Driving Urban Transitions: New Call for 2026 on Sustainable Urban Transition within a European Partnership
Formas funds interdisciplinary research on sustainable urban transitions in Europe, focusing on circular economies, energy-positive districts, and the 15-minute city for the 2026 DUT partnership call.
Funder: Formas
Due Dates: November 17, 2026 (Stage 1 / Pre-proposal) | April 15, 2027 (Stage 2 / Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: Typical project size €1–2M; Swedish partners: up to €300,000 (or €400,000 if coordinator); project duration up to 36 months.
Summary: Funds transnational research and innovation projects advancing sustainable urban transformation in Europe, with a focus on circular economies, positive energy districts, and the 15-minute city.
Key Information: Consortium must include at least three partners from three participating countries and at least one urban authority.
Description
This funding opportunity supports international, interdisciplinary research and innovation projects aimed at driving sustainable urban transitions across Europe. The program is part of the Driving Urban Transitions (DUT) European partnership, co-funded by the European Commission under Horizon Europe. Projects should address one or more of three thematic areas (“Transition Pathways”): Circular Urban Economies, Positive Energy Districts, or the 15-Minute City. The 2026 call introduces a cross-cutting innovation topic applicable to all pillars. The initiative encourages collaboration among research institutions, companies, municipalities, civil society, and creative sectors to develop solutions that support climate-neutral, resilient, and inclusive cities.
