kenya’s Administrative Police Services (APS) tasked with securing the border with Somalia.
-
Through the provision of training and necessary equipment, this program will improve operational readiness through three lines of effort: 1) low-light and night-vision ability; 2) using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance (ISR) purposes; and 3) organic explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) capability.
In the Kenyan context, the overall outcome of this program is to further the tactical development of these three skills in order to enhance the security surrounding the Manda Bay Military Base (also known as “Camp Simba”) along the eastern border with Somalia. The military base in Kenya’s Lamu County region is critical to the protection of U.S. military assets and personnel. By strengthening Kenya’s ability to secure its border with Somalia, this program directly protects American servicemembers stationed at Manda Bay and prevents terrorists from conducting attacks that threaten American citizens and U.S. interests.
Actions must take place in Kenya.
-
Eligibility is unrestricted.
Call for Applications: Setting up of Cross-Border Coordination Points
Deadline: 9th of June 2026
Budget: €1,561,960
The European Commission is inviting applications to support Member States in establishing Cross-Border Coordination Points by providing financial assistance for their operational setup.
-
The primary objective is to facilitate the creation and functioning of Cross-Border Coordination Points that address legal and administrative obstacles in cross-border contexts, particularly in land or maritime border regions between neighbouring Member States, including the possibility of establishing joint cross-border coordination points by neighbouring Member States.
The total available budget for this call is EUR 1,561,970, with funding allocated to up to fourteen projects. Each selected project can receive a maximum contribution of EUR 120,000, and the project duration must not exceed eighteen months.
The call focuses on enabling both established and prospective Cross-Border Coordination Points to become operational through a wide range of eligible activities. These include the acquisition or rental of real estate, procurement of digital systems, furniture, and office equipment, as well as the purchase of office supplies.
Applicants must not have received support under the previous call on the same topic and are required to register and validate their status in the Participant Register. International organisations may apply only if acknowledged as coordination points, while entities without legal personality may participate under specific conditions. EU bodies are not eligible to be part of the consortium.
-
To be eligible, applicants must be legal entities or permanent entities as defined under the Regulation and must be established in an EU Member State. They must be officially acknowledged by a Member State as either an established or prospective Cross-Border Coordination Point through a formal letter of acknowledgment. In the case of permanent entities, one legal entity must apply on behalf of the group with the authority to assume legal and financial responsibilities.
The Jacobs Foundation has announced the LEVANTE Framework Grant Program offering significant funding to advance research on learning and child development.
-
This third call aims to expand the developmental scope of the LEVANTE network while deepening its methodological ambition. Special consideration is given to projects that enable strong causal inference and capture dynamic learning processes through dense measurement strategies. Proposals are encouraged from diverse global contexts, particularly from underrepresented regions, to enhance the inclusivity and representativeness of research findings.
The funding allocation totals up to USD 6 million, with three categories of grants available. Regular projects can receive up to USD 250,000 over a minimum of 2–3 years, large projects up to USD 600,000 over at least 4 years, and infrastructure projects up to USD 1,000,000 over a minimum of 4 years. The final distribution of funds will depend on scientific merit and the overall strategic balance of selected proposals.
-
Eligibility requires main applicants to hold a PhD or equivalent degree obtained at least five years prior to the application deadline, be affiliated with a research lab at a higher education institution or research institute, conduct high-quality research on learning and development variability, and demonstrate commitment to active participation in LEVANTE and the Jacobs Foundation’s collaborative activities.
COLLABORATION FUND RFP
Deadline: 11th of June 2026
Budget: €400,000
The Collaboration Fund is a pooled grant fund that will provide financial support to relevant nonprofit organizations exploring and executing strategic mergers and collaborations.
-
Possible uses of proceeds include:
· Feasibility studies and due diligence: Helping organizations assess alignment and potential synergies before committing to a merger.
· Legal and consulting costs: Covering essential professional services to navigate the complexities of structuring a successful merger.
· Integration planning and implementation support: Ensuring smooth operational, financial, technological, and cultural transitions post-merger.
· Staff transition and change management: Providing resources to support leadership transitions and mitigate disruption for employees and stakeholders.
· Reputation-enhancing strategic communication: Celebrating strategic mergers and the leaders willing and able to participate in them to provide reputational cover to leaders willing to put the mission above their job security.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
The Collaboration Fund is targeting nonprofit field-building organizations in the impact investing or inclusive capitalism space, or immediately related fields, with a mission to create collective value and benefits for the field that everyone can use.
SUPPORT TO HUMAN RIGHTS, DEMOCRACY AND CIVIL SOCIETY IN JORDAN 2026
Deadline: 14th of June 2026
Budget: €3,000,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is: To contribute to an inclusive, participatory, empowered, and independent civil society in Jordan as well as an inclusive and open dialogue with and between civils society organisations.
-
The specific objective(s) of this call for proposals is: To support civil society organisations in Jordan working on media and local development in Jordan.
The priorities of this call for proposals are:
§ HRD programme: Support to Media and Freedom of Expression (Lot 1)
§ CSO Thematic Support programme: CSO Support to Local Development (Lot 2)
Actions must take place in Jordan.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be non-profit-making and (3) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organisation and (4) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
Zayed Sustainability Prize Supporting Global Sustainable Solutions
Deadline: 15th of June 2026
Budget: €5,900,000
The Zayed Sustainability Prize is a global award established by the Abu Dhabi Government to recognize impactful solutions that advance sustainability and humanitarian development in line with the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
-
The Prize focuses on Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools, with the aim of rewarding innovative, impactful, and inspiring solutions that address pressing global challenges while promoting sustainable and human-centered development. Managed by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company, the Zayed Sustainability Prize supports organizations that have already demonstrated real-world impact. It does not support early-stage startups or untested concepts, but rather proven solutions that are technically and commercially viable, adopted by the market, and capable of scaling their positive outcomes.
Across the Health, Food, Energy, and Water categories, applications are assessed based on innovation, impact, and inspiration. Innovation emphasizes unique value propositions, transformative approaches, and viable solutions that address real needs. Impact focuses on measurable improvements to people’s lives, resilience to challenges, strong governance, and clear plans for using the prize funds to expand benefits. Inspiration reflects alignment with Sheikh Zayed’s values of sustainability and human development, and the ability of solutions to motivate wider societal change. The total prize fund amounts to US $5.9 million. Each of the Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Climate Action categories receives US $1 million, while the Global High Schools category distributes US $900,000 across six schools, with US $150,000 awarded to each selected school. This funding enables winners to scale their solutions, deepen impact, and inspire further sustainable development worldwide.
-
The Climate Action category similarly rewards initiatives that demonstrate tangible contributions to environmental sustainability and climate resilience, while the Global High Schools category supports student-led projects from six global regions: The Americas, Europe and Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and East Asia and the Pacific. These projects emphasize youth leadership, education, and local sustainability action.
ZAYED SUSTAINABILITY PRIZE
Deadline: 15th of June 2026
Budget: €6,000,000
The Zayed Sustainability Prize is the UAE’s pioneering global award that recognises and rewards small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organisations (NPOs), and global high schools with impactful, innovative, and inspiring sustainable solutions.
-
The Zayed Sustainability Prize recognises nonprofit organisations (NPOs), small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and high schools for their impactful, innovative and inspiring sustainable solutions across the categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools.
The Zayed Sustainability Prize awards 6 categories:
· Health
· Food
· Energy
· Water
· Climate Action
· Global High Schools (1 award for each of the below regions): The Americas, Europe & Central Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia & Pacific, South Asia, MENA
The Fund is open to applications for funding from across the globe.
-
You can nominate an organisation (SME or NPO) only for the new Climate Action category by registering in the Zayed Sustainability Prize submissions portal and filling out the form. You can nominate an organisation you are affiliated with or one with which you have no affiliation.
Strengthening Local Capacity for Conservation, Food and Health
Deadline: 15th of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Conservation, Food and Health Foundation is seeking grant applications to support initiatives that protect ecosystems, strengthen food systems, and improve public health outcomes across developing regions.
-
The Foundation focuses on generating local or regional solutions to environmental and human life challenges, advancing leadership and professional development in conservation, agriculture, and health sciences, building the capacity of organizations and coalitions, and addressing critical field challenges while prioritizing under-funded issues and regions; it emphasizes conservation efforts that protect biodiversity, mitigate climate change impacts, strengthen scientific and technical capacity, foster collaboration, and engage local and indigenous communities; food-related initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture, support small-scale farmers, encourage research partnerships, improve pest and disease management, strengthen food systems, and advance indigenous knowledge; and health programs that test innovative approaches in public health, promote reproductive health and family planning, address mental and environmental health concerns, improve understanding of zoonotic and neglected diseases, and strengthen public health systems, all while prioritizing projects that advance the field, build local capacity, enable replication, influence policy, drive systems change, and create broader societal impact.
The Foundation provides grants primarily for applied research, pilot projects, and new initiatives rather than ongoing programs. It aims to offer seed funding that helps promising projects and organizations establish credibility and attract larger funding opportunities in the future. Support also extends to training, technical assistance, and program development activities that strengthen institutional and community capacity.
Funding is typically awarded for one- or two-year periods, with second-year support dependent on satisfactory progress and reporting. While there is no fixed minimum or maximum grant size, most grants generally range between $25,000 and $50,000 annually. Renewal of funding may be considered but requires submission of a new application if not initially approved as a multi-year project.
-
Eligible applicants include a wide range of non-governmental and nonprofit entities such as community-based organizations, civil society groups, and academic institutions. The Foundation supports organizations based in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East, as well as those in higher-income countries working in partnership with local organizations in these regions.
EUROPEAN FILM SALES AGENT
Deadline: 18th of June 2026
Budget: €5,500,000
Expected results are:
· Improvement in the trans-national distribution of recent non-national European films.
· Increase in the investment in the production, acquisition, promotion, theatrical and online distribution of non-national European films.
· Develop links between the production and distribution sector thus improving the competitive position of non-national European films.
-
There are two phases for the funded activities:
· The generation of a potential fund which will be attributed according to the performance of the company on the European market.
· The implementation of the action – the potential fund thus generated by each company must be reinvested in: minimum guarantees or advances paid for the international sales rights on eligible non-national European films; and the promotion, marketing and advertising on the market of eligible non-national European films.
Actions must take place in EU member states plus Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Tunisia and Ukraine.
-
Eligibility is limited to legal entities (public or private bodies).
Applications for Forest Conservation Fund Grant Opportunity
Deadline: 21st of June 2026
Budget: €Not available
The Forest Conservation Fund (FCF) provides financial support to eligible organisations and individuals engaged in the protection, management, and restoration of natural forest areas through community-driven and conservation-focused initiatives.
-
he Forest Conservation Fund (FCF) is designed for community-based organisations, NGOs, private companies, research institutions, universities, religious entities, or individuals, provided they are legally registered and operating within the country of the conservation site, while government bodies are not eligible to serve as grantees. Applicants must ensure annual third-party financial audits of conservation spending, maintain transparency in fund allocation, and demonstrate that funds are used exclusively for conservation activities rather than profit generation.
Eligible project areas must consist of natural forest ecosystems with limited non-native species presence, must not involve new plantation of non-native species, and should be formally recognised as conservation or social forestry areas with intent for long-term protection. Additionally, the forest must meet a minimum size requirement of 500 contiguous hectares and must have visible demarcation at entry points or boundaries to ensure clear identification and protection of the site.
Funding under the FCF may be used for a wide range of conservation activities including the development and implementation of biodiversity and social monitoring systems, participation in broader landscape conservation efforts, payment of land-related fees or permits, staffing and operational support, contracting third-party management services, ecological restoration using native species, and reintroduction of native fauna.
The programme also supports initiatives that strengthen conservation outcomes through community-based income generation, both within and outside the project area, as long as these activities align with conservation goals, as well as legal assistance for securing community or indigenous land tenure over conservation areas.
Applicants are encouraged to design integrated conservation strategies that combine ecological protection with community participation and long-term sustainability, ensuring that conservation areas are effectively managed, monitored, and protected while contributing to broader environmental and social benefits.
-
The opportunity is focused on legally registered organisations or eligible individuals residing in the country of the forest area, excluding government agencies as grantees, and requiring third-party financial auditing of conservation-related expenditures, along with strict compliance on fund usage strictly for conservation purposes.
ENTRIES OPEN FOR FRONTIERS OF KNOWLEDGE AWARDS (19TH EDITION)
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €3,600,000
Applications are now open or the nineteenth edition of Frontiers of Knowledge Awards to recognize and reward world-class research and artistic creation, prizing contributions of singular impact for their originality and significance. The focus areas are Basic Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), Biology and Biomedicine, Information and Communication Technologies, Climate Change and Environmental Sciences, Economics, Finance and Management, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Music and Opera.
