Rail – studies

Last updated: 19.7.2025
Grant

The CEF-T-2021-COMPCOEN-RAIL-STUDIES call, under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), targets the development and modernisation of rail transport infrastructure within the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). This EU action grant program aims to foster smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth by co-financing studies crucial for achieving climate neutrality and enhancing territorial, social, and economic cohesion across Europe.

Who is Funded

The Rail – studies funding program supports a wide range of legal entities, primarily public and private bodies, within EU Member States that are eligible for Cohesion Fund financing. The overarching goal is to significantly advance rail transport infrastructure development across the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), contributing to broader European objectives of decarbonisation and sustainable growth.

What is Funded

This section details the specific types of projects and activities eligible for funding, focusing exclusively on studies related to rail transport infrastructure within the TEN-T Comprehensive Network. It also clarifies which costs are covered and the typical developmental stage of supported projects.

Type and Scope of Funding

The Rail – studies program provides financial support primarily through grants, encouraging significant investments in rail infrastructure. While there is no strict maximum grant amount per project, a recommended minimum EU contribution is in place, and the funding rate can be very high, particularly for cross-border initiatives. Projects are expected to have a relatively short duration, emphasizing focused study efforts.

Conditions and Requirements

Applicants and beneficiaries must adhere to a comprehensive set of conditions and requirements throughout the application and project implementation phases. These stipulations cover administrative procedures, financial capacities, collaboration structures, and adherence to specific European regulations.

Application Procedure

The application process for the Rail – studies program is entirely electronic, requiring meticulous preparation and submission through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. A rigorous evaluation process, based on clear award criteria, determines the selection of proposals.

This program operates under a robust legal framework established by key EU regulations, ensuring its legitimacy, scope, and adherence to broader European policies. The foundational documents govern the implementation, administration, and financial management of the funding.

Similar Programs

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Funding Overview

Funding Status

Funding Status:

Closed

Maximum Amount

Maximum Amount:

No maximum grant amount is set, but projects requesting less than 1,000,000 € EU contribution are discouraged. The funding rate is generally a maximum of 85%, potentially increasing to 90% for cross-border links with integrated management.

Allocated Budget

Allocated Budget:

350,000,000 €

Deadline

Deadline:

19.01.2022

Award Channel

Award Channel:

Competitive Tender

Region

Region:

EU Member States eligible for Cohesion Fund financing.

Sectors

Sectors:

Transportation and Logistics

Beneficiaries

Beneficiaries:

Public and private legal entities, including international organizations, engaged in rail transport infrastructure development.

Application Type

Application Type:

Optional Consortium

Funding Stages

Funding Stages:

Feasibility Study, Planning

Funding Provider

Program Level:

European Union

Funding Body:

European Commission

Managed By:

European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA)

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