Towards community-driven business models: coastal and freshwaters sustainable tourism supports communities in testing tourism businesses that protect and restore ecosystems while creating livelihoods.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: February 9, 2027 (Opening) | September 21, 2027 (Deadline, 17:00 Brussels time)
Funding Amounts: €1 million–€1.5 million per project; €6 million total topic budget; 4 expected grants
Summary: Supports community-driven tourism business models that create livelihoods while protecting and restoring coastal and freshwater ecosystems.
Key Information: Each proposal must focus on one Mission basin and demonstrate models in at least three areas across different Member States/Associated Countries.
This Horizon Europe Innovation Action, funded by the European Commission under the Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission, supports testing the feasibility and socio-economic viability of community-driven sustainable tourism businesses. Projects should couple entrepreneurship and investment with marine, coastal and freshwater habitat protection and restoration, producing benefits for both ecosystems and local livelihoods.
The topic emphasises engagement of coastal, riparian and lakeside communities, tourists and the private sector. Expected results include economically viable models that can be replicated across sea basins, job creation, skills development, stronger conservation capacity and conservation-minded behaviour. Activities should address vulnerable groups’ needs, gender equality, non-discrimination, poverty and social exclusion. Synergies with the New European Bauhaus Initiative are encouraged.