-
The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards are intended to honor advances that significantly enlarge current understanding while also reflecting the interaction and overlap of different disciplinary areas and the emergence of new fields.
They emphasize the enduring importance of basic knowledge as a driver of scientific change, cultural development, and human progress, alongside the recognition of interdisciplinary approaches that characterize contemporary research and creation.
The awards acknowledge that many decisive contributions arise from collaborative or parallel efforts by large research teams or cultural groups, allowing accolades to be shared by individuals or organizations whose work converges on a single advance.
Special attention is given to areas concerned with the natural world through the Climate Change and Environmental Sciences category, as well as to the foundations of digital society through Information and Communication Technologies. Distinct categories also recognize major contributions in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Music and Opera.
Each award consists of 400,000 euros, a diploma, and a commemorative artwork, with the monetary amount divided equally if shared among multiple recipients and subject to applicable taxes. Candidates may be individuals or organizations of any nationality whose contributions are independent or convergent, provided the awards are not granted posthumously.
-
Nominations are open and indirect, as self-nomination is not permitted. A wide range of scientific, cultural, educational, medical, artistic, and environmental organizations may submit nominations, as well as Nobel Prize laureates and previous recipients of the BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Awards.
Nominations must be submitted in English through the official website during the designated nomination period, accompanied by the required documentation detailing the candidate’s contributions.
The selection process takes place in two stages, with evaluation support panels appointed by the BBVA Foundation and assisted by the Spanish National Research Council, followed by final decisions made by expert committees in each category. Decisions are final and may result in shared awards, merged nominations, or the decision to leave an award vacant.
Award decisions will be made before April 30, 2027, and the presentation ceremony will be held in June 2027 in Bilbao, where laureates are expected to attend. Participation in the awards implies acceptance of all conditions and decisions established by the BBVA Foundation.
CALL FOR PROPOSAL FROM BEL FOUNDATION
Deadline: 26th of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
Founded in 2008, the Bel Foundation, created by the Bel Group, supports initiatives on behalf of children and teens, with a particular emphasis on food and dietary issues. To respond to the mission, the Foundation focuses its action on two axes:
-
he Foundation provides financial support to associative projects in France and in all the countries where the Group operates. The actions implemented are diverse and always address a local issue. In supporting projects led by Charities, the objective is to bring concrete and durable solutions for a better nutrition of the children.
The Foundation supports the engagement of the employees by helping them to make their solidarity projects for children happen. A dozen of Grants are awarded each year to several employees’ team, acting activily in local Charities for the well-being of children.
This year, the Foundation will study specifically projects addressing the following issues:
• Sustainable supply for canteens: vegetable gardens, market gardening areas, collaborations with agricultural cooperatives, etc.,
• Nutrition: offering safe and diversified school meals,
• Organization: involvement of communities in the daily management of the canteen,
• Pedagogy: raising awareness among school children of good food practices, to make them actors in their diet.
Actions must take place in selected countries where they operate.
-
Before submitting your project, please check that you meet the following eligibility criteria: Your structure must have a not-for-profit designation; If not French, your Structure must have a French partner and/or one recommendation of a French Foundation; Your Project must be specifically related to children; Your Project has to specifically improve their nutrition, in a school canteen; The Grant must apply to actual implementation of an initiative and not to the association funding; Your Project must be in line with long-term goals and have long-term durability,
D-PRIZE COMPETITION
Deadline: 28th of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
D-Prize funds new entrepreneurs who increase access to proven poverty interventions. The world has already invented ways to end poverty, yet the best interventions are not being distributed at mass-scale. D-Prize expands access to poverty-alleviation interventions in the developing world. Many solutions to poverty already exist. The challenge is distributing these solutions to the people who need it most. Their programs produce new “distribution entrepreneurs” – social entrepreneurs who start new ventures that distribute proven life-enhancing technologies to millions of people living in extreme poverty.
-
The Challenges include: girls education, agriculture, energy, global health, education, governance and infrastructure, and custom.
The specific goals of D-Prize is to: (1) significantly increase access to life-enhancing technologies in the developing world – and prove an impact in a measurable way; (2) encourage young entrepreneurs to focus their talent on the developing world, pilot new solutions to distribution problems, and launch new social ventures; (3) encourage a global dialogue on the importance of leveraging distribution solutions for development. The believe the path to development is through solving distribution. Applicants can design a business or NGO that solves one of the Distribution Challenges: girl’s education, agriculture, energy, education, global health, governance and infrastructure and custom.
D-Prize is for aspiring entrepreneurs from anywhere in the world, of any age, and any background.
-
D-Prize is open to any business model (for profit, non-profit, and everything in between). They will consider funding existing organisations only if: they are piloting a new distribution-focused initiative, and need high risk capital.
GRANTS FROM RONCALLI FOUNDATION
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The Roncalli International Foundation focuses its funding and support on 8 key areas of action designed to improve living conditions in developing countries
-
The Foundation accepts grant applications for projects that can be implemented in approximately 50 countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America.
-
Eligibility is limited to Non-governmental organization (NGOs); Religious congregation.
iDEX Open Challenge (India)
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €500,000
The iDEX Open Challenge is seeking grant applications to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the defence and aerospace sectors by supporting innovative solutions from startups and individuals.
-
The iDEX Open Challenge serves as a significant initiative to encourage technological advancement and foster innovation within the defence ecosystem, providing both financial and institutional support to emerging innovators.
The iDEX Open Challenge is implemented by iDEX under the Defence Innovation Organisation to create opportunities for innovators to contribute to the defence sector. It provides a platform for startups, individual innovators, and MSMEs to present their ideas and technologies that can be applied in defence and aerospace applications.
Participants are encouraged to submit proposals that clearly outline their technology or solution, its potential applications, and, where possible, demonstrate feasibility. The challenge enables innovators to showcase their capabilities and engage directly with the military, facilitating collaboration and real-world application of their solutions.
The initiative supports a wide range of advanced technology domains, including aerospace, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. By doing so, it aims to harness emerging technologies to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities and promote self-reliance in critical sectors.
-
Eligibility for the challenge is open to Indian startups, individual innovators, and MSMEs that have innovative solutions relevant to defence and aerospace. Applicants must submit their proposals through the designated portal and ensure that their ideas align with the objectives of enhancing military capabilities.
ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT INNOVATION FUND 2026- GABORONE
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €100,000
The U.S. Department of State’s Embassy Gaborone announces an open competition for alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs to submit project proposals for the 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF).
-
This competition seeks projects that position sports as a sustainable driver of economic growth and social inclusion in Botswana. It supports U.S. foreign policy priorities by promoting excellence, investment, and shared prosperity through people-to-people engagement, aligned with the Freedom 250 initiative commemorating 250 years of American independence.
The 2026 AEIF call for proposals aims to strengthen the governance, management, and sustainability of Botswana’s sports organizations; develop effective business models and fundraising strategies; enhance marketing, branding, and event management capacity; support athletes in preparing for post-sports careers; and foster international partnerships, especially with U.S. collegiate and professional teams.
Actions must take place in Botswana.
-
The following organizations are eligible to apply: Nonprofits non-higher education with 501(c)(3), Nonprofits non-higher education without 501(c)(3), Individuals.
Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €Not available
Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2026 recognize outstanding efforts in preserving cultural heritage across the Asia-Pacific region through exemplary conservation projects.
-
The initiative highlights the importance of protecting cultural identity through sustainable and well-executed restoration and preservation practices.
The Awards place special emphasis this year on encouraging participation from underrepresented subregions, including Central and West Asia and the Pacific. Projects connected to diverse heritage types such as cultural landscapes, technological and industrial sites, agricultural heritage systems, and modern-era cultural assets are strongly encouraged for submission.
Eligible projects must have been completed within the last ten years. This includes projects finalised between March 2016 and June 2026 where the original use of the site has been retained, or up to June 2025 in cases where a new use has been introduced. The eligibility criteria ensure that recently completed and relevant conservation efforts are recognised.
Examples of eligible conservation projects include houses, commercial and institutional buildings, historic towns and villages, archaeological sites, and cultural landscapes. These categories reflect the broad scope of heritage conservation considered under the Awards framework.
-
UNESCO has opened submissions for the 2026 edition of the Awards, inviting nominations for conservation projects that demonstrate excellence in safeguarding historical places while also strengthening community involvement.
Nominations open for Africa Sustainable Futures Awards
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €Not available
The Africa Sustainable Futures Awards is offering to support innovative private sector-led solutions that address development challenges and promote sustainable economic growth across Africa.
-
The programme focuses on key sectors including energy access through innovative and efficient electricity solutions that support households, agriculture, and industry; critical non-energy infrastructure such as transport, logistics, tourism, water and sanitation, healthcare, and digital connectivity; agribusiness initiatives that strengthen food production, integrate smallholder farmers into value chains, and promote sustainable rural economies; manufacturing champions that drive industrial development, job creation, technology transfer, and supply chain integration; innovation showcase projects highlighting early-stage entrepreneurial solutions with transformative potential; and excellence awards recognising initiatives with outstanding innovation, impact, scalability, financial viability, and sustainability.
The Awards are designed to highlight commercially viable private sector initiatives that offer scalable and resilient solutions to development challenges. They emphasise the importance of building self-sustaining economic models that contribute to job creation, human development, and long-term competitiveness across African economies.
The initiative is jointly launched by the Financial Times and the World Bank Group’s Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency and focuses on showcasing projects that demonstrate innovation, impact, and strong operational models. It also evaluates how organisations use technology and creative approaches to manage risks and achieve scale.
The categories include Access to Energy, Critical Infrastructure (non-energy), Agribusiness, Manufacturing Champions, Judges’ Award for Excellence, and Innovation Showcase, each highlighting specific areas of economic transformation and development impact.
-
The Awards are open to all private sector organisations with projects that demonstrate measurable impact in addressing development challenges. They focus on recognising initiatives that strengthen local ecosystems, support inclusive growth, and contribute to sustainable development across the continent.
Nominations open for AL-Sumait Prize for African Development
Deadline: 30th of June 2026
Budget: €1,000,000
The AL-Sumait Prize recognizes individuals and institutions making significant contributions to sustainable development across Africa through impactful research and innovative initiatives.
-
This prestigious international prize is awarded annually to individuals or institutions whose work has demonstrated measurable and lasting impact in advancing development outcomes on the African continent. The prize carries a total funding value of $1,000,000, making it one of the most significant global recognitions in the field of development and research.
The award is managed by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences and aims to highlight achievements that address critical challenges such as food insecurity, health systems, and access to education in Africa.
Eligible nominees must have conducted innovative and high-impact work that has been applied in Africa, with strong evidence of effectiveness and contribution to economic and social development. The work should typically be supported by recognized research or practical implementation with proven outcomes.
-
Nominations are accepted from qualified institutions such as universities, research centers, international organizations, and previous laureates, ensuring that candidates are endorsed through credible and established channels.
All submissions must be presented in English, and nominated work must demonstrate relevance, innovation, and a sustained contribution to development within the past years.
Protected or Conserved Area Creation Awards Grant
Deadline: 1st of July 2026
Budget: €500,000
The Rainforest Trust offers funding support to enable the creation and expansion of protected or conserved areas that safeguard biodiversity and contribute to climate mitigation.
-
Rainforest Trust’s Protected or Conserved Area Creation Awards are designed to empower non-profit organizations, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities to establish legally recognized conservation areas. These projects must prioritize long-term sustainability and align with the needs and aspirations of both governments and local stakeholders. The funding supports efforts such as land designation, titling, or purchase, as well as other recognized conservation approaches including Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures.
Eligible projects must focus on areas that are currently unprotected and demonstrate clear ecological importance, particularly for endangered species or critical habitats.
The initiative also emphasizes the importance of ensuring lasting conservation outcomes through legal protection mechanisms that mitigate threats to biodiversity and carbon storage. Projects are expected to establish or strengthen management systems, including formal management plans and committees, to maintain effective stewardship of the protected areas. Additionally, measures must be implemented to regulate resource use and prevent unsustainable extraction practices.
With no fixed maximum grant amount and awards starting at $250,000 and above, each application is assessed individually based on its potential impact and alignment with Rainforest Trust’s conservation priorities.
-
Applicants are required to be legally registered non-governmental organizations authorized to operate within the project country. Strong collaboration and documented support from relevant governments and Indigenous or local communities are essential, including adherence to Free Prior and Informed Consent processes.
Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowship Program (India)
Deadline: 1st of July 2026
Budget: €Not available
The Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Fellowship Program provides support to Indian faculty, researchers and professionals with the opportunity to teach, conduct research or engage in a combination of both research and teaching at U.S. institutions.
