Enhancing plant protein production to bolster the resilience of agricultural systems and EU self-sufficiency in plant protein used as feed
The 'Enhancing Plant Protein Production' program offers Horizon Europe funding to significantly boost domestic plant protein cultivation for animal feed across the EU. This initiative aims to reduce import dependency and strengthen the sustainability and resilience of European agricultural systems. By fostering innovation and collaboration, it directly supports the ambitious goals of the EU Green Deal and Common Agricultural Policy.
Who is Funded
This section outlines the diverse range of entities and geographic areas eligible for funding, focusing on a multi-actor approach to enhance plant protein production across the European Union and beyond, ultimately aiming for increased EU self-sufficiency and agricultural resilience.
What is Funded
This section details the scope of funded activities, focusing on innovation in plant protein production for feed, covering various agricultural sectors, and supporting projects across a wide spectrum of technological readiness levels. It also clarifies that funding is provided as a lump sum.
Type and Scope of Funding
This section outlines the financial specifics of the program, including the type of financial support, the maximum funding available per project, and general financial parameters within the Horizon Europe framework.
Conditions and Requirements
Applicants must adhere to specific conditions for proposal submission, consortium formation, and budget management under this program. A multi-actor approach is mandatory, fostering broad collaboration across the value chain, and projects are funded via a lump sum model.
Application Procedure
The application process involves a single-stage submission through the Funding & Tenders Portal, with evaluation criteria and timelines detailed in the Work Programme General Annexes. Applicants receive comprehensive guidance and support throughout the submission and grant management phases.
Legal Basis
This program operates under a robust legal framework derived from key EU regulations and decisions, including the Horizon Europe Framework Programme. All foundational and governing documents are made publicly available to ensure transparency and guide participants.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
5,500,000 €
Allocated Budget:
11,000,000 €
Deadline:
16.09.2025
Open Until:
31.12.2027
Award Channel:
Framework Programme Call
Region:
European Union and Associated Countries, specific Third Countries (including Africa).
Sectors:
Agriculture and Agribusiness, Food Processing, Research and Development, Service Sector, Environmental and Climate Protection, Other
Beneficiaries:
Farmers, land managers, advisors, feed manufacturers, food and drink industry, retailers, social economy actors, SMEs, policy-makers, local authorities, communities, NGOs, civil society, researchers.
Application Type:
Consortium Required
Funding Stages:
Basic Research, Applied Research, Experimental Development, Prototyping, Pilot Testing, Process Optimization, Market Introduction
Funding Provider
Program Level:
European Union
Funding Body:
European Commission
Additional Partners:
Joint Research Centre (JRC) - potential consortium member; EU Missions ('A Soil Deal for Europe', 'Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030') - synergies; European partnerships (Agroecology, Animal Health and Welfare, Sustainable Blue Economy, Sustainable Food Systems for people, planet and climate, Agriculture of Data) - synergies; Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean areas (PRIMA) - synergies; European Innovation Partnership for Agriculture productivity and sustainability (EIP-AGRI) - synergies; Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), EIT Food - synergies; International cooperation programmes (e.g., DeSIRA) - synergies.
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