Open topic on research and innovation for effective management of EU external borders that promotes fundamental rights and EU values

Overview

Funding for research and innovation projects addressing emerging or unforeseen challenges in EU external border management, with a focus on solutions that enhance security while protecting fundamental rights and EU values. Targets consortia developing tools for border surveillance, checks, customs, and maritime/aviation security.

Who Can Apply

Consortia including at least two border, coast guard, or customs authorities from different EU Member States or Associated Countries. Eligible applicants include research institutions, public bodies, private entities, and other organizations from eligible countries (see Horizon Europe Programme Guide for full list).

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €7,833,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (lump-sum contributions apply)
• Total budget: Not specified

What Is Funded

Projects exploring, developing, or testing knowledge and technology solutions in:

• Border surveillance
• Border checks
• Customs and supply chain security
• Civilian maritime and aviation security

Solutions must integrate intersectional perspectives (e.g., gender, age, disabilities, race, migrant status) and demonstrate testing, validation, or scalability potential. Follow-up research, uptake, or application at national/EU levels is encouraged.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Proposals must outline methods for demonstration, testing, or validation of tools/solutions.
• No explicit TRL range specified, but projects should align with research and innovation objectives.
• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data/services is mandatory if satellite-based earth observation or navigation is involved.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2027-05-04
• 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.
• Evaluation follows standard Horizon Europe criteria (Annex D).

Post-Award Obligations

• Granting authority may object to ownership transfers or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.
• Reporting and dissemination requirements align with Horizon Europe lump-sum grant conditions.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States and Associated Countries (see Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes for full list).
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Proposals must avoid duplicating prior research (e.g., from other Framework Programmes).
• Active involvement of border authorities is mandatory.
• Projects must comply with restrictions for the protection of European communication networks.