-
The focus areas include Critical Minerals and Supply Chains covering Geology, Materials Science, and Mining Engineering, Defense and Security including Cybersecurity, Aerospace Engineering, and Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Energy Security encompassing Energy Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Energy Innovation and Technology Commercialization, Science and Research Collaboration including Bioengineering, Artificial Intelligence, and Semiconductor Engineering, Space Cooperation covering Astrophysics, Planetary Science, Space Systems Engineering, and Satellite Communications, and Technology and Innovation including Data Science, Quantum Computing, and Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
These fellowships are offered for a duration of four to nine months and encourage proposals that are futuristic, innovative, and technology-focused. Depending on the host institution, grantees may contribute to the academic environment by developing curriculum and conducting workshops and seminars.
Applicants can choose from three categories: research, teaching, or a combination of both. Under the research category, they must justify the relevance of their proposed work to India and/or the U.S., demonstrate feasibility within the fellowship duration, and explain the need to conduct the research in the U.S. along with alignment to fellowship goals. For teaching, applicants are expected to contribute to curriculum internationalization and explain proposed courses, teaching experience, methodologies, and academic responsibilities, along with the expected impact of their teaching. Those opting for a combined research and teaching approach must clearly define time allocation between both components, such as dedicating a percentage of time to each activity.
The fellowship provides financial and institutional support including J-1 visa assistance, a monthly stipend, round-trip economy class air travel, a modest settling-in allowance, Accident and Sickness Program coverage as per U.S. government guidelines, and a professional allowance. Subject to availability of funds, fellows on eight or nine-month grants may also receive a dependent allowance and international travel support for one eligible dependent staying for at least 80 percent of the grant duration.
-
Eligibility criteria require faculty and researchers to hold a Ph.D. with at least five years of relevant experience, while professionals outside academia must have a master’s degree with at least five years of experience. Applicants must submit a recent significant publication not exceeding 30 pages. If employed, they must secure endorsement from their employer confirming leave for the fellowship period. Government employees from central and state services are not eligible, although researchers and academicians from centrally funded institutions remain eligible to apply.
Apply for Protected or Conserved Area Creation Awards Grant
Deadline: 1st of July 2026
Budget: €250,000 per project
The Rainforest Trust offers funding support to enable the creation and expansion of protected or conserved areas that safeguard biodiversity and contribute to climate mitigation.
-
Eligible projects must focus on areas that are currently unprotected and demonstrate clear ecological importance, particularly for endangered species or critical habitats.
The initiative also emphasizes the importance of ensuring lasting conservation outcomes through legal protection mechanisms that mitigate threats to biodiversity and carbon storage. Projects are expected to establish or strengthen management systems, including formal management plans and committees, to maintain effective stewardship of the protected areas. Additionally, measures must be implemented to regulate resource use and prevent unsustainable extraction practices.
With no fixed maximum grant amount and awards starting at $250,000 and above, each application is assessed individually based on its potential impact and alignment with Rainforest Trust’s conservation priorities.
-
Applicants are required to be legally registered non-governmental organizations authorized to operate within the project country. Strong collaboration and documented support from relevant governments and Indigenous or local communities are essential, including adherence to Free Prior and Informed Consent processes.
NETWORKS OF EUROPEAN CINEMAS
Deadline: 9th of July 2026
Budget: €17,467,470
The aim of the support is to create and operate a network of cinemas with a view to:
· Encourage cinema operators to screen a significant proportion of non- national European films through incentives and collaborative projects;
· Contribute to raise and increase the interest of the audience for non-national films including through the development of activities for young cinema-goers;
· Help those cinemas to adapt their strategy to the changing environment including by promoting innovative approaches in terms of audience reach and engagement, as well as partnerships with other film industry operators as well as with local cultural institutions;
· Encourage exchange of best practices, knowledge sharing and other forms of cross border collaboration amongst members of the network
· Contribute to the policy dialogue on the film industry by collecting data and disseminating the outcome of the activities of the network beyond its members.
-
Expected results are:
· Increase the audience for non-national European films on the European market;
· Reach new audiences for European films including young cinema-goers;
· Reinforce and renew the ongoing cinema experience;
· Adjust the business practices of European cinema theatres in terms of sustainability and inclusion;
· Foster the innovation potential of European cinema theatres through enhanced collaboration.
Actions must take place in EU member states plus Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Tunisia and Ukraine.
-
Eligibility is limited to legal entities (public or private bodies).
SUPPORT TO CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATION IN ERITREA
Deadline: 8th of July 2026
Budget: €495,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is: to strengthen Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) as independent actors of good governance and development in their own right. The specific objective of this call for proposals is: to strengthen local CSOs engagement as actors of development at country level, in particular in terms of support to private sector actors.
-
The priorities of this call for proposals are:
• Enhanced capacity of local CSOs to actively engage in climate-smart agriculture and any other nature-based green approaches, and transfer the skills to smallholder farmers and SMEs;
• Enhanced capacity of CSOs to provide business skills and networking opportunities to the private sector;
• Advanced economic empowerment of women and youth in Eritrea’s private economy;
• Enhanced capacity of CSOs to provide digital solutions to businesses and in particular to strengthen economic empowerment of youth, women and the most vulnerable groups;
• Promotion of economic growth and development of sustainable value chains.
Actions must take place in Eritrea.
-
Eligible organisations are: (1) non-profit-making; (2) non-governmental organisation, public sector operator, local authority; (3) established in a Member State of the European Union or in the State of Eritrea or other countries as stipulated by the NDICI Global Europe Regulations Art. 28.
SUPPORT TO CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATION IN ERITREA
Deadline: 9th of July 2026
Budget: €17,467,470
The aim of the support is to create and operate a network of cinemas with a view to:
• Encourage cinema operators to screen a significant proportion of non- national European films through incentives and collaborative projects;
• Contribute to raise and increase the interest of the audience for non-national films including through the development of activities for young cinema-goers;
• Help those cinemas to adapt their strategy to the changing environment including by promoting innovative approaches in terms of audience reach and engagement, as well as partnerships with other film industry operators as well as with local cultural institutions;
• Encourage exchange of best practices, knowledge sharing and other forms of cross border collaboration amongst members of the network
• Contribute to the policy dialogue on the film industry by collecting data and disseminating the outcome of the activities of the network beyond its members.
-
Expected results are:
• Increase the audience for non-national European films on the European market;
• Reach new audiences for European films including young cinema-goers;
• Reinforce and renew the ongoing cinema experience;
• Adjust the business practices of European cinema theatres in terms of sustainability and inclusion;
• Foster the innovation potential of European cinema theatres through enhanced collaboration.
Actions must take place in EU member states plus Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Tunisia and Ukraine.
-
Eligibility is limited to legal entities (public or private bodies).
CIVIL SOCIETY, HUMAN RIGHTS AND ESG ACCOUNTABILITY FOR AN INCLUSIVE SOUTH AFRICA (CS HR ESG SA)
Deadline: 23rd of July 2026
Budget: €5,164,000
The global objective of this call for proposals is to strengthen the capacity of South African civil society organisations, as well as the promotion and protection of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, and to inclusive, sustainable and accountable governance, particularly in communities most affected by socio-economic development and the Just Energy Transition.
-
Specific objectives at programme level are:
§ SO1 – Gender equality, inclusion and ESG / Business & Human Rights
§ SO2 – Human rights and democracy
§ SO3 – Civil society as governance and development actor
This call is divided into two lots:
§ Lot 1 – Civil Society for Inclusive Governance, Resilience and ESG Participation
§ Lot 2 – Human Rights, Democracy and ESG Accountability for an Inclusive South Africa
Actions can take place in South Africa.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organization and (3) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
CIVIL SOCIETY ENGAGEMENT IN PUBLIC POLICY
Deadline: 28th of July 2026
Budget: €2,250,000
The overall objective of the action is to strengthen participatory democracy and the EU integration process in Montenegro through an enhanced contribution by civil society.
-
The specific objective(s) of this call for proposals is: To strengthen the contribution of civil society organisations (CSOs) to public policy processes, including those related to the EU integration process, by promoting inclusive and gender-sensitive participation, enhancing cooperation and partnerships with public institutions, and reinforcing CSO capacity, sustainability and resilience.
Actions can take place in Montenegro.
-
In order to be eligible for a grant, the lead applicant must: (1) be a legal person and (2) be a specific type of organisation such as: non-governmental organisation and (3) be directly responsible for the preparation and management of the action with the co-applicant(s) and affiliated entity(ies), not acting as an intermediary.
ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
Deadline: 4th of August 2026
Budget: €1,600,000
Journalismfund.eu’s flexible grants programmes enable journalists to produce relevant public interest stories with a European mind-set from international, national, and regional perspectives.
-
This grant can be awarded to cross-border teams of professional journalists and/or news outlets to conduct investigations into environmental affairs related to Europe (all the countries, not only the EU). The resulting stories must be published in at least two outlets in two different countries, at least one must be a European media. While news media and newsrooms still predominantly operate nationally, most power structures and societal and environmental problems transcend national boundaries. This grant programme is therefore aimed at cross-border teams of investigative journalists and newsrooms to investigate and document illegal, unreported and unregulated abuse of nature that involves European affairs in and outside Europe.
Actions must take place in Europe.
-
Cross-border teams of at least two professional journalists and/or news outlets can submit a proposal for a journalistic investigation about an issue that concerns the environment and relates to the European continent (islands included).
ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
Deadline: 6th of August 2026
Budget: €1,600,000
Journalismfund.eu’s flexible grants programmes enable journalists to produce relevant public interest stories with a European mind-set from international, national, and regional perspectives.
-
This grant can be awarded to cross-border teams of professional journalists and/or news outlets to conduct investigations into environmental affairs related to Europe (all the countries, not only the EU). The resulting stories must be published in at least two outlets in two different countries, at least one must be a European media. While news media and newsrooms still predominantly operate nationally, most power structures and societal and environmental problems transcend national boundaries. This grant programme is therefore aimed at cross-border teams of investigative journalists and newsrooms to investigate and document illegal, unreported and unregulated abuse of nature that involves European affairs in and outside Europe.
Actions must take place in Europe.
-
Cross-border teams of at least two professional journalists and/or news outlets can submit a proposal for a journalistic investigation about an issue that concerns the environment and relates to the European continent (islands included).
Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue
Deadline: 31st of August 2026
Budget: €N/A
The Mediterranean Capital of Culture & Dialogue initiative invites eligible cities to design and deliver a dynamic cultural programme that celebrates the diversity, heritage, and dialogue of the Euro-Mediterranean region.
-
The programme should offer a variety of events celebrating the diversity of the Euro-Mediterranean region, promote cultural involvement, ensure activity diversity, highlight local cultural heritage, prioritise local and regional efforts, address regional priorities identified by UfM member states, involve artists from across the region, build international partnerships, foster effective cooperation between the two designated capitals, demonstrate strong governance and management, ensure solid financial capacity, engage civil society actively, implement effective communication strategies, and minimise environmental impact.
A strong Euro-Mediterranean dimension is essential for a successful bid. Cities must align their proposals with regional priorities identified by UfM member states, actively involve artists from across the region, and seek meaningful international partnerships. Although two cities are designated each year, they must collaborate effectively while preparing and submitting independent applications. Any previous cooperation agreements between the candidate cities should be clearly referenced where applicable.
The active participation of civil society plays a decisive role in the selection process. Local authorities are expected to work closely with civil society actors in both the development and implementation of the programme. Partnerships with at least one civil society organisation belonging to the ALF National Networks are particularly valued and demonstrate a commitment to inclusive cultural dialogue.
Applications will be assessed based on the strength and coherence of the programme, the depth of its Euro-Mediterranean dimension, the quality of cooperation between the two capitals, governance and management structures, financial capacity, civil society engagement, communication strategy, and environmental responsibility.
Through this initiative, cities have the opportunity to position themselves as vibrant centres of culture and dialogue while reinforcing shared Mediterranean values and cooperation across borders.
-
Local and regional authorities, regardless of city size, are encouraged to apply provided they are located in a country that is a member of the Union for the Mediterranean, whether coastal or inland, and have not previously held the title of Mediterranean Capital of Culture & Dialogue. The programme must be strategically structured and demonstrate a consistent approach, culminating in a large-scale celebration on the Day of the Mediterranean that showcases the city’s proven ability to deliver high-quality cultural events.
CENTRES OF VOCATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Deadline: 3rd of September 2026
Budget: €8,000,000
This action supports the gradual establishment and development of international collaborative networks of Centres of Vocational Excellence.
-
Vocational Excellence aim at achieving the following objectives:
to ensure high quality skills through flexible and learner-centred VET provisions that lead to quality employment and career-long opportunities, swiftly responding to the needs of an innovative, inclusive and sustainable economy as well as to societal needs;
to support and act as drivers for local and regional development, innovation and social inclusion in the context of the green and digital transitions;
to contribute to upward convergence on VET excellence, to increase the quality of VET at system level in more and more countries;
to ensure that outputs and results are taken into use and have impact beyond the project partner organisations and beyond the project period.
