The LIFE Calls for proposals 2026 have been launched. They’re your opportunity to help drive Europe’s green transition by turning your ideas into real investment solutions.
Launching amid a renewed energy crisis and increased global geopolitical instability, the LIFE 2026 Calls for proposals, with a budget of €601.5 million, support EU measures to increase competitiveness, close the innovation gap and decarbonise the economy. In addition, the LIFE 2026 will help reduce strategic dependencies — especially on fossil fuels — and enhance the overall resilience of energy systems.
How to apply?
Visit the LIFE Calls for proposals 2026 page to find everything you need to apply. And do not forget to register for the upcoming online #EULIFE26 info days taking place 28-30 April 2026, when the LIFE team will guide you through the process and share tips for completing a successful application.
You can also take inspiration from thousands of successful past and present initiatives across Europe listed in the LIFE project database, take a look at what LIFE is up to in your country or get expert help from your LIFE National Contact Point (NCP).
What types of projects can be funded?
Standard Action Projects (SAPs)
- Nature and Biodiversity – €166 million
- Nature Governance – €7.5 million
- Circular Economy and Zero Pollution – €79 million
- Environmental Governance – €6.5 million
- Climate Change Adaptation – €28 million
- Climate Change Mitigation – €28 million
- Climate Governance – €4 million
Other Projects (OPs) and Clean Energy Transition Coordination and Support Actions (CSAs)
- Clean Energy Transition – €85.5 million
- Specific Operating Grant Agreements (SGA OGs) for NGOs – €15 million (coming soon)
Projects on Legislative and Policy Priorities (PLPs) – €18 million
Strategic Nature Projects (SNaPs) and Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs)
- Strategic Nature Projects – €75 million
- Strategic Integrated Environment Projects – €58 million
- Strategic Integrated Climate Projects – €30 million
Technical assistance
- Technical assistance for preparation of SIPs and SNaPs – €1 million
What projects are sought?
Innovative and best practice projects which demonstrate genuine potential to move from piloting and testing to practical, cost-effective application at scale. Specifically, projects should seek to:
- Protect, conserve and restore Europe’s wildlife, biodiversity and natural spaces.
- Encourage individuals and businesses to rethink, refuse, reduce, reuse and recycle.
- Promote a sustainable, prosperous and competitive economy and quality of life.
- Cut harmful emissions, boost our climate resilience and help us deal with extreme weather.
- Accelerate Europe’s transition to clean, renewable, self-sufficient energy supplies.
- Increase energy efficiency, flexibility and overall EU energy system resilience.
- Accelerate energy investments, and promote citizen engagement and support in the energy transition.
Who can apply?
Any legal entity based in the European Union or in countries associated with the LIFE Programme can apply for a project grant. LIFE project applications can be submitted by a single organisation or by several entities working in collaboration with other partners, but not by individuals; please check carefully the description of the funding topic you wish to apply to.
The deadline for submission for SAPs is 22 September 2026 – deadlines for other projects vary: please check the Portal for details.
More information: LIFE Programme #EULIFE26 info days EU Funding & Tenders Portal
Source: European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA)