Open topic: Innovative solutions for the European Water Resilience Strategy

Overview

Funding for innovative solutions addressing water resilience in Europe, targeting breakthrough technologies and practices that restore water cycles, promote water-smart economies, and ensure clean, affordable water for all. Open to consortia implementing multi-actor approaches and stakeholder engagement.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., research institutions, SMEs, public bodies, NGOs) from eligible countries. Proposals must include diverse stakeholders such as farmers, industries, local authorities, and water governance bodies. The Joint Research Centre (JRC) may participate as a zero-funding beneficiary or associated partner.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €6,000,000 per project
• Funding form: Lump sum
• Funding rate: Not specified (standard Horizon Europe rules apply)
• Total budget: Not specified

What Is Funded

Projects must address one or more of the following actions under the European Water Resilience Strategy:

• Restore the water cycle: Innovative solutions for water retention, river renaturalization, drought/flood resilience, and biodiversity support.
• Water-smart economies: Water efficiency techniques, pricing systems, digital solutions, and circular water reuse/recycling.
• Clean and affordable water: Public engagement, equitable access, and water footprint methodologies.

Proposals must include demonstration, testing, or validation of tools/solutions and plans for post-project uptake and upscaling.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4–6 (validation in lab to prototype in relevant environment)

Key Dates

• Open date: 2027-02-03
• Deadline: 2027-04-07T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

• Two-stage process:

- First stage: Blind evaluation (no disclosure of applicant identities in abstract or Part B). - Second stage: Full proposal submission for shortlisted applicants.

• Submission portal: Funding & Tenders Portal.

Post-Award Obligations

• Collaboration with other projects funded under this topic to maximize outcomes.
• Reporting and dissemination requirements (standard Horizon Europe obligations apply).
• Use of Copernicus/Galileo data if satellite-based solutions are employed.

Geographic Scope & Language

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

Notes

• Proposals must apply the multi-actor approach and avoid duplication of past EU-funded projects.
• Gender/intersectional dimensions must be addressed if relevant to project objectives.
• Complementarity with Copernicus, Water4All Partnership, and EU Missions is required.