Activities must take place in EU Member States or third countries associated to the Programme.
-
Any participating organisation established in an EU Member State or third country associated to the Programme can be the applicant. This organisation applies on behalf of all participating organisations involved in the project.
European Nuclear Skills Initiative
Deadline: 15th of September 2026
Budget: €1,600,000
The European Commission is offering to strengthen the nuclear workforce across Europe by advancing coordinated education, training, and skills development through a dedicated Nuclear Skills Academy.
-
Focus Areas, establishment of a European Nuclear Skills Academy, standardised curricula across vocational and academic levels, recognition of learning outcomes across Member States, targeted training programmes for Small Modular Reactors and advanced reactors, strengthening regulatory expertise for safety assessment and licensing, mobility schemes for critical nuclear professions, addressing nuclear skills shortages, development of nuclear workforce across all sub-sectors, alignment with EU nuclear policy frameworks, talent attraction, development and retention, support for future Net Zero Industry Academy, coordinated EU-wide nuclear skills strategy, capacity building in nuclear construction, engineering, operations and regulation.
Funding for the initiative is approximately €1,600,000, supporting the development and implementation of actions that contribute to the establishment of the European Nuclear Skills Academy and related activities.
The initiative is designed to complement and expand ongoing efforts in the nuclear skills domain by creating a unified and strategic approach to education and training across the European Union. A key component is the design and implementation of a European Nuclear Skills Academy that aligns training standards and promotes consistency in qualifications across different education levels.
The programme emphasizes the importance of launching targeted training programmes that build on existing initiatives, particularly in critical and emerging areas such as Small Modular Reactors and advanced nuclear technologies. It also seeks to strengthen the capabilities of national regulatory authorities by developing specialised expertise required for independent safety assessments and efficient licensing processes.
Another important aspect of the initiative is enhancing mobility opportunities for professionals in critical nuclear roles. By complementing existing mobility schemes, the programme aims to create tailored actions that address the specific needs of both industry and regulatory bodies, while generating best practices for future large-scale initiatives.
The broader scope of the initiative reflects the growing demand for skilled professionals across the nuclear sector, including construction workers, technicians, engineers, scientists, operators, and regulatory staff. It responds to the urgent need for coordinated action at the European level to address workforce shortages and ensure the safe and efficient implementation of nuclear energy plans.
The programme also aligns with wider European policy priorities, supporting long-term goals related to nuclear energy development, safety, and sustainability. It is intended to serve as a foundational step toward future initiatives, including potential contributions to a Net Zero Industry Academy and other EU-wide skills strategies.
-
Eligibility is open to any legal entity, including individuals, organisations, and institutions from EU Member States, non-associated third countries, and international organisations, provided they meet the conditions set out under the Horizon Europe framework and related regulations.
EUROPEAN MINI-SLATE DEVELOPMENT
Deadline: 17th of September 2026
Budget: €7,000,000
The objective of the European mini-slate development support is to foster the competitiveness of European independent production companies and to increase their economic weight on the market. The aim is also to increase the capacity of audiovisual producers to develop projects with the potential to circulate throughout Europe and beyond, and to facilitate European and international coproduction.
-
Expected results are:
· A stronger position on European and international markets for companies selected under European slate development.
· Increased quality, feasibility, cross-border potential and market value of European works supported.
Actions must take place in EU member states plus Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Tunisia and Ukraine.
-
Eligibility is limited to legal entities (public or private bodies).
Alleviating Household Energy Poverty Initiative
Deadline: 16th of September 2026
Budget: €6,000,000
The European Commission is inviting grant applications to support actions that reduce energy poverty across Europe by improving living conditions, energy efficiency, and access to sustainable energy solutions.
-
Energy poverty remains a significant challenge in Europe, with many households unable to maintain adequate indoor temperatures due to high energy costs, inefficient buildings, and limited financial resources. The issue is further intensified by extreme weather conditions, including rising summer heatwaves, which increase cooling needs and add pressure on vulnerable households.
The initiative aligns with broader European goals to ensure a fair and inclusive energy transition while addressing structural challenges in the energy system. It emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts across sectors such as energy, health, housing, and social policy, encouraging collaboration among public authorities, private stakeholders, and civil society.
Proposals under this initiative are expected to contribute directly to alleviating energy poverty by building on existing tools, indicators, and resources. Special attention is encouraged for actions targeting summer energy poverty and regions where support frameworks are less developed.
The initiative is divided into two distinct scopes. One scope focuses on supporting public authorities and stakeholders in establishing long-term coordination structures that enable cross-sector collaboration and strategic action to address energy poverty. The other scope focuses on facilitating the renovation of residential multi-apartment buildings in vulnerable areas to improve energy efficiency, reduce heating and cooling needs, and enhance the comfort and health of residents.
The total funding available for this initiative is €6,000,000.
-
Eligible applicants must be legal entities, either public or private, established in EU Member States or other countries associated with the LIFE Programme. The coordinating organisation must also be based in an eligible country.
ERC PROOF OF CONCEPT GRANT
Deadline: 17th of September 2026
Budget: €60,000,000
The ERC Proof of Concept Grants aim to maximise the value of the excellent research that the ERC funds, by funding further work (i.e. activities which were not scheduled to be funded by the original ERC frontier research grant) to verify the innovation potential of ideas arising from ERC funded projects. The objective is to provide funds to enable ERC-funded ideas to be brought to a pre-demonstration stage where potential commercialisation or societal opportunities have been identified.
-
The ERC Proof of Concept call aims at supporting ERC grant-holders to establish the innovation potential of their idea during the pre-demonstration phase. This would help among others: (1) establishing viability, technical issues and overall direction; (2) clarifying IPR position and strategy; (3) providing feedback for budgeting and other forms of commercial discussion; (4) providing connections to later stage funding; and (5) covering initial expenses for establishing a company.
Actions must take place in EU member states or Horizon Associated Country.
-
The ERC actions are open to researchers of any nationality who intend to conduct their research activity in any EU Member State or H2020 Associated Country. Principal Investigators may be of any age and nationality and may reside in any country in the world at the time of the application. ERC Principal Investigators do not have to be based full-time in Europe. The host institution must either be established in an EU Member State or Horizon Associated Country as a legal entity created under national law, or it may be an International European Interest Organisation (such as CERN, EMBL, etc.), the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) or any other entity created under EU law.
ERC CONSOLIDATOR GRANT
Deadline: 17th of September 2026
Budget: €2,000,000 per project
The ERC Consolidator Grants are designed to support excellent Principal Investigators at the career stage at which they may still be consolidating their own independent research team or programme.
-
Principal Investigators must demonstrate the ground-breaking nature, ambition and feasibility of their research proposal.
A competitive Consolidator Grant Principal Investigator should have already shown evidence of research independence.
Actions must take place in EU member states or Associated Country.
-
The ERC actions are open to researchers of any nationality who intend to conduct their research activity in any EU Member State or Horizon Associated Country. Principal Investigators may be of any age and nationality and may reside in any country in the world at the time of the application. The host institution must engage and host the Principal Investigator for at least the
duration of the project, as defined in the grant agreement.
NATURE AND BIODIVERSITY
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €166,000,000
Projects should fall under at least one of the two areas of intervention:
· Intervention area: “Space for Nature”
· Intervention area: “Safeguarding our species”
-
Intervention area: “Space for Nature”
Any project aimed at improving the condition of species or habitats through area- based conservation or restoration measures falls within the eligible scope of the intervention area “Space for Nature”. This may include, for example, projects for restoring or improving natural or semi-natural habitats, or habitats of species, both within and outside existing protected areas. This may also include projects for creating additional protected areas (or improving the biodiversity focus and contribution of existing protected areas), ecological corridors or other green infrastructure, projects testing or demonstrating new site management approaches, projects acting on pressures, etc.
Intervention area: “Safeguarding our species”
Any project aimed at improving the condition of species (or, in the case of invasive alien species, reducing their impact) through any relevant activities other than area-based conservation or restoration measures falls within the scope of the intervention area “Safeguarding our species”. Considering the broad range of threats that may act on species in addition to the degradation of their habitats, such projects may apply to a wide range of relevant measures, spanning from hard infrastructural works to awareness raising of stakeholders.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must be legal entities (public or private bodies) registered in an eligible country.
NATURE GOVERNANCE AND INFORMATION
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €5,500,000
Objective: To contribute to the protection of nature and biodiversity by:
· raising awareness of the benefits of nature conservation,
· supporting nature and biodiversity policy and legislation compliance assurance, and/or
· supporting access to justice in nature and biodiversity policy and legislation-related matters.
-
The present Call topic targets Standard Action Projects (SAP) aimed at achieving the objectives of the LIFE Nature and Biodiversity sub-programme by improving governance and information at all levels, as defined in sections 1 and 2 of the Call document. This call topic focuses exclusively on governance and information projects; other projects in line with the objectives of the LIFE Nature and Biodiversity sub-programme but defined in the Call topic LIFE-2026-SAP-NAT-NATURE are excluded.
LIFE projects shall take place in the territory of the European Union Member States plus Ukraine, Moldova, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Ukraine.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must be legal entities (public or private bodies) registered in an eligible country.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PREPARATION OF SNAPS
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €500,000
Provides financial support for the preparation of a proposal for a Strategic Nature Project (SNaP) to implement
· a Priority Action Framework (PAF), National Restoration Plans, or other plans or strategies on international, national, regional or multiregional level that implement EU nature and/or biodiversity policy or legislation
· at large territorial scale
· with the involvement of all concerned stakeholders and
· including a coordination mechanism for funding supporting complementary measures necessary for the full implementation of the targeted PAF (or other eligible strategy).
-
Proposals must relate to activities taking place in EU countries, Ukraine, Moldova, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Ukraine.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must: be legal entities (public or private bodies).
CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €28,000,000
Objective:Projects under the Climate Change Mitigation Priority Area will support the implementation of the European Green Deal by contributing to the objectives and targets set out in the EU Climate Law and to the intermediate Union climate target to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% compared to 1990 levels by 2030.
-
Areas of intervention:
· Recovery, recycle and reclamation of ozone-depleting substances in foams and suitability of alternatives to fluorinated greenhouse gases and their recovery, reclamation and recycling;
· Actions to support the shift to zero-emission mobility in road transport;
· Decarbonising other transport modes, fostering intermodality and modal shift;
· Increase the generation and use of renewable energy and improvement of energy efficiency;
· Actions which reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in industrial production and waste management;
· Development and implementation of land and coastal management practices which have an impact on emissions and carbon removals, including the conservation and enhancement of natural carbon sinks in soils and forests and the storage of carbon in long-lasting products;
· Industrial solutions for carbon removal, carbon capture and use and/or storage.
LIFE projects shall take place in the territory of the European Union Member States plus Ukraine, Moldova, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Ukraine.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must be legal entities (public or private bodies) registered in an eligible country.
CLIMATE GOVERNANCE AND INFORMATION
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €4,000,000
LIFE Climate Change Governance and Information aims at supporting the development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of the Union legislation and policy on climate change, contributing to climate change mitigation and/or adaptation. This includes improving governance through enhancing the capacities of public and private actors and the involvement of civil society.
-
Areas of Intervention:
· Raising awareness, incentivising behavioural change and supporting the activities of the European Climate Pact;
· Green skills & capacity building to implement climate mitigation and adaptation policies;
· Building capacity, raising awareness among end-users and the equipment distribution chain of fluorinated greenhouse gases;
· Support to the development, update and implementation of national, regional or local climate and energy strategies and plans;
· Activities linked to the implementation of Sustainable Finance actions;
LIFE projects shall take place in the territory of the European Union Member States plus Ukraine, Moldova, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Ukraine.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must be legal entities (public or private bodies) registered in an eligible country.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PREPARATION OF ENV SIPS
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €300,000
This call provides financial support for the preparation of a proposal for a Strategic Integrated Project under the sub-programme Circular Economy and Quality of Life in the areas of Circular Economy, Waste, Water and Air.
-
In order to implement
· National or regional Circular Economy Action Plans, National and regional Waste Management Plans, River Basin Management Plans or Air Quality Plans
· at large territorial scale
· with the involvement of all concerned stakeholders and
· including a coordination mechanism for funding supporting complementary measures necessary for the full implementation of the targeted plan or strategy.
Proposals must relate to activities taking place in EU countries, Ukraine, Moldova, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Ukraine.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must: be legal entities (public or private bodies).
