The European Partnership for a Sustainable Blue Economy (Blue Economy Partnership) has opened a new funding opportunity under the Horizon Europe programme. The initiative supports research and innovation actions that contribute to a sustainable, climate-neutral and productive blue economy across Europe.
The partnership brings together EU Member States and associated countries to jointly fund international projects focused on marine and aquatic resources. In doing so, it strengthens cross-border cooperation and aligns national and European research and innovation priorities.
Objectives of the call
The main objective of the call is to support collaborative research and innovation that enable the transition towards a resilient and environmentally responsible blue economy. In particular, the initiative seeks to generate practical solutions, policy-relevant knowledge and scalable innovations.
Key thematic areas
Proposed projects may address, among others, the following thematic priorities:
- sustainable development of marine and coastal areas;
- protection, restoration and resilience of marine ecosystems;
- innovative solutions for the blue economy and marine industries;
- governance of water resources and ocean data;
- policy support and evidence-based decision-making in the field of the blue economy;
- improved coordination of research and innovation efforts at European and national levels.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants include consortia composed of organisations from EU Member States and countries associated with Horizon Europe, including Ukraine. Consequently, proposals must demonstrate clear transnational cooperation and added European value.
Budget and deadline
Total indicative budget: up to 38 million EUR;
Application deadline: 15 April 2026.
How to apply for European Partnership for a Sustainable Blue Economy
Full details of the call, eligibility rules and application procedures are available on the European Commission’s Funding & Tenders Portal: Funding & Tenders Portal
More Horizon Europe calls and funding opportunities related to sustainability, environment and the blue economy are available in the grants section of the GetGrant service.