Strengthening the international dimension of ESFRI and/or ERIC research infrastructures

Overview

Supports collaboration between European research infrastructures (ESFRI/ERIC) and international counterparts to strengthen global research infrastructure networks, enhance data sharing, and address global societal challenges. Targets consortia involving at least one ESFRI Landmark or ERIC and a non-associated third-country partner.

Who Can Apply

Consortia must include:

• At least one ESFRI Landmark (hosted by a legal entity in the lead country) or European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC).
• At least one legal entity from a non-associated third country (as beneficiary or associated partner).

Eligible applicants include research infrastructures, universities, public bodies, and other legal entities from EU Member States, Associated Countries, and non-associated third countries (if funding is secured).

Funding Details

• Maximum funding per project: €40,000,000.
• Funding type: Lump sum grant.
• Total budget: Not specified.
• Co-funding: Not explicitly required, but long-term sustainability of joint activities must be demonstrated.

What Is Funded

• Cooperation between European research infrastructures (ESFRI/ERIC) and international counterparts.
• Activities to enhance global interoperability, data sharing, and access for European scientists.
• Development of governance models, joint agreements on data sharing, and co-financing of reciprocal activities.
• Exchange of best practices in standards, reference materials, and data handling.
• Initiatives addressing global societal challenges (e.g., environmental monitoring, health).

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4 to 6.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-03-09.
• Deadline: 2026-06-15.

Application Process (High-Level)

• Process: Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Application form: Specific to this call, available in the Submission System.
• Evaluation: Based on award criteria outlined in Annex D of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting and dissemination requirements as per Horizon Europe lump sum grant agreements.
• Long-term sustainability of collaboration must be demonstrated beyond the project duration.

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

• Proposals must align with the Council Recommendation of 23 May 2024 on enhancing research security.
• Non-associated third-country participants may join only if they secure their own funding.
• Proposals must demonstrate EU benefit, such as new services or knowledge accessible to EU researchers.