[European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en)

October 15, 2025 (opens) | January 15, 2026 (deadline, 17:00 CET)

Up to €75,000 per project (lump sum); total call budget €225,000; 100% funding rate.

Supports replication of nature-based solutions for lake restoration and protection in Europe, emphasizing knowledge exchange and capacity building.

Only three Associated Regions will be selected for funding.

--- ## Description This call, part of the EUROLakes project funded by the European Commission, aims to transfer and replicate innovative nature-based solutions (NBS) for the restoration and protection of natural lake ecosystems. The initiative targets local and regional authorities interested in adapting methodologies proven at demonstration sites in Italy, Germany, and Romania. Selected participants will co-develop replication plans, engage in knowledge exchange and training, and help establish communities of practice. The focus is on improving the ecological and chemical status of lakes, enhancing biodiversity, and strengthening local governance, all while contributing to EU policy objectives such as the EU Green Deal, Water Framework Directive, and the EU Mission "Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030." --- ## Due Dates - Call opens: October 15, 2025 - Application deadline: January 15, 2026 (17:00 Brussels time) --- ## Funding Amount - Total call budget: €225,000 - Up to €75,000 per selected project (lump sum, 100% funding rate) - Three Associated Regions will be funded --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be **local or regional authorities** from EU Member States or countries associated with Horizon Europe. - Projects must focus on the replication and adaptation of nature-based solutions for the restoration and protection of natural lake ecosystems. - Only three proposals will be selected for funding. --- ## Application Process - The application is single-stage. - Interested authorities must submit their proposals via the [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/competitive-calls-cs/12061?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=1&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate). - Further details and the application form are available at [www.eurolakes.eu/fundingopencall](https://www.eurolakes.eu/fundingopencall). - Successful applicants will collaborate with EUROLakes partners on co-developing replication plans, participating in training, and engaging stakeholders. --- ## Additional Information - Activities must contribute to EU environmental and water management policy goals. - Expected outcomes include enhanced biodiversity, improved lake governance, and measurable progress toward the 4 Returns Framework for Landscape Restoration. - The funding is provided as a lump-sum grant intended for small-scale protection and restoration measures. --- ## External Links - [EU Funding & Tenders Portal – EUROLakes Replication Call](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/competitive-calls-cs/12061?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=1&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [European Commission – Funder Home](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en) - [EUROLakes Project Information](https://www.eurolakes.eu/fundingopencall) --- ## Contact Information | Type | Details | |---------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | General Enquiries | [Contact the European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | Phone | +32 2 299 11 11 | | EU Funding Portal | [Helpdesk & Support](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/helpdesks) |

EUROLakes Replication Call

Sign in to see full grant listing