National Contact Points in the field of security and cybersecurity

The main goal of this opportunity is to strengthen the role of National Contact Points (NCPs) in security and cybersecurity by building stronger connections with national research and innovation communities. The focus is on improving NCP services, harmonizing cooperation across countries, and supporting research and innovation for civil security throughout Europe. Special attention is given to reducing fragmentation between regions, raising awareness of EU funding, and encouraging innovation adoption. The opportunity also aims to ensure that local and regional needs are integrated into the broader EU security research framework, with close collaboration with the Community for European Research and Innovation for Security (CERIS). Geographic coverage includes all EU Member States and Associated Countries.

• Applicants must be officially nominated Horizon Europe National Contact Points (NCPs) for Cluster 3 ("Civil Security for Society") from an EU Member State or Associated Country.
• Projects must address issues relevant to civil security, promote trans-national cooperation among NCPs, and focus on harmonizing NCP services across Europe.
• The consortium should include both experienced and less experienced NCPs.
• The recommended project duration is 3 years.

Example Projects:

• An NCP network from several countries develops a joint training program to share best practices and improve service quality for civil security research applicants.
• A group of NCPs launches an awareness campaign to increase participation in EU security research calls among underrepresented regions.
• A consortium of NCPs collaborates to create a platform that integrates local security needs into European research agendas.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 3,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Budget per grant: 3,000,000€

• Applicants must be officially nominated as Horizon Europe NCPs for Cluster 3 ("Civil Security for Society").
• Applicants must be from an EU Member State or an Associated Country.
• Applicants must have financial and operational capacity to carry out the project.
• Applicants must be part of a consortium that includes both experienced and less experienced NCPs.
• Eligibility is limited to those responsible for Cluster 3 and officially recognized by the European Commission.