COST is a networking program aimed at spreading excellence, fostering interdisciplinary research, and empowering young researchers to find solutions to scientific, technological, and societal challenges. The call is open to all fields aimed at advancing scientific or societal knowledge, and multidisciplinary projects are highly encouraged.

📅 Call Timeline

• Call Opening Date: 31 July 2026 (12:00 CEST)
• Application Deadline: 28 October 2026 (12:00 CET)

A total of 80 new COST Actions are planned to be approved under the 2026 call.

✅ Eligibility

• All researchers working in legal entities such as universities, research centers, public institutions, SMEs, large companies, and NGOs are eligible to apply.
• Applications are submitted electronically through a single-stage process directly via the e-COST platform.

📑 Funding Scope and Rules

• Network Structure: The network proposing the project must consist of researchers from at least 7 different COST Full or Cooperating Members.
• Inclusiveness: A minimum of 50% of these 7 countries must be from the Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITC).
• Young Researchers: At least 40% of the network team is expected to consist of young researchers and innovators.
• Research Funding: COST does not directly fund research itself; instead, it funds networking tools such as meetings, Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs), training schools, and dissemination activities.

📌 Important Links

• e-COST Application Platform
• COST Documents and Guidelines Page
• COST National Coordinators (CNC) List