Innovative approaches for the spatial design of neighbourhoods

Overview

Funding for projects developing innovative spatial design approaches to create inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient neighbourhoods. Targets architects, designers, spatial planners, and decision-makers integrating user perspectives into public space design.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., research institutions, public bodies, SMEs, NGOs) from eligible EU Member States and Associated Countries. Social sciences and humanities (SSH) expertise must be included.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: €6,300,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (lump-sum model)
• At least 0.8% of the budget must be allocated to engage with the Horizon Europe-funded "New European Bauhaus hub for results and impact."

What Is Funded

• Development of innovative spatial design methods (e.g., research-by-design, security-by-design, life-centric design) for public spaces.
• Integration of user perspectives, climate resilience, water resilience, biodiversity, and civil security.
• Assessment of multisensory perception, accessibility, and social cohesion in public spaces.
• Demonstration of the approach in at least three neighbourhoods (urban, peri-urban, rural) across different eligible countries.
• Plans for replicability, scalability, and uptake in other green transition areas (e.g., water-resilient planning, public service design).

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4–6

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-05-04
• Deadline: 2026-11-30

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must follow the Horizon Europe Work Programme guidelines, including page limits and lump-sum budgeting.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Associated Countries (Norway, Iceland, UK, Switzerland), and select non-EU/non-Associated Countries with specific provisions.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must adopt a participatory and transdisciplinary approach.
• Emphasis on addressing inequalities, social cohesion, and community resilience.
• Proposals must include plans for skills development and gap assessment.