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PREPARATION OF CLIMA SIPS
Deadline: 22nd of September 2026
Budget: €200,000
This call provides financial support for the preparation of a proposal for a Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) under the sub-programme for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
-
In order to implement one of the following
· National Energy and Climate Plans (NECP) including Long-Term Strategies (LTS), Regulation on the governance of the energy union and climate action (EU)2018/1999,
· National adaptation strategies and plans pursuant to Article 5 of the Regulation 2021/1119 (‘European Climate Law’), or regional adaptation strategies or action plans,
· Urban or community-based action plans pioneering the transition to a climate neutral and/or climate resilient society, including climate-neutral cities plans and actions, for instance in the context of the EU Mission ‘Climate neutral and smart cities’ and Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans, and
· National, regional or industry-/sector-specific greenhouse gas mitigation strategies or low carbon economy roadmaps
Proposals must relate to activities taking place in EU countries, Ukraine and Moldova and North Macedonia, Montenegro, Ukraine.
-
In order to be eligible, the applicants (beneficiaries and affiliated entities) must: be legal entities (public or private bodies).
Funding Opportunity for Sustainable Research Collaboration and Innovation Networks
Deadline: 24th of September 2026
Budget: €7,000,000
The European Commission is inviting grant applications to strengthen cooperation and ensure the long-term impact of Centres of Excellence by promoting joint initiatives and collaborative innovation efforts.
-
The programme focuses on strengthening long-term collaboration among Centres of Excellence through joint initiatives and clustering, enabling strategic transformation of research and innovation systems, promoting multidisciplinary and transnational cooperation to address European and global challenges, advancing priorities such as responsible AI usage, knowledge valorisation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship, increasing visibility and recognition of Centres of Excellence, improving synergies with national and European programmes, fostering strategic clustering and thematic collaboration, supporting pilot implementation of collaborative clusters, building capacity for knowledge valorisation, enabling networking and matchmaking with industry and policymakers, developing digital platforms for collaboration, organising international conferences, and supporting entrepreneurship and technology transfer activities.
This initiative aims to build on previous investments in Centres of Excellence established under Teaming calls, particularly in Widening countries, by enhancing their sustainability and international competitiveness. It seeks to create stronger collaboration frameworks and shared initiatives that maximise the scientific, societal, and economic impact of these centres.
The scope of the call includes fostering collaboration among existing and future Centres of Excellence through structured activities such as strategic clustering, pilot implementation of joint initiatives, and capacity building programmes. It also encourages the development of networking opportunities, digital platforms, and international events to facilitate continuous interaction between research institutions, industry, and policymakers.
The programme provides funding of €7,000,000 to support comprehensive project proposals that bring together a wide range of expertise aligned with the proposed activities. It is designed to ensure that research outputs are translated into practical innovations and that collaboration leads to sustainable growth and impact.
-
Eligibility is open to any legal entity regardless of location, including organisations from non-associated third countries and international organisations, provided they meet the conditions set under the Horizon Europe Regulation and other applicable requirements. Entities may include organisations with legal personality or those recognised under relevant legal frameworks that can participate in collaborative research and innovation activities.
Enhanced Cognitive Electronic Warfare System with Intelligent Signal Analysis
Deadline: 29th of September 2026
Budget: €24,000,000
The European Commission is spearheading a transformative initiative to develop next-generation cognitive electronic warfare systems that combine artificial intelligence, advanced signal analysis, and multi-sensor integration to safeguard EU maritime interests and maintain technological superiority.
-
This initiative focuses on integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced digital and radiofrequency technologies to transition from multiple independent sensors to a multi-sensor netted approach, enhancing situational awareness. The objectives include developing scalable and adaptable systems capable of operating with unmanned vehicles, leveraging cognitive capabilities to accelerate decision-making and response times, automating certain threat responses, and improving operability, maintainability, and interoperability across EU platforms. The program also prioritizes the demonstration of AI-enhanced radar electronic support measures (RESM) and communications electronic support measures (CESM) within a demonstrator, aligning with ongoing EU initiatives and contributing to deep and digital technology objectives under STEP.
The increasing complexity of modern naval operations necessitates electronic warfare systems capable of handling multiple simultaneous threats in electromagnetically congested environments. Current solutions are limited, requiring complex integration of diverse sensors and frequency bands. This topic aims to develop cognitive EW systems that can detect, learn, and interact with the operational environment using AI and machine learning. Such systems will interpret large volumes of data from multiple sources, operate autonomously, provide faster and higher-quality intelligence, and automate system responses to improve reaction times in critical situations.
Proposals should focus on the development of a technology integration demonstrator combining hardware and software, integrating the cognitive model with multiband RF modules, and proving enhanced operational capabilities. Feasibility assessments should address the availability of necessary data, including classified information, and define mitigations where access is limited. The use of FSTP should be described when applicable, along with contributions from relevant experts.
-
Eligible participants include legal entities, public or private, established in EU Member States or EDF-associated countries, with executive management in eligible countries and free from control by non-associated third-country entities unless approved guarantees are provided. The indicative budget for this call under the EDF-2026-DA program is EUR 24,000,000, covering studies, design, and eligible development actions upstream and downstream.
Development of GNSS Modules with NAVWAR Capabilities for PRS Defence Integration
Deadline: 29th of September 2026
Budget: €50,000,000
The European Defence Fund (EDF) is supporting the development of advanced navigation technologies to enhance the resilience and effectiveness of defence systems under contested conditions.
-
The focus areas of this initiative include the development of Galileo Public Regulated Service (PRS) GNSS modules with Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR) capabilities, integration into EU Member States and EDF Associated Countries’ defence systems, compatibility with size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements for missiles and guided munitions, environmental and kinematic compliance, the creation of a common interface control document (ICD), demonstration of effectiveness under blue force electronic attack (BFEA), and alignment with the STEP objectives in deep and digital technologies.
This project aims to design, prototype, test, and qualify GNSS modules that are capable of maintaining accurate positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) performance under NAVWAR conditions. The modules will be engineered to fit within the SWaP constraints of small-sized guided munitions while ensuring operational reliability during real firing tests. The proposals will need to demonstrate the performance and robustness of these prototypes in representative NAVWAR environments, specifically under conditions of electronic interference targeting friendly forces.
Proposals must not focus on non-defence civilian applications, purely theoretical frameworks, or unrelated technological domains. Additionally, where Fast-Track to Prototype (FSTP) approaches are employed, the proposals must clearly outline their implementation plan and the contribution of entities with relevant expertise.
The indicative budget for this call is EUR 50,000,000 under the EDF-2026-DA call, reflecting the strategic priority of strengthening defence systems’ resilience and interoperability across Europe.
-
Eligible participants include legal entities, public or private, established within EU Member States, including overseas countries and territories, or in EDF-associated non-EU countries, provided they maintain executive management structures in these eligible countries and are not under the control of non-associated third countries without approved guarantees.
Ammunition Waste Collection and Disposal Unmanned Platform
Deadline: 29th of September 2026
Budget: €10,000,000
The European Commission is currently accepting grant applications to support the detection, collection, and disposal of hazardous military residues while reducing human risk.
-
The initiative focuses on reducing human involvement in military waste cleanup, improving environmental protection, supporting green military practices, and enhancing safety. It emphasizes autonomous and energy-efficient ground platforms, UAV integration, AI-assisted target detection and classification, platform cooperation and swarming, and clean and resource-efficient technologies in line with STEP objectives.
The indicative budget for this topic under the call is EUR 10,000,000, as part of an overall budget of EUR 422,000,000 allocated to this call, supporting studies, design, prototyping, testing, qualification, and certification, including eligible upstream and downstream development activities.
Military exercises and combat operations generate hazardous residues, including inert casings, dud projectiles, drone wreckage, explosive residues, and buried unexploded ordnance. These can harm wildlife, agriculture, and humans. Automating cleanup reduces risk, improves efficiency, and allows faster restoration of affected areas.
Proposals should develop autonomous, energy-efficient, and self-repairable ground platforms equipped with tools, sensors, and algorithms for surface and sub-surface target recovery. Platforms should navigate efficiently, classify and sort detected items, and prepare them for transport and recycling. UAV technology with advanced sensors should be used for mapping and detection, while AI and assisted learning improve classification and target identification.
Swarming and platform cooperation concepts are encouraged to enhance safety, allow operations beyond communication ranges, and increase scalability. Additional sensors to detect toxic or harmful substances and autonomous UAV charging from ground platforms can be included. Projects must not duplicate existing initiatives or address emplaced weapons like mines and IEDs.
-
Eligible participants are legal entities established in EU Member States, EDF-associated countries, or EEA countries, with executive management in eligible countries and no control from non-associated third countries unless guarantees are provided.
Enhanced Semi-Autonomous Naval Vessels
Deadline: 29th of September 2026
Budget: €90,000,000
The European Commission is inviting grant applications to develop and qualify an enhanced medium-sized semi-autonomous surface vessel to support strengthened coastal defence and flexible multi-mission naval operations in littoral environments.
-
The initiative focuses on advancing medium-size semi-autonomous surface vessels into flexible, fast-moving platforms adaptable to littoral conditions and future naval warfare missions. It prioritises integrated ISR and ASuW capabilities, modular mission integration including SBW, ASW, NMW and NMCM modules, semi-autonomous and remote operation with human-on-the-loop control, reduced manning, dual-use and commercial technology integration to lower costs, AI-enabled collaborative operations with multi-domain drones, offshore logistics concepts, and contribution to the STEP objectives in defence technologies.
The indicative budget for this topic under the call is EUR 90,000,000, forming part of an overall budget of EUR 422,000,000 allocated to the call.
This call follows up on previous EDF-supported activities in the field of medium-size semi-autonomous surface vessels. It aims to review earlier concepts and designs while enabling new design, prototyping, testing, and qualification activities for an enhanced medium-sized semi-autonomous surface (EMSAS) vessel. The platform should be capable of hosting multiple mission modules and operating effectively in complex littoral environments.
Semi-autonomy includes the option for remote operation of both the vessel and its mission modules, while autonomy allows operation under human-on-the-loop supervision, including onboard self-protection systems. Onboard human control solutions must be available for non-permanent use in no-threat conditions, with a focus on reduced manning. Dual-use technologies and commercial applications should be prioritised to optimise cost efficiency.
Proposals must address the evolution of the vessel platform, including full physical and logical integration of mission modules and solutions for remote monitoring and control. A detailed design and prototype of the EMSAS vessel with integrated ISR and ASuW capabilities is required, along with prototypes of SBW and ASW mission modules. Testing and qualification of the vessel and modules as a complete system are mandatory. Initial design activities up to preliminary design review are required for a mission module related to NMW, while progress should also consider NMCM modules, collaborative drone operations supported by AI, and offshore logistics concepts.
-
Eligible participants must be legal entities established in EU Member States, EDF-associated countries, or EEA countries, with executive management in eligible countries and not controlled by non-associated third countries unless approved guarantees are provided.
AI-Based Military Simulation & Decision Support
Deadline: 29th of September 2026
Budget: €16,000,000
The European Defence Fund is advancing a major initiative to assess the feasibility of establishing a comprehensive AI framework for defence applications to strengthen tactical intelligence, simulation capabilities, and military decision-making across the European Union.
-
The focus areas of this topic include assessing the feasibility of creating an AI framework for defence applications; providing military simulation capabilities; integrating historical datasets; developing a rich scenario and benchmark database; enabling access to doctrinal models and outputs from previously developed AI services; supporting war games and combat simulations; facilitating AI-enabled battlespace simulation; enhancing situational awareness and decision-making support; connecting to C2 systems and synthetic training environments; managing and contextualising data for AI learning; supporting instructor-led training systems; testing future human-machine interaction concepts; enabling validation of tactical intelligence solutions; developing a continuous, scalable, reusable and flexible AI development environment; and contributing to deep and digital technologies under the STEP Regulation.
With a total funding budget of EUR 110,000,000 and an indicative allocation of EUR 16,000,000 under the EDF-2026-RA call, this topic supports research actions where each proposal may request up to EUR 8,000,000. The initiative is positioned as a study and design action, while not excluding upstream and downstream research activities.
In a defence modelling and simulation context, artificial intelligence is expected to deliver tactical intelligence in near real time by strengthening operational awareness and providing advanced planning and decision-support tools. The envisioned AI framework is designed as a robust and adaptive system that enhances operational efficiency while ensuring interoperability, security, and responsiveness across persistent military environments such as training, exercises, and rehearsals.
The framework aims to unify tactical intelligence and decision-making capabilities by integrating command and control systems with synthetic training environments. It will collect, combine, clean, and contextualise historical and doctrinal data so that AI systems can learn, extract insights, and generate actionable guidance. By linking directly to end users, including C2 operators and training instructors, the framework will enable practical testing and validation of innovative tactical intelligence concepts within development and experimentation settings.
A key ambition of the topic is to address varying levels of AI maturity and standards across EU Member States and EDF associated countries by investigating how to create a scalable and reusable AI development environment. The objective is to ensure seamless integration of capabilities into a cost-effective and persistent military ecosystem.
Through this initiative, the programme seeks to accelerate innovation in military modelling and simulation systems while reinforcing Europe’s strategic autonomy in advanced digital and defence technologies.
