Strengthening the capacity of citizen science in biodiversity observation

The main goal of this opportunity is to strengthen citizen science in biodiversity observation. It aims to increase public involvement in collecting biodiversity data, promote and coordinate citizen science projects, and align their outcomes for greater impact. Focus areas include creating tools and protocols for data collection, supporting collaboration with relevant organizations, and addressing biodiversity in land, freshwater, and marine environments. Projects should also contribute to nature restoration, climate change mitigation, and adaptation goals. The geographic scope covers the European Union and Associated Countries, with some possibilities for international cooperation.

• Projects must follow the specified proposal format and page limits.
• They must include participants from eligible countries as outlined in the Horizon Europe guidelines.
• Applicants must demonstrate adequate financial and operational capacity.
• Projects should address the evaluation and award criteria set out for this initiative.
• Submissions must use the online application system.

Example Projects:

• A collaborative project developing a mobile app for citizens to record and share observations of local plants and animals.
• An initiative that brings together schools and local organizations to monitor freshwater habitats and report biodiversity data.
• A partnership between marine research institutes and coastal communities to track and report on changes in marine species diversity.

• Development of digital tools and platforms for data collection
• Creation of training materials and resources for citizen scientists
• Organizing workshops and community engagement events
• Travel and accommodation for project-related activities
• Purchase of scientific equipment and field materials
• Personnel costs for project management and coordination
• Data analysis and reporting expenses
• Communication and dissemination activities
• Collaboration and partnership-building activities
• Administrative costs directly related to the project

All expenses are covered as a lump sum. Specific restrictions or limits may apply as defined in the Horizon Europe Programme guidelines.

• Budget for this Call: 4,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1

• Type of action: Research and Innovation Action (RIA)
• Consortium required:
• At least 3 independent legal entities
• Each established in a different EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country
• Eligible participants:
• Legal entities (public or private) such as universities, research centres, NGOs, SMEs, large companies, public authorities
• Must be established in the EU or countries associated with Horizon Europe
• Coordinator: Must be from an eligible country
• International partners: Allowed (e.g. from non-associated third countries) but not counted toward minimum consortium and generally not funded
• Affiliated entities: Can participate and be funded, but do not count toward the minimum consortium requirement
• Entities with legal or financial restrictions (e.g. bankrupt or excluded): Not eligible
• Proposal language: Must be submitted in English
• Proposal deadline compliance: Must be submitted on time via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal