Pillar III: Promoting public engagement in R&I and scientific literacy

Overview

Funding for projects that enhance public engagement in research and innovation (R&I) and promote scientific literacy, targeting youth participation in science or scaling up science engagement initiatives at the EU level. Applicants must address one of two predefined focus areas to strengthen trust in science and align R&I with societal needs.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of at least three independent legal entities, each established in a different EU Member State or Associated Country, with at least two entities based in a Member State.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: 6,000,000 EUR
• Funding form: Lump sum
• Project duration: Up to 3 years (longer if justified)

What Is Funded

Focus Areas: 1. Youth, science, and democracy – Innovative approaches to engage young people in participatory science activities addressing social challenges (e.g., climate change, digital inequalities). Activities include co-developing handbooks/guidelines with stakeholders and recommending common EU-wide engagement strategies. 2. Scaling up science engagement at EU level – Online platforms facilitating dialogue between researchers and civil society, including visits to community organizations. Activities must ensure inclusivity, adapt to diverse audiences/languages, and provide lessons learned for future initiatives.

Projects must demonstrate wide geographical coverage, inclusivity, and broad stakeholder participation.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4–6

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-12-07
• Deadline: 2027-03-10

Application Process (High-Level)

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

Geographic Scope & Language

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

Notes

• Proposals must address one of the two focus areas and justify any extended project duration beyond 3 years.
• Gender equality and inclusivity must be integrated into project activities.
• Lump-sum funding applies; detailed budget tables are required.
• Evaluation prioritizes a balanced portfolio across focus areas, not just ranking.