Support to the organisation and dissemination of the Transport Research Arena (TRA) conference

The main goal of this opportunity is to support the organisation and dissemination of the Transport Research Arena (TRA) conference in 2028. It aims to ensure a successful event and two high-quality competitions recognizing excellence in transport research and innovation across all transport modes and cross-cutting topics. The focus is on raising the profile and strategic importance of the transport sector, supporting EU policy goals for climate-neutral and eco-friendly mobility, and building stronger connections between research, industry, and policymakers. The opportunity also seeks to make transport-related studies more appealing and to highlight outstanding achievements in European transport research. The geographic scope covers Europe and Associated Countries, with a particular expectation to involve EU Member States holding the EU Presidency in 2028.

• Projects must focus on organising and promoting the TRA 2028 conference.
• They should include the planning and execution of two competitions for transport research and innovation awards.
• Projects must address all transport modes and relevant cross-cutting issues.
• Proposals are expected to enhance the visibility and strategic relevance of the European transport sector.
• They should foster collaboration between research, industry, and policymakers.
• Engagement with EU Member States holding the EU Presidency in 2028 is required.

Examples:

• Organising a pan-European conference with sessions on climate-neutral mobility and interactive workshops for students.
• Launching a competition to recognize innovative solutions in sustainable urban transport, with finalists presenting at the TRA conference.
• Coordinating with national transport ministries to ensure broad participation and policy alignment at the event.

• Venue rental and logistics for the TRA 2028 conference
• Development and management of award competitions
• Travel and accommodation for speakers and participants
• Promotional and communication materials
• Technical equipment and support for conference sessions
• Online platforms or tools for virtual participation
• Staff costs related to event organisation
• Costs for networking and stakeholder engagement activities
• Administrative expenses associated with project management
• Prizes and recognition items for competition winners

Funding is provided as a lump sum. Further details or restrictions may be outlined in the official grant agreement.

• Budget for this Call: 1.600.000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1

• Applicants must be legal entities established in Europe or Associated Countries.
• Involvement of EU Member States holding the EU Presidency in 2028 is expected.
• Participation from some non-EU/non-Associated Countries is possible if specific funding provisions are made.
• Applicants must submit proposals following the required format and page limits.
• Proposals must address the objectives of organising and disseminating the TRA conference and related competitions.
• Applicants may need to demonstrate experience in managing large-scale events or similar initiatives.
• Eligibility may depend on forming networks or partnerships, especially with relevant stakeholders or government bodies.