-
Eligibility requirements specify that applicants must be legal entities established in eligible countries, including EU Member States and certain associated countries, with executive management structures located in those countries and without control by non-associated third countries unless appropriate guarantees are provided.
AAdvancing Radar Technologies for Hypersonic and UAV Threats
Deadline: 29th of September 2026
Budget: €20,000,000
The European Commission is providing significant funding to develop a next-generation radar demonstrator capable of detecting and tracking hypersonic glide vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in complex and dynamic environments.
-
This initiative, with a total budget of €110,000,000 and an indicative funding of €20,000,000 under the EDF-2026-RA call, focuses on creating advanced radar technologies that can automatically adjust waveforms and signal processing in real-time to counter the effects of high-speed manoeuvring hypersonic threats and changing radar cross-section characteristics, classify and track UAVs in cluttered environments using machine learning algorithms, implement feedback loops between received and transmitted signals to optimize detection and tracking performance, and demonstrate improved operational ranges and resilience against electronic countermeasures.
Hypersonic vehicles, with extreme speed and manoeuvrability, present substantial detection challenges, further complicated by variable radar cross-section properties. Concurrently, the proliferation of UAVs for intelligence and reconnaissance missions necessitates the development of effective anti-UAV radar systems. The demonstrator will serve as an engineering development model to test and validate innovative radar technologies, assess their maturity, feasibility, and operational applicability, and reduce risks associated with future full-scale sensor deployment.
By leveraging artificial intelligence and cognitive methods, the radar system will dynamically select optimal waveform-receiver filter combinations, maximizing detection and tracking performance in complex operational scenarios. This effort also contributes to the STEP program objectives, specifically in the target investment area of deep and digital technologies, strengthening Europe’s defence capabilities.
-
Eligibility requirements specify that applicants must be legal entities established in eligible countries, including EU Member States and certain associated countries, with executive management structures located in those countries and without control by non-associated third countries unless appropriate guarantees are provided.
EUROPEAN CROSS-BORDER GRANTS
Deadline: 1st of October 2026
Budget: €1,600,000
The aim of Journalismfund.eu is to promote quality journalism in Europe by giving journalists the chance to carry out journalistic research projects. Journalismfund.eu will support professional journalists, who have good ideas for cross-border research and for research on European affairs. The stories must be relevant for European target groups.
-
The project should be one that, in principle, could not be realised in this format within the remit of regular journalism – a project that can include cross-border research, networking between colleagues, established and innovative investigative methods and that is at the same time original, innovative and intensive.
Journalismfund.eu supports costs related to journalistic research for all media. This can include travel, translation, access to pay-databases or simply time to research. They do not support fixed costs such as office costs, investments such as cameras or computers or production costs.
Actions must take place in Europe.
-
Teams of journalists from at least two countries in geographical Europe are eligible to apply. When relevant for the story, team members from elsewhere can be accepted too.
Apply AI: Piloting AI-based image screening in medical centres DIGITAL-2026-AI-PILOTING-10-SCREENING
Deadline: 1st of October 2026
Budget: €9,000,000
One or more proofs-of-concept of replicable, scalable cloud-based AI/GenAI systems for analysis of medical imaging data in a healthcare setting, with demonstration of the role of the clinicians in validating AI/GenAI findings and reports showcasing seamless integration of the system into clinical workflows.
Evidence-based analysis of (cost-)efficiency of the piloted solutions for healthcare systems for regulatory and HTA purposes.
-
Each project awarded in this action should implement a scalable cloud-based AI/GenAI system running European trustworthy and safe AI/GenAI algorithms that were developed, trained and validated using very large sets of patient data. They should put in place a secure, privacy-preserving cloud environment required for the health data analysis tasks, with appropriate access and identification tools for authorised use only, and implement the whole system as described under this topic, seamlessly integrated in regular clinical workflows of the care settings involved. Interoperability and the need to communicate with the health IT infrastructure (e.g. the electronic health record (EHR) of the patient, Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS), Radiological Information Systems (RIS), etc.) need to be addressed.
The projects should demonstrate the integration and large-scale validation of cloud-based AI/GenAI systems, following a thorough assessment and testing over a large number of patient test cases in real healthcare settings. The proposers are expected to choose the types of health data, the AI/GenAI algorithms that are trustworthy and secure, and the medical use cases, with the focus disease areas being cancer and cardiovascular. The projects should perform technical and clinical validation of the systems, generating evidence on AI systems’ performance and usability in different clinical settings. They shall use the AI systems for screening in clinical settings, perform local performance evaluation and post-deployment monitoring of the solutions, including evidence generation on cost-efficiency in view of regulatory requirements and health technology assessment (HTA). Whenever relevant, each project should deploy AI/GenAI solutions already tested and validated within the TEF for Health.
-
Eligible applicants must be:
Legal entities established in:
EU Member States
Countries associated to the Digital Europe Programme
DRK Foundation: Empowering Early-Stage Social Impact Organizations
Deadline: 30th of December 2026
Budget: €500,000
The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation supports early-stage organizations working on innovative, scalable solutions to critical social and environmental challenges affecting underserved communities DRK focuses on supporting organizations that are problem-first, systems-thinking, scalable, geographically aligned, independent entities, financially sustainable, and able to demonstrate measurable evidence of impact.
-
DRK Foundation supports its grantees and investees through a combination of capacity, capital, and community. At the core of its model is deep operational and technical support, which includes a dedicated hands-on Board service role and specialist capacity-building resources across leadership and board development, organizational and fundraising capacity building, financial sustainability, and scaling strategy thinking. One of DRK’s senior team members typically takes a board service role for a three-year period, offering guidance and often engaging in weekly conversations to help the organization navigate its path to scale. The broader DRK portfolio support team also provides targeted assistance, such as refining financial models, establishing a talent strategy, or enhancing fundraising capacity, with total in-kind support valued at up to $500,000 USD.
In addition to capacity support, DRK provides up to $300,000 USD in either unrestricted grant funding or investment capital over a three-year period, typically in multiple tranches. The structure and timing of funding are determined collaboratively with the organization during the closing process. Beyond direct support, DRK fosters community by convening its portfolio and alumni annually, facilitating both in-person and digital connections through small meetings, large gatherings, and a three-day annual portfolio retreat.
-
DRK Foundation primarily funds organizations at the early stage, defined as post-pilot and pre-scale, where the program, product, or service is already in use and showing early impact on the intended beneficiaries. Organizations are typically two to five years old, though younger or older entities may also be considered. For for-profit organizations, DRK usually supports Seed to Series A ventures, generally refraining from leading investment rounds or participating in financings exceeding a $15M USD post-money valuation.
Phortify Internship (Traineeship) Grants - Pilot Call PHORTIFY
Deadline: 3rd of February 2027
Budget: €91,800
PHOtonics education netwoRk for nexT-gen Innovation and digital skills excellence For industrY and society
-
Under this call, Phortify internships refer to short-term, practice-oriented placements, as foreseen in the Phortify Grant Agreement. They are learning-based activities and do not constitute employment.
The Phortify Internship Grants support both students enrolled in Phortify Master’s Degree Programmes and students who are not enrolled in a Phortify Master’s programme, provided that the internship is Phortify-labelled, aligned with the objectives of the Phortify project, and carried out in accordance with the Phortify Grant Agreement.
Participating partners:
Activer Fiber Systems (AFS):
ICFO - The Institute of Photonic Sciences:
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e):
- Master of Science in Applied Physics
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering: track (1) Semicon Devices and track (2) Connected World Technologies
Warsaw University of Technology (WUT):
- Master of Science in Mechatronics
- Master of Science In Photonics
Friedrich Schiller University (FSU):
- Master of Science in Photonics
- Master of Science in Quantum Science & Technology
-
The primary eligible applicants are:
· Students enrolled in specific PHORTIFY-linked programmes
You must be formally enrolled in a participating PHORTIFY Master’s programme
Specifically linked to:
Photonics / digital skills programmes within the PHORTIFY network
Example pathway:
Enrolled in MSc (e.g. at Vrije Universiteit Brussel or Ghent University)
Completing PHORTIFY-labelled courses (typically ≥30 ECTS)
Phortify Grants for Master Thesis Project - Pilot Call PHORTIFY
Deadline: 3rd of February 2027
Budget: €6,300
PHOtonics education netwoRk for nexT-gen Innovation and digital skills excellence For industrY and society
-
Phortify Grants for Master Thesis Projects provide financial support to Master’s students undertaking a thesis project that is aligned with the thematic areas and objectives of the Phortify project and carried out in collaboration with an industrial or research partner of the Phortify consortium.
Under this pilot call, the grants support the carrying out of Master’s thesis projects offered by and implemented in collaboration with SMART Photonics, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in an industrial research and innovation environment while addressing real-world challenges in photonics and related digital technologies.
The grants are intended to contribute to costs directly related to the successful completion of the Master’s thesis project, including living, mobility, and other study-related expenses incurred during the thesis period, in line with the objectives of the Phortify project.
Participating partners:
SMART Photonics: https://smartphotonics.nl/
-
The call is targeted exclusively at Master’s-level students:
· Students currently enrolled in a Master’s programme
· Thesis must be ongoing or planned
· Field must align with:
Photonics
Applied physics / engineering / related digital technologies
This is not an institutional grant — it is individual student funding (cascade funding).
Phortify Mobility Grants - Pilot Call PHORTIFY
Deadline: 3rd of February 2027
Budget: €18,200
PHOtonics education netwoRk for nexT-gen Innovation and digital skills excellence For industrY and society
-
Phortify Mobility Grants provide financial support to students and doctoral candidates participating in short-term mobility activities such as workshops, summer schools, conferences, and other events relevant to the thematic areas and objectives of the Phortify project.
Supported activities are learning- and training-oriented, contribute to skills development in photonics and related digital technologies, and are implemented under the responsibility of Phortify partner institutions.
Participating partners:
Ghent University (UGENT):
- Master of Science in Photonics Engineering (120 ECTS)
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e):
- Master of Science in Applied Physics (120 ECTS)
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (120 ECTS): track (1) Semicon Devices and track (2) Connected World Technologies
Warsaw University of Technology (WUT):
- Master of Science in Mechatronics (90 ECTS)
- Master of Science In Photonics (90 ECTS)
Friedrich Schiller University (FSU):
- Master of Science in Photonics (120 ECTS)
- Master of Science in Quantum Science & Technology (120 ECTS)
-
Primary target applicants:
· Students (Master’s level)
· Early-stage researchers
· Professionals in photonics or related fields
The programme is explicitly designed for:
· Individuals developing advanced digital/photonics skills
Participants linked to Phortify educational pathways
Strategic Fund Supporting Women’s Rights and Gender Justice in Nigeria
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €1,200,000
The ActionAid Nigeria, with funding from Global Affairs Canada through the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership Project, invites Expressions of Interest for the Strategic Opportunity Fund to support timely and impactful interventions that advance the rights of women and girls in Nigeria.
-
The Strategic Opportunity Fund focuses on emergency interventions, critical advocacy interventions, and protection and support for women human rights defenders, with an emphasis on rapid response, gender equality, gender justice, systemic change, and inclusion of structurally excluded groups. The Strategic Opportunity Fund is designed as a fast, responsive funding mechanism to enable women’s rights organizations, women’s rights networks, and women human rights defenders to implement short-term interventions that deliver immediate and measurable benefits for women and girls. The fund supports rapid action to protect rights, sustain advocacy, and respond effectively to emerging gender-related challenges, particularly in crisis or rapidly evolving contexts.
Funding under the Emergency Intervention Fund provides grants of up to N10,000,000 per project, with up to twelve grants awarded annually. The Critical Intervention Fund offers grants of up to N6,000,000 per project, with up to thirteen grants available each year. The Women Human Rights Defenders Intervention Fund provides grants of up to N17,711,495 per project, with up to four grants awarded annually.
Applicants may apply under only one funding category. The Emergency Intervention Fund supports responses to urgent or unforeseen situations such as natural disasters, conflict-related crises, political instability, or sudden policy changes that negatively affect women and girls. The Critical Intervention Fund supports short-term advocacy and strategic opportunities aimed at influencing policy change, amplifying women’s voices, and strengthening women’s movement building efforts. The Women Human Rights Defenders Intervention Fund provides protection and emergency assistance to women human rights defenders facing threats, intimidation, or violence as a result of their activism, ensuring their safety, wellbeing, and continued engagement.
-
The call is open to women-led organizations, women’s rights networks, and women human rights defenders operating in Nigeria. Eligible applicants must demonstrate that their proposed intervention is strategic, time-sensitive, and capable of achieving measurable impact for women and girls. Proposals should clearly show how the intervention advances gender equality and gender justice, contributes to systemic change, and complements existing initiatives. Applicants must also demonstrate the capacity to implement the intervention within a short timeframe. Priority is given to initiatives supporting structurally excluded groups, including women and girls with disabilities, those in conflict settings, women and girls on the move or returnees, female inmates, survivors of gender-based violence, out-of-school girls, elderly women, and women in politics.
