Large-scale in situ biodiversity observations for better understanding of biodiversity state, drivers of its decline and impacts of policies

The main goal of this opportunity is to advance the European Green Deal by improving our understanding of the biodiversity crisis and its impacts. It focuses on collecting and analyzing high-quality data on species and habitats to support biodiversity conservation and restoration. The opportunity aims to fill data gaps, map biodiversity, and assess the effectiveness of current policies and business practices. Emphasis is placed on terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems within the European Union and Associated Countries. The initiative also supports nature-based solutions and ecosystem-based adaptation across diverse ecological regions.

• Projects must follow the required page limits and layout as specified in the application instructions.
• Applicants must be based in eligible countries within the EU or Associated Countries, or in certain non-EU countries with special provisions.
• Applicants must show they have the necessary financial and operational capacity.
• Proposals are evaluated based on clear criteria, scoring, and thresholds set out in the application guidelines.
• Beneficiaries may offer grants to third parties, with a maximum of EUR 60,000 per third party.
• Projects should align with the expected impacts and objectives of the relevant topic area.

Examples:

• A project collecting and mapping in situ data on freshwater fish species across several EU countries.
• An initiative supporting local organizations to monitor and restore coastal marine habitats.
• A collaborative effort to fill data gaps on terrestrial pollinator species in underrepresented regions.

• Expenses related to collecting in situ biodiversity data
• Costs for mapping and analyzing species and habitats
• Support for nature restoration activities
• Funding for activities designed to fill biodiversity data gaps
• Expenses for promoting nature-based solutions and ecosystem-based adaptation
• Costs associated with engaging local organizations or communities
• Administrative costs directly linked to the project
• Equipment and materials necessary for field observations
• Travel and logistics for fieldwork within eligible countries
• Training and capacity-building related to project goals

Note: The maximum grant per third party is EUR 60,000. Up to 30% of EU funding may be used for financial support to third parties for specific activities.

• Budget for this Call: 22.000.000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 2
• Budget per grant: 11.000.000€

• Applicants must be based in eligible EU Member States, Associated Countries, or certain non-EU countries with special provisions.
• Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial and operational capacity.
• Proposals must comply with application format and submission requirements.
• Projects must align with the thematic focus on biodiversity data, restoration, and ecosystem services.
• Consortia may be required, and eligibility may depend on forming networks or partnerships.
• Applicants must follow the selection process for third-party support as defined by the consortium.