Science comes to town 2027

The main goal is to connect citizens and scientists through a year-long programme of activities in cities across Member States and Associated Countries. The initiative focuses on increasing public trust in science and innovation, showing how science benefits well-being, and aligning research with societal needs and values. It aims to enhance engagement with research and innovation, promote diverse career opportunities, and encourage inclusive participation in science policy. Experimentation with new formats is encouraged to reach people of different ages and backgrounds. Activities will take place in a small group of cities, primarily within Member States, but some non-EU countries may also join if eligible.

• oint design and implementation of a year-long “Science comes to town 2027” programme in selected cities.

• Development of science engagement initiatives targeting diverse social and age groups at local and European levels.

• Organisation of inclusive public debates and participatory events on the future of R&I policy in Europe.

• Implementation of science communication and outreach activities that showcase the societal impact of R&I.

• Coordination of European-wide science competitions and youth-focused events to promote careers in R&I.

Examples:

• A partnership between cities in France, Germany, and Italy, each with support from their mayors and local science organizers, running a coordinated year of science events.
• A group of four cities, including two from Member States and two from Associated Countries, collaborating on workshops and public science fairs, with extra funding from local sponsors.
• Three cities from different Member States organizing a science festival and youth competitions, with clear commitments from city authorities and national science event organizers.

• 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

• Total budget of the grant:  6,000,000€
• Number of grants attributed: 1
• Budget per grant: 6,000,000€

• Applicants must be a consortium of at least three independent legal entities from different Member States or Associated Countries, with at least two from Member States.
• One city must be designated as the host for EUCYS 2027, with a commitment from its National EUCYS Organiser to run the event.
• Each participating city must provide a commitment letter from its highest public authority, such as the mayor.
• The consortium must show it can secure significant resources beyond the EU grant, including sponsorships or in-kind contributions.
• Projects must involve 3–6 cities from at least three different eligible countries, with most cities in Member States.
• Applicants must clearly describe the activities and specify which are funded by the grant and which by other means.
• Eligibility depends on forming a network or partnership among cities and relevant science organizations.