Advancing basic knowledge and developing tools for sustainable management of key migratory fish species

Overview

Funding for research projects advancing basic knowledge and developing tools for sustainable management of key migratory fish species, targeting researchers, authorities, and stakeholders involved in marine and diadromous fish conservation and fisheries management.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., universities, research institutions, public authorities, NGOs, and private companies) from eligible countries. Involvement of social sciences and humanities disciplines is required.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: 7,000,000 EUR
• Funding rate: Not specified
• Co-funding: Not specified

What Is Funded

• Development of methods and tools for assessing conservation and management measures, enabling adaptive management.
• Research on anthropogenic impacts (e.g., fisheries, infrastructure, pollution) and climate change effects on migratory fish species.
• Strengthening data collection systems and monitoring coordination across regions and countries.
• Assessment of ecosystem services and societal benefits provided by migratory fish.
• Stakeholder and end-user engagement from design through implementation.
• Citizen science integration in research activities.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Projects must achieve Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4-5 by the end of the project.
• Activities may start at any TRL.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-01-13
• Deadline: 2026-04-13

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage application process via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Emphasis on endangered species and local populations of migratory marine and diadromous fish.
• Projects must align with EU policies, including the Common Fisheries Policy, Marine Strategy Framework Directive, and Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.