Danube river basin lighthouse – restoration of fresh and transitional water ecosystems

Last updated: 16.7.2025
Grant

The Danube river basin lighthouse initiative, under Horizon Europe, is a key funding program aimed at restoring fresh and transitional water ecosystems. It focuses on large-scale demonstration activities and the sustainable use of these revitalized environments, significantly contributing to the EU's biodiversity and zero-pollution goals. This program uniquely emphasizes nature-based solutions and actively involves local communities and diverse stakeholders in achieving its ambitious restoration targets.

Who is Funded and Program Objectives

This section outlines the eligibility criteria for applicants, the specific geographical areas targeted by the program, and its overarching strategic goals. It details who can apply, where projects must be implemented, and the environmental and socio-economic objectives of the funding.

What is Funded

This section details the types of projects and activities eligible for funding, specifying the thematic areas, supported developmental stages, and rules regarding eligible and excluded costs. The program prioritizes nature-based solutions for ecosystem restoration and sustainable resource management.

Type and Scope of Funding

This section details the financial mechanisms, funding levels, and typical project timeframes supported by the program. It outlines the nature of financial assistance and specific limits for third-party support.

Conditions and Requirements

This section outlines the essential rules and requirements for applicants and beneficiaries, covering application terms, consortium formation, and specific financial stipulations. Adherence to these conditions is vital for successful participation and project implementation.

Application Procedure

This section outlines the process for submitting applications, including the required forms and the evaluation and selection procedures. It also details where applicants can find essential guidelines and support throughout the application journey.

This section identifies the foundational legal and policy documents that authorize and govern the Danube river basin lighthouse program. These documents provide the regulatory framework and strategic direction for its implementation.

Similar Programs

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Funding Overview

Funding Status

Funding Status:

Closed

Maximum Amount

Maximum Amount:

100,000 € (per 'associated region' for financial support to third parties)

Allocated Budget

Allocated Budget:

17,000,000 € (for 2021, specifically for HORIZON-MISS-2021-OCEAN-02-02)

Deadline

Deadline:

12.04.2022

Open Until

Open Until:

Ongoing (program period 2021-2027)

Award Channel

Award Channel:

Framework Programme Call

Region

Region:

Danube river basin (including the Danube river, its delta, and its main tributaries), and 'associated regions' within the Danube river basin and Black Sea.

Sectors

Sectors:

Environmental and Climate Protection, Water and Waste Management, Research and Development, Social Enterprises, Other

Beneficiaries

Beneficiaries:

Ecosystems, Freshwater ecosystems, Danube river basin, Black Sea, local communities, fish and mollusc populations

Application Type

Application Type:

Consortium Required

Funding Stages

Funding Stages:

Applied Research, Experimental Development, Prototyping, Pilot Testing

Funding Provider

Program Level:

European Union

Funding Body:

European Commission (Horizon Europe)

Additional Partners:

European Volunteer Corps, Mission Citizen Assemblies

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