OPEC FUND FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM 2025
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: € Not available
The OPEC Fund for International Development is accepting applications for its grant program to provide financial assistance to developing countries, particularly low-income countries, in support of their economic and social development efforts.
-
Under its grant program, OPEC Fund could extend three types of grants:
Grants for country-specific activities and projects:
This type of grant could cover any of the following activities:
Technical assistance grants for project preparation, including prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and final design of projects where there is potential for OPEC Fund’s participation;
Grant components of a larger project and program financed by the OPEC Fund through its public sector (sovereign loans) and/or private sector and trade finance facilities;
Institutional capacity building of relevant government agencies of partner countries (training of staff in project design, preparation, monitoring and evaluation) with the aim of facilitating the implementation of OPEC Fund operations and helping these agencies better prepare future projects;
Stand-alone projects or activities that are not directly linked to a specific OPEC Fund project
Grants for special development initiatives of global or regional scope:
This type of grant supports selected initiatives and programs aimed at addressing development challenges faced by OPEC Fund’s partner countries and which require a high level of cross-border cooperation.
Emergency aid grants:
OPEC Fund provides this type of grant in support of humanitarian relief operations, including material or logistical assistance delivered for humanitarian purposes. This aid also supports interventions aimed at rehabilitating basic infrastructure and restoring access to basic services in partner countries in the aftermath of conflicts or natural disasters.
Priority Sectors and Areas
While the OPEC Fund has financed projects in agriculture, energy, health, transportation and water and sanitation sectors, it aims to be a demand-driven organization responsive to the needs of its partner countries.
In addition, and as noted earlier, it provides emergency aid assistance and supports selected regional and global initiatives, especially those addressing priority issues in the sustainable development agenda.
Funding Information
The amount of OPEC Fund contribution will vary according to the scope and the nature of the proposed grant activity or project. However, and with the exception of emergency aid and small grants in amounts of up to US$100,000, OPEC Fund’s contribution to a stand-alone project should not exceed 50% of the total cost of the said project.
-
In line with the Agreement establishing the OPEC Fund, developing countries other than OPEC Member Countries are eligible for OPEC Fund’s grant assistance, with special consideration to the needs of LDCs.
While the main criteria for extending a grant will be the developmental impact of the activity or project concerned, for country-specific grants, particularly those linked to OPEC Fund’s sovereign operations, other criteria will be also considered. These include countries’ capacities as well as special circumstances. In this regard, and in recognition of their special circumstances and specific development challenges, the OPEC Fund will extend grants in support of selected initiatives targeting small island development states (SIDS), and conflict-affected and fragile states, especially SIDS that are also categorized by the United Nations as LDCs.
Eligible Partners
Eligible partners are any government or non-government entity, including cofinancing partners, private sector entities, research entities, UN agencies and international NGOs.
All grantees, should meet the following eligibility criteria:
Provide evidence of currently valid legal registration under the laws of the country in which they operate, as well as evidence of a certificate to do business in the country in which they intend to carry out the relevant activity, if different from the place of legal registration.
Have a good track record in the implementation of OPEC Fund projects and activities, and in the case of new partners, a good track record in executing/implementing similar donor Funded projects in the targeted region and country;
Have proven technical expertise in the area/sector covered;
Have appropriate organizational and management capacity, and show the existence of a sound financial system, including clear accounting and budgeting standards, audited financial statements that are audited by a registered auditor, a transparent budgeting process, and other indicators that confirm their capacity to assume fiduciary (supervision and implementation) responsibility for OPEC Fund.
GENDER EQUALITY GRANTS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting partners with individual journalists and news organizations to support in-depth, high-impact reporting on topics of global importance, including investigations of systemic problems that are often overlooked by mainstream U.S. media. They accept applications to fund reporting projects from freelance and staff journalists as well as assignment editors at news outlets.
-
Women and girls are disproportionately affected by global crises and face discrimination and violence worldwide. In the fight against the disparities they endure, they show resilience, strength, and leadership. The Gender Equality Grant is designed to help journalists take to a new level the reporting on issues related to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. They value stories that elevate the voices of communities not often represented in the media, stories of resilience, and projects that tackle systemic issues of gender equality using data and investigative reporting.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
Grants are open to U.S. residents and journalists around the world. They are open to proposals from freelance journalists, staff journalists, or groups of newsrooms working in collaboration with a project idea. They want to make sure that people from many backgrounds and perspectives are empowered to produce journalism. They strongly encourage proposals from journalists and newsrooms who represent a broad array of social, racial, ethnic, underrepresented groups, and economic backgrounds.
AI REPORTING GRANTS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The Pulitzer Center seeks applications for the reporting initiative focused on AI and surveillance technologies and their impact on communities around the world. They value accountability and data reporting, collaborations, and cross-discipline approaches. Staff and freelance journalists are eligible. They welcome in-depth stories that explore with nuance how AI systems are designed, sold and deployed in communities around the world.
-
They encourage applications for all formats of reporting and also on lesser reported topics, including:
AI industry supply chains
Procurement processes for algorithmic and surveillance systems
Environmental impacts of AI
AI & disinformation networks
AI warfare
AI regulation and governance
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
Grants are open to all journalists: writers, photographers, radio producers, and filmmakers; staff journalists as well as freelancers.
UNSOLICITED CONCEPT NOTES WITH IDRC
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €400,000 up to 120m
The IDRC’s mandate is to conduct research into the problems of the developing regions of the world and into the means for applying and adapting scientific, technical, and other knowledge to the economic and social advancement of those regions. In doing so, they make an important contribution to Canada’s foreign policy.
-
-
They fund research in the areas of:
· Climate-Resilient Food Systems: they fund research that helps build inclusive and sustainable food systems. Their work helps develop resilience among communities severely affected by climate change and address emerging health threats that arise from food systems.
· Health: they strengthen health systems and policies so they can deliver better maternal and child health, improved sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and girls, and more effective and equitable preparedness and responses to epidemics.
· Education and Science: they support research to ensure children and youth from vulnerable populations are in school and benefit from high-quality education. They also support women’s leadership in strong science systems that produce knowledge and innovation and improve lives.
· Democratic and Inclusive Governance: they invest in research and innovation so that people around the world can enjoy the benefits that democracy and inclusive governance bring to everyday life. Their work on democracy and how countries are governed supports tangible improvements for everyone, especially women, minorities, refugees, and other groups that are denied their rightful place in civic life.
· Sustainable Inclusive Economies: they build the evidence base to support sustainable development that reduces greenhouse gas emissions. They enhance climate resiliency, foster shared prosperity, and expand economic opportunities for women and youth.
They are working in selected countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East.
Developing-country researchers, institutions, and Canadian researchers are eligible.
P4G CALL FOR PARTNERSHIPS APPLICATION
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €350,000
P4G is now accepting applications for partnerships working on climate mitigation or adaptation solutions in the areas of food, energy and water. Partnerships must comprise at least one early-stage business and one nonprofit organization implementing in one of P4G’s ODA-eligible partner countries: Colombia, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kenya, South Africa and Vietnam. Applicants must provide services or products that contribute to poverty alleviation, gender equity and economic growth in one of the following sub-sectors: climate-smart agriculture, food loss and waste, water resilience, zero emission mobility and renewable energy.
-
P4G will provide grant funding and technical assistance to help the early-stage business in the partnership become investment ready. To be considered for the next funding round, partnerships should submit their proposal by March 7, 2025. All applications must be submitted in English.
The program is open to partnerships operating in P4G’s ODA-eligible partner countries, which include Colombia, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
-
The eligibility criteria require partnerships to comprise at least one early-stage climate business and one NGO administrative partner. Applicants must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the sectoral, policy, and regulatory environment in their country, along with skills in business, financial, social, environmental development, and grant management. The proposed climate business solution should be innovative and at a seed or post-seed financing stage with a clear path to commercialization or capital raising. Additionally, applicants must show their project’s potential for climate, economic growth, poverty reduction, gender, and development impact, and adhere to responsible business conduct, including having an ESG plan or developing one.
GRANTS FROM CRAIGSLIST CHARITABLE FUND (CCF)
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €1,000,000
The craigslist Charitable Fund (CCF) supports organizations working to improve planetary health and well-being for all of Earth’s inhabitants, including humans, by ending factory farming and all other forms of animal exploitation.
-
Specific areas of interest include: animal suffering; antibiotic resistance; biodiversity loss; cancer; cardiovascular disease; climate change; coastal dead zones; deforestation; dementia; diabetes; food insecurity; land misuse; ocean degradation; pandemic risk;
soil erosion; social injustices; toxic waste; violence; and, zoonotic diseases.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
They are open to a variety of approaches to ending animal exploitation, particularly ones that promise an efficient, scalable and long-lasting impact. They are open to applications from organizations around the world, regardless of 501(c)3 status.
GRANT ASSISTANCE FOR GRASSROOTS AND HUMAN SECURITY PROJECTS (GGP) – RWANDA
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: 10m YEN
In 1989, the Government of Japan introduced Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP/kusanone) in order to respond to the diverse development needs in developing countries. The aim of GGP is to provide financial assistance to non- profit development organizations for implementation of projects at community level. In Rwanda, 2 projects are selected per year.
-
The following areas are considered as deserving priority:
Education
Water and Sanitation
Health
Agriculture Development
Poverty Reduction
Actions must be implemented in Rwanda.
-
Support is provided to Community-Based Organizations; Local or International Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs); Local authority (Ex. City Council, District); Educational Institutions (Ex. School Management Committee, schools); Medical or Health Institutions (Ex. Hospital Management Committee); Research Institutions.
EMERGENCY GRANTS FROM FREE RIVERS FUND
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The Free Rivers Fund (FRF) supports initiatives and actions in defence of free flowing rivers. Partnering with the paddle sports industry they provide grants for activist and conservation groups that commit to the fight to protect rivers from dams and development.
-
Free Rivers Fund aims to support those initiatives that most urgently need funding. No matter if you have been an organization for several years already or if you are just starting out with a bunch of ideas but no results to show, they are looking forward to receiving your application: If you are fighting for free flowing rivers: please apply!
They are now able to set up a fund for urgent action projects. They offer their new “Emergency Grant”. Everyone can apply for it with just an e-mail – all year round. The purpose is to help initiatives that have just formed in order to prevent a dam. You can apply, if (1) your project aims at direct action against a proposed dam; (2) your project is new; (3) your project is run by a single person, a group or a newly formed organisation.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
Your project must be run by a single person, a group or a newly formed organisation.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GRANT
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €400,000 per project
The Inter-American Foundation (IAF) invites proposals for its grant program. The IAF funds the self-help efforts of grassroots groups in Latin America and the Caribbean to improve living conditions of the disadvantaged and the excluded, enhance their capacity for decision-making and self-governance, and develop partnerships with the public sector, business and civil society. The IAF does not identify problems or suggest projects; instead it responds to initiatives presented. Projects are selected for funding on their merits rather than by sector.
-
The IAF looks for the following in a project it funds: (1) innovative solutions to development problems; (2) diverse array of community voices in project development and execution; (3) substantial beneficiary engagement in: the identification of the problem addressed, the approach chosen to solve it, the design of the project, and management and evaluation of activities; (4) partnerships with local government, the business community and other civil society organizations; and (5) evidence of beneficiaries’ enhanced capacity for self-governance.
The IAF only supports projects in independent countries of Latin America and the Caribbean (excl. Cuba, Venezuela).
-
Non-profit organisations (civil society groups) are eligible to apply. They only support projects submitted by community-led groups that are based in independent countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.
SPECIAL FOCUS CALL FROM RECONSTRUCTION WOMEN’S FUND
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
Reconstruction Women’s Fund is the first local women’s Foundation in Serbia, established in 2004. The mission of the Fund is to support and maintain the feminist political platform against the war, against nationalism, racism and militarism, and against the violence and any form of discrimination against women.
-
The Fund aims to (1) support autonomy of women’s groups, whose programs affect the public and lead to strategic changes, (2) to strengthen their networking, cooperation, solidarity and visibility, and (3) to stimulate communication and exchange of women’s activist, academic, artistic and pacifist experience and knowledge.
Special Focus program has been dedicated to pick the point of feminist activism. Since its very beginning the program was oriented to learning and sharing knowledge on critical issues, communication and massive campaigns including strong support to Roma women’s activism. The program has been increasingly developing as one of RWF’s grantmaking programs, getting profile of vivid laboratory for engaged initiatives in progress. They shall highlight our rooted concerns: militarism, nationalism, racism. The aim is understanding, sharing, identifying and supporting activities confronting the origins of the current politics.
They fund projects in Serbia.
