Connecting research infrastructures and a wider user community across the European Research Area through access to advanced research infrastructure services

Overview

This grant aims to strengthen the European Research Area by improving access to advanced research infrastructure services for a broader user community, including early-stage researchers. It targets research infrastructures seeking to enhance transnational and virtual access, foster collaboration, and integrate data management practices.

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include consortia of research infrastructures, such as ESFRI Landmarks, European Research Infrastructure Consortia (ERICs), and other national or pan-European research infrastructures. At least two ESFRI Landmarks or ERICs must be included as beneficiaries. The Joint Research Centre (JRC) may participate as a beneficiary with zero funding or as an associated partner.

Funding Details

• Maximum funding per grant: €40,000,000
• Funding type: Grant
• Financial support to third parties: Up to €100,000 per third party for access provision, where applicable.

What Is Funded

• Transnational and/or virtual access to advanced research infrastructure services for curiosity-driven research.
• Networking activities, including short-term exchange programs and outreach to underrepresented regions.
• Training and capacity-building for early-stage researchers.
• Data management, interoperability, and integration with the European Open Science Cloud.
• Financial support to third-party research infrastructures to extend service portfolios.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 7 to 9

Key Dates

• Open date: 2027-03-08
• Deadline: 2027-06-14

Application Process (High-Level)

• Process: Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Page limit: 100 pages for the proposal.

Post-Award Obligations

• Compliance with access provisions outlined in the "Specific features for Research Infrastructures" section of the work programme.
• Reporting on access provision, user selection, and service documentation.
• Adherence to FAIR data principles and data management requirements where applicable.

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

• Proposals must include access provision activities and explicitly identify participating ESFRI Landmarks or ERICs.
• Synergies with other EU grants supporting access provision must be ensured.
• The Joint Research Centre (JRC) may collaborate with successful proposals post-approval.