The EUROLakes project is launching a call for Associated Regions to replicate its cutting-edge, nature-based solutions (NBS) for the restoration of European natural lakes. Local and regional authorities across Europe are invited to apply for funding to implement ecological restoration projects inspired by successful models in Italy, Germany and Romania. Selected regions will co-develop and implement tailored lake restoration plans based on the 4 Returns Framework methodology, receiving support from EUROLakes experts.

📅 Call Timeline

• Call Open: 15 October 2025
• Deadline for submission: 15 January 2026 (17:00 CET)

✅ Eligibility

• The call is open to local and regional authorities (municipalities, conservation agencies, regional governments).
• Applicants must be from:
  • EU Member States, with the exception of countries already represented by the EUROLakes Consortium.
  • Horizon Europe Associated Countries.
• Applicants’ responsibilities must include overseeing, managing or protecting natural lakes and their surrounding catchment areas.
• Applicants must be located in an “Associated Region” facing similar challenges to EUROLakes’ demo sites.
• Applicants must not have received funding under the same Horizon Europe topic (HORIZON-MISS-2023-OCEAN-01-04).
• Applications can be submitted by a single eligible authority or as part of a local partnership (but only local/regional authorities can be the Lead Applicant). Other entities (e.g., NGOs, universities) may join as subcontractors.

📂 Support Scope and Duration

• The project will last 20 – 24 months.
• The project is intended to start between June 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026.
• The project will end on May 31, 2028.
• The project grant will be awarded as a lump sum.

💶 Funding Opportunities

• The lump sum project grant for each region is €75,000.
• The expected number of projects to be funded is 3.

📌 Useful Links

• Application Form
• Application Guide