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

March 2026 (anticipated)

Typical Horizon Europe RIA awards; multi-million EUR/project; 2–4 years duration

Supports interdisciplinary research and innovation to advance democracy, governance, and civic participation in Europe.

--- ## Description This opportunity, under the Horizon Europe programme, aims to fund research and innovation actions that address the challenges and opportunities of preparing the EU for future enlargement, with a focus on strengthening democratic governance, civic participation, and building resilient, inclusive societies. Projects are expected to deliver evidence-based insights and policy recommendations that support the development of democratic values and institutions across Europe. Interdisciplinary approaches and the engagement of diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society, and academia, are strongly encouraged. --- ## Due Dates - Anticipated deadline: March 2026 - All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates. --- ## Funding Amount - Awards are typically multi-million EUR per project, in line with Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Actions (RIA). - Project durations generally range from 2 to 4 years. --- ## Eligibility - Open to consortia including universities, research organizations, SMEs, NGOs, and public authorities from EU Member States and associated countries. - Proposals must involve at least three independent entities from three different eligible countries. - See the [official call page](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL2-2025-01-DEMOCRACY-03?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=7&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) for detailed eligibility requirements. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted electronically via the [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL2-2025-01-DEMOCRACY-03?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=7&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate). - The process includes registration, proposal preparation (following Horizon Europe templates), and online submission before the deadline. - Detailed guidance and templates are provided on the portal. --- ## Additional Information - Proposals should demonstrate clear policy relevance and impact, with strong stakeholder engagement. - Interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration is encouraged. - Projects should address both challenges and opportunities related to EU enlargement and democratic development. --- ## External Links - [EU Funding & Tenders Portal – Official Call Page](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL2-2025-01-DEMOCRACY-03?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=7&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [European Commission – Funder Home](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en) - [Horizon Europe Programme Overview](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/programmes/horizon) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Type | Details | |--------------|---------