Community-led actions to restore our ocean, seas and waters

Overview

Grants for community-driven projects that restore and protect marine and freshwater ecosystems, supporting the EU Mission "Restore our Ocean, Seas and Waters by 2030." Targets local authorities, NGOs, SMEs, research organizations, and cultural or educational entities engaged in conservation and sustainable development.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include:

• Regional and local public authorities
• NGOs, foundations, professional associations, and civil society organizations active in nature conservation
• SMEs and large enterprises
• Cultural and educational organizations
• EU research infrastructures, research organizations, and academia

Applications may be submitted by single entities or consortia of up to 6 partners. Lead applicants from Atlantic/Arctic Basin countries (France, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Faroe Islands, UK, Canada) are particularly encouraged.

Funding Details

• Total budget: EUR 1,000,000
• Grant amount: Up to EUR 100,000 per project (lump sum, awarded to the consortium coordinator)
• Maximum grant per organization: EUR 75,000 (applies to both single applicants and consortium partners)
• Expected number of projects: Minimum 10
• Project duration: 6 to 18 months

What Is Funded

Projects must demonstrably contribute to the EU Mission objectives for ocean, seas, and waters restoration. Focus areas include:

• Community-led conservation and restoration activities
• Local development initiatives with environmental benefits
• Nature-based solutions for marine and freshwater ecosystems
• Activities aligned with the Transition Agenda for sustainable blue economies

Technology / Maturity Requirements

No explicit Technology Readiness Level (TRL) requirements stated.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-01-29
• Deadline: 2026-05-28T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage application process
• Submissions via the SmartSimple platform (operated by ESF)
• Applications must be submitted in English

Post-Award Obligations

Not explicitly stated.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) linked to Member States, and Horizon Europe associated countries (as of 2025-09-01)
• Language: English

Notes

• Organizations may receive funding only once under this call.
• BlueActionAA consortium partners, affiliated entities, and employees are ineligible to apply or receive funding.
• Preference for lead applicants from specified Atlantic/Arctic Basin countries, though no formal restriction applies.