EU-LIFE – Program for Environment and Climate Action (2021–2027)
The EU-LIFE Program is the European Union's main funding instrument for environmental and climate action from 2021-2027. It serves as a bridge between research and large-scale implementation by supporting innovative projects in nature conservation, circular economy, climate change mitigation, and clean energy transition.
Who is eligible for funding?
The EU-LIFE Program targets a wide range of public and private entities wishing to implement environmental and climate protection projects in the European Union and associated countries. The goal is to support the transition to a more sustainable, climate-neutral, and energy-efficient economy.
What is funded?
The LIFE program supports a variety of projects and activities aimed at environmental and climate protection and the clean energy transition. It is divided into four specific sub-programs and covers projects from the development of innovative technologies to the application of best practices. Funding can also be used for land acquisition under certain conditions.
Type and Scope of Funding
The LIFE program provides financial support primarily in the form of grants. The amount of funding varies depending on the project type and sub-program, with certain areas potentially receiving higher co-financing rates. The total budget for the 2021-2027 period is set at over 5.4 billion Euros.
Conditions and Requirements
To participate in the LIFE program, specific criteria and conditions related to project quality, application rules, and synergies with other EU initiatives must be met. Transparency and adherence to funding rules are of great importance.
Application Procedure
The application procedure for the LIFE program is based on annual calls for proposals published by the European Commission. Project selection is quality-oriented, taking into account geographical coverage and synergies.
Legal Basis
The LIFE program is legitimized by a specific EU regulation for the period from 2021 to 2027. This regulation sets out the objectives, budget, and funding provisions and is supplemented by other relevant EU regulations and directives.
Similar Programs
No similar programs found.
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
up to 95 percent of eligible costs
Allocated Budget:
EUR 5,432,000,000 for the period 2021-2027
Deadline:
always open
Open Until:
31.12.2027
Award Channel:
Framework Programme Call
Region:
European Union (all Member States), European Economic Area, Accession and Candidate Countries, European Neighbourhood Policy countries, countries that are members of the European Environment Agency (where appropriate agreements exist)
Sectors:
Environmental and Climate Protection, Renewable Energy, Water and Waste Management, Information and Communication Technology, Research and Development, Other
Application Type:
Optional Consortium
Funding Stages:
Basic Research, Applied Research, Experimental Development, Feasibility Study, Prototyping, Pilot Testing, Product Development, Process Optimization, Market Introduction, Scaling, Commercialization, Planning, Policy Development, Implementation, Infrastructure, Service Delivery, Capacity Building, Awareness Campaigns, Monitoring, Evaluation, Other
Funding Provider
Program Level:
European Union
Funding Body:
European Union
Managed By:
Commission
Additional Partners:
Zukunft – Umwelt – Gesellschaft (ZUG) gGmbH (Consulting agency in Germany)