-
Applications can be submitted by formal and informal (unregistered) groups in Serbia.
GRANTS FROM DORY FOUNDATION
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €250,000
The Dory Foundation provides grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 to support promising early- to mid-stage non-profit initiatives. They don’t have a specific thematic focus, but their vision anticipates a future where AI significantly reshapes traditional work.
-
Funding criteria includes:
· Impact and Cost-Effectiveness: The program shows strong potential to create meaningful impact relative to its budget.
· Team Strength: The founders and team have the right skills, knowledge, and mindset to make the program a success.
· Sustainability: There is a clear vision for scaling and sustaining the program over time.
· Focus on Results: The program uses relevant metrics and demonstrates a strong commitment to measuring its impact.
Actions can take place anywhere.
-
They generally fund 501(c)(3) organizations or their international equivalents. However, individuals intending to set up a charity are welcome to apply, and for exceptional applications, they may provide support for setting up a legal entity or working with a fiscal sponsor.
GRANT ASSISTANCE FOR GRASSROOTS AND HUMAN SECURITY PROJECTS (GGP) – PALESTINE
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
As part of its Official Development Assistance (ODA), the Government of Japan has offered financial aid particularly for development projects initiated by local communities in order to meet a diversity of basic human needs at the grassroots level. Known as the “Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP)”, this aid scheme provides funds for organizations such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local authorities on a project basis
-
The “Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP)” first aims to better ensure “human security” through implementing projects to empower people and communities and address basic human needs in such fields as health, basic education, water supply, poverty alleviation, and any other fields related to basic human needs. The GGP also aims to foster peace-building from the bottom by assisting local organizations, including local councils, in establishing social and economic infrastructure at the community level. Such bottom-up approach is complementary to the efforts exerted by the central government towards establishing a viable Palestinian state.
Actions must take place in Palestine.
-
Eligible are: Officially recognized as a non-profit organization (non-governmental organization, village/local/municipal council, educational institution, medical institution, cooperatives, etc.)
BESSY FERRERA FUND
Deadline: ONGOING
Budget: €100,000
LGBTIQ+ activists are all too often the targets of hateful political campaigns and face discrimination and violence. The threats they face are not only physical; digital hacks and legal prosecutions also endanger their safety. To help LGBTIQ+ activists out of life-threatening situations worldwide, Hivos set up the Bessy Ferrera Fund. Since 2022, the fund has helped up to 100 people and organizations around the world.
-
Supported by Dutch individual donors, the fund is meant for LGBTIQ+ activists and organizations in restrictive environments facing severe threats for their activism. In times of crisis, these activists urgently need resources to ensure their safety. Whether covering medical bills, purchasing a plane ticket to relocate, securing websites, or replacing equipment after office break-ins, quick action is essential. The Bessy Ferrera Fund provides them immediate support. By working through trusted referrals (including Hivos colleagues and other trusted third parties), they can quickly vet and process their applications.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
The applicant must be an LGBTIQ+ activist, organization, or community working with Hivos or Hivos’ partners; is facing immediate threats due to their advocacy and work. The emergency must have occurred within the last three to four months. The requested funds must directly relate to addressing the emergency (e.g., medical costs, security, relocation). Two positive references are needed, or one positive reference from Hivos if the applicant works directly with Hivos.
Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The Civic Emergency Fund provides fast, flexible support to civil society actors facing urgent or escalating pressure that hinders their work in the public interest. It responds to situations that fall outside standard grant mechanisms, providing timely and proportionate support to reduce immediate risk and help organizations and activists continue operating safely in restrictive civic environments.
-
The Civic Emergency Fund supports urgent and proportionate actions that help civil society actors mitigate immediate harm, manage acute pressure, and safeguard their ability to continue operating. Support is tailored to the situation and focused on addressing concrete risks related to legal pressure, safety and security, psychological well-being, and the ability to continue operating.
The Fund operates in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
-
The Fund is open to civil society actors facing direct pressure or restrictive actions related to their work in the public interest. This includes watchdog organizations, human rights and feminist groups, minority-led initiatives, independent non-profit media, environmental organizations, and groups representing marginalized communities, etc. Informal groups, movements, and individual activists, including journalists, may also be supported through a fiscal agent (registered organizations) or by direct payment of costs. The Fund prioritizes safety-focused and confidential forms of assistance.
P4G CALL FOR PARTNERSHIPS APPLICATION
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €350,000 per project
P4G is now accepting applications for partnerships working on climate mitigation or adaptation solutions in the areas of food, energy and water. Partnerships must comprise at least one early-stage business and one nonprofit organization implementing in one of P4G’s ODA-eligible partner countries: Colombia, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kenya, South Africa and Vietnam.
-
Applicants must provide services or products that contribute to poverty alleviation, gender equity and economic growth in one of the following sub-sectors: climate-smart agriculture, food loss and waste, water resilience, zero emission mobility and renewable energy.
P4G will provide grant funding and technical assistance to help the early-stage business in the partnership become investment ready. To be considered for the next funding round, partnerships should submit their proposal by March 7, 2025. All applications must be submitted in English.
The program is open to partnerships operating in P4G’s ODA-eligible partner countries, which include Colombia, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
-
The eligibility criteria require partnerships to comprise at least one early-stage climate business and one NGO administrative partner. Applicants must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the sectoral, policy, and regulatory environment in their country, along with skills in business, financial, social, environmental development, and grant management. The proposed climate business solution should be innovative and at a seed or post-seed financing stage with a clear path to commercialization or capital raising. Additionally, applicants must show their project’s potential for climate, economic growth, poverty reduction, gender, and development impact, and adhere to responsible business conduct, including having an ESG plan or developing one.
DEVELOPPP.DE CLASSIC
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €2,000,000
Through the develoPPP.de programme, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) provides companies investing in developing and emerging countries with financial and, if required, also professional support.
-
Submitted projects have to meet the development-policy criteria of the German government, like for example promoting sustainable economic development, strengthening human rights, social and environmental standards, education, food security.
In concrete terms, this can mean:
· Improving environmental and social standards in supply chains
· Creating decent jobs and improved working conditions
· Supporting women and marginalised groups, in particular, with careers and entrepreneurship
· Implementing measures that contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation
· Taking measures to protect the natural environment, for example through sustainable cultivation methods, saving water in production processes, and avoiding and recycling waste
· Creating access to health care services
Selected countries as listed in the OECD-DAC list are eligible (Africa, Asia, America, Europe).
-
Applications are open to German companies and companies registered in the EU, as well as companies in developing and emerging countries (as listed on the OECD-DAC list) in which EU-registered companies or European nationals own at least a 25% share. Any company that applies must meet the following minimum requirements: annual turnover of at least €800,000, 8 employees and three years of business operations. Although associations, foundations, non-governmental organisations, foreign chambers of commerce or registered associations are not themselves eligible to apply, they are entitled to participate in develoPPP.de projects as project partners of the applicant company.
DIGITAL RESILIENCY GRANTS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The CIVICUS Crisis Response Fund (CRF) and the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI) are offering rapid-response resiliency grants, especially for local civil society actors facing imminent civic space restrictions, struggles, threats and barriers that prevent them from continuing their work towards more inclusive democracy in the digital age.
-
The goal of the grants provided by the CIVICUS Crisis Response Fund and the Digital Democracy Initiative is to help civil society become more resilient against civic space challenges faced when promoting more inclusive democracy in the digital age. Therefore, the grants support resiliency responses or activities that proactively avoid and mitigate imminent civic space restrictions, struggles, threats and barriers and/or “help civil society continue to do work” towards more inclusive democracy. These responses could focus on helping mitigate digital threats, threats to digital civic rights, threats to civic engagement and inclusive democracy in the digital space, and broader civic space threats (including offline threats) that could be countered or mitigated by using digital technology and building digital resilience.
Actions can take place worldwide.
-
Applicants must be a local civil society organisation, group or social movement (either formal or informal) working to expand civic and democratic freedoms and promote inclusive democracy in the digital age. The grants are not awarded to individuals.
ADVOCACY SUPPORT (DIRECT LOGISTICAL ASSISTANCE)
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
Advocacy Support is for women human rights defenders (WHRDs), from or working in crisis / conflict affected countries, who are seeking logistical support to participate, either individually or as a delegation, in a meeting, event or decision-making process, which contributes to their advocacy work in promoting human rights. This can be at the local, regional, or international level.
-
To maximize impact, the mechanism will prioritize applications to attend fora where women have been traditionally marginalized, including spaces related to, among others, disarmament, counterterrorism, human rights, drugs and crime, harm reduction networks, digitalization, climate change, land rights, and international financial institutions.
Actions can take place in various countries from the OECD DAC list.
-
The applicant must carry out – individually or in association/coalition with others, formally or informally – acts to promote or protect human rights, including women’s rights, in a peaceful manner at the local, national, regional, or international level.
NESTLÉ FOUNDATION TRAINING GRANTS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The Nestlé Foundation supports research in human nutrition with public health relevance in low-income and lower middle-income countries. The Training Grant (TG) Program supports a small research project such as a MSc or PhD thesis project or another training endeavor.
-
At present the Foundation’s work is primarily concerned with human nutrition research issues dealing with: (1) maternal and child nutrition, including breastfeeding and complementary feeding; (2) macro- and micronutrient deficiencies and imbalances; (3) interactions between infection and nutrition, and (4) nutrition education and health promotion.
Studies in other areas of human nutrition research might also be considered, as long as they are dealing with problems of malnutrition in eligible countries. Other areas of research may be eventually considered for support if the applicant can offer specific and convincing evidence and justification for the choice of their research topic.
The Foundation engages in activities that are in low-income and lower middle-income countries as according to the World Bank.
-
Individual researchers/organisations can apply.
NESTLÉ FOUNDATION RESEARCH GRANTS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €300,000 per project
The Nestlé Foundation supports research in human nutrition with public health relevance in low-income and lower middle-income countries. The Small Research Grant (SRG) provides support of a small research study. The Large Research Grant (LRG) is a full grant application of a complete research proposal according to the guidelines.
-
At present the Foundation’s work is primarily concerned with human nutrition research issues dealing with: (1) maternal and child nutrition, including breastfeeding and complementary feeding; (2) macro- and micronutrient deficiencies and imbalances; (3) interactions between infection and nutrition, and (4) nutrition education and health promotion.
Studies in other areas of human nutrition research might also be considered, as long as they are dealing with problems of malnutrition in eligible countries. Other areas of research may be eventually considered for support if the applicant can offer specific and convincing evidence and justification for the choice of their research topic.
The Foundation engages in activities that are in low-income and lower middle-income countries as according to the World Bank.
-
Individual researchers/organisations can apply.
NESTLÉ FOUNDATION PILOT GRANTS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €100,000
The Nestlé Foundation supports research in human nutrition with public health relevance in low-income and lower middle-income countries. The Pilot Grant (PG) Program provides support for pilot research that has a high potential to lead to a subsequent full research project grant.
-
At present the Foundation’s work is primarily concerned with human nutrition research issues dealing with: (1) maternal and child nutrition, including breastfeeding and complementary feeding; (2) macro- and micronutrient deficiencies and imbalances; (3) interactions between infection and nutrition, and (4) nutrition education and health promotion.
Studies in other areas of human nutrition research might also be considered, as long as they are dealing with problems of malnutrition in eligible countries. Other areas of research may be eventually considered for support if the applicant can offer specific and convincing evidence and justification for the choice of their research topic.
The Foundation engages in activities that are in low-income and lower middle-income countries as according to the World Bank.
-
Individual researchers/organisations are eligible.
QUICK-RESPONSE SMALL PROJECTS/ACTIONS
Deadline: ongoing
Budget: €300,000
EEA Civil Society Fund has launched an open call for rapid actions in the areas of protection of democracy, the rule of law and human rights, media literacy, gender equality, and environmental protection. The main purpose is to support organisations in urgent advocacy, legal, communication and other actions designed as an immediate response to various challenges (e.g. pressure on different operations; disinformation; hate speech; violations of rights of specific groups; legislative changes harmful to democracy). It also aims to enhance the role of NGOs in shaping local or national level policies (e.g. responding to regulations in the making; applying pressure for a solution to start taking shape).
-
Applicants must take into account that:
· in the field of environmental protection and climate change, only actions related to public participation, advocacy, strategic litigation, social innovation, and active citizenship will be supported;
· activities related to welfare provision and basic social services will only be supported in the context of broader public awareness, advocacy, empowerment, and initiative-building actions;
· the involvement of young people (in public mobilisation and campaign implementation) is particularly encouraged.
Actions must take place in Slovenia.
-
Eligible applicants are non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in compliance with the conditions set in the Article 2 of the Non-governmental Organisations Act (Official Gazette of Republic of Slovenia no. 21 /18) and if they meet requirements set in the Programme Implementation Agreement (PIA).