Raising citizen awareness on alternative proteins derived from biotechnology

The main goal of this opportunity is to empower citizens to make informed choices about alternative protein sources produced using biotechnology. It focuses on improving education, communication, and access to clear information about the sustainability and health impacts of these new dietary options. The initiative aims to boost scientific knowledge, counter misinformation, and support educational interventions related to biotechnology in food. Projects should address the social, economic, and environmental effects of alternative proteins, while identifying new market opportunities. International cooperation is encouraged, especially between Europe and Africa, to promote a global shift toward sustainable food systems.

• Projects must follow the multi-actor approach, involving citizens, civil society, authorities, public and private institutions, and value chain actors.
• Proposals should improve scientific knowledge and communication about biotechnology in food.
• Projects must use diverse communication media and update educational curricula to reach a wide audience.
• All data produced should be FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Re-usable).
• Proposals must include Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) disciplines for a human-centered approach.
• Projects should connect with European research infrastructures and consider results from related initiatives.

Examples:

• A campaign using social media, workshops, and educational materials to inform the public about the health and sustainability benefits of plant-based proteins produced with biotechnology.
• A school program that updates science curricula to include lessons on alternative proteins, involving teachers, students, and local food producers.
• A collaborative project between European and African research centers to share best practices and raise awareness about new protein sources in both regions.

• Development and production of educational materials (digital, print, or audiovisual)
• Workshops, seminars, and public engagement events
• Communication campaigns across various media channels
• Training activities for teachers, educators, and community leaders
• Research and data collection related to public awareness and acceptance
• Collaboration with international partners, including travel and networking costs
• Updating and adapting school or university curricula
• Development of dissemination platforms or online resources
• Monitoring and evaluation of project outcomes
• Personnel costs directly linked to project activities

Restriction: All expenses must fit within the lump sum funding model as outlined in the Horizon Europe Programme guidelines.

• Budget for this Call: 2.000.000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1

• Must apply the multi-actor approach, actively involving diverse stakeholders.
• Applicants must be based in eligible countries as outlined by Horizon Europe. Some non-EU or non-Associated Countries may also participate if specific provisions exist.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial and operational capacity to carry out the project.
• Eligible costs must be structured as a lump sum, following Horizon Europe guidelines.
• Projects must involve Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) disciplines.
• Proposals must address specific activities such as educational programs, scientific knowledge transfer, and broad communication efforts.
• Projects should consider and connect with ongoing or completed related initiatives.
• All data must be FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Re-usable).
• International cooperation, especially with partners in the United States and Africa, is encouraged.