Developing managed aquifer recharge techniques (MAR) in a rural context

Overview

Funding for projects developing managed aquifer recharge (MAR) techniques to improve water resilience in rural agricultural contexts, targeting farmers, land managers, and policymakers. Focuses on climate adaptation, groundwater sustainability, and business models for implementation.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., research institutions, universities, SMEs, public bodies, farmers, land managers) from eligible countries. Proposals must apply a multi-actor approach, involving relevant stakeholders such as farmers, water governance bodies, and local authorities.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: €10,000,000. Funding is provided as a lump sum.

What Is Funded

• Development and customization of MAR techniques at farm, basin, and catchment levels.
• Methodologies for assessing suitable locations for MAR implementation, validated through case studies.
• User-friendly monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems for groundwater quality and quantity.
• Evaluation of MAR’s impact on groundwater ecosystems, associated water ecosystems, and dependent terrestrial ecosystems.
• Cost-benefit analysis of MAR techniques and development of business models (e.g., payment schemes, nature/water credits).
• Demonstration of business models in at least two case studies across different pedoclimatic zones.
• Framework for governance models tailored to local socio-economic and regulatory conditions.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must achieve Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4-5 by the end of the project. Proposals should build on existing research and collaborate with relevant Horizon Europe projects.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-04-16
• Deadline: 2026-09-16

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage application process. Proposals must be submitted via the 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

• Proposals must align with EU policies on agriculture, water resilience, and climate adaptation.
• Collaboration with ongoing Horizon Europe projects (e.g., Mission Soil, Mission Ocean & Waters) is encouraged.
• Proposals should follow the CIS Working Group on Groundwater’s guidance on MAR techniques.
• Multi-actor approach is mandatory, ensuring stakeholder involvement throughout the project.