Knowledge for Action in Prevention and Preparedness (KAPP)

Overview

Funding for projects that enhance disaster risk awareness, early warning systems, and institutional preparedness within the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). Targets public authorities, civil society, research institutions, and private sector entities working on prevention, preparedness, and cross-border cooperation in disaster risk management.

Who Can Apply

Public authorities (national, regional, local), civil protection and disaster risk management (DRM) agencies, research institutions, non-governmental organizations, private sector entities, and consortia from eligible countries. Cross-border or multi-country cooperation is encouraged.

Funding Details

• Total budget: Not specified.
• Funding rate: Up to 90% of eligible costs for public bodies; up to 75% for other applicants.
• Co-funding: Required for non-public entities (minimum 25% of total eligible costs).

What Is Funded

Projects must align with one or more of the following priorities: 1. Increasing risk awareness and preparedness of the population: Activities to enhance public understanding of disaster risks, improve access to risk information, and combat disinformation in DRM. Includes tools, trainings, and guidelines for citizens, vulnerable groups, and persons with disabilities. 2. Enhancing from early warning to early action: Strengthening multi-hazard early warning systems, improving collaboration between forecasting institutions and public authorities, and integrating new technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning) for rapid response. Focus on wildfire behaviour analysis and operational needs. 3. Ensuring a robust civil protection system: Strengthening institutional capacity through knowledge sharing, skill development, and embedding "preparedness-by-design" in policies. Includes integrating lessons from past emergencies, fostering cross-sectoral cooperation, and applying AI-based tools.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) between 4 and 6, indicating validation in a laboratory or relevant environment and prototype demonstration.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-02-17
• Deadline: 2026-05-18T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Applicants must complete the standard UCPM Prevention and Preparedness application form, including a detailed budget table and, if applicable, a letter of support.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting on project progress, financial expenditures, and outcomes as outlined in the Model Grant Agreement (MGA).
• Dissemination of results and knowledge sharing with UCPM stakeholders.
• Compliance with EU financial and operational regulations, including audits if required.

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

• Projects must demonstrate cross-border relevance or cooperation, even if not explicitly required.
• Proposals under Priority 2 must build on existing efforts or address identified gaps in early warning systems.
• Activities must align with the Union disaster resilience goals and the Preparedness Union Strategy.
• Preference may be given to projects integrating innovative technologies (e.g., AI) or addressing climate change impacts.