Open topic on increasing security of citizens against terrorism, including in public spaces

Overview

Funding for research and innovation projects addressing emerging or unforeseen terrorism-related security challenges affecting European citizens, including in public spaces. Targets consortia developing modern tools, procedures, or training for police authorities and security practitioners.

Who Can Apply

Consortia involving at least three police authorities from three different EU Member States or Associated Countries. Other eligible applicants include research institutions, public bodies, and private entities, provided they meet the call’s security practitioner requirements. Entities directly or indirectly controlled by China are ineligible.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: 7,833,000 EUR. Funding is provided as a lump sum, with eligible costs determined by the Horizon Europe lump sum decision.

What Is Funded

Projects must focus on increasing security against terrorism, including in public spaces, through:

• Development of harmonised tools and procedures for police authorities and security practitioners.
• Demonstration, testing, or validation of solutions.
• Training curricula for counter-terrorism efforts.
• Cooperation between police authorities, security practitioners, and international actors.
• Uptake and upscaling plans for post-project implementation.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must include demonstration, testing, or validation of developed tools or solutions. No explicit Technology Readiness Level (TRL) range is specified, but proposals should avoid duplicating prior research and ensure practical applicability.

Key Dates

Deadline: 2027-11-03T23:00:00Z.

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must adhere to page limits and templates outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Mid-term deliverable assessing project outcomes, performed by involved security practitioners.
• Engagement with the Europol Innovation Lab for projects within Europol’s mandate.
• Cooperation with CEPOL for training-related aspects, if applicable.
• Compliance with reporting and dissemination requirements outlined in the grant agreement.

Geographic Scope & Language

Open to applicants from EU Member States and Associated Countries. Applications must be submitted in English.

Notes

• Proposals must comply with EU legislation on data protection and fundamental rights.
• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data is mandatory for projects involving satellite-based services.
• Coordination among funded projects is required to avoid duplication and maximize impact.
• Gender dimension integration is optional and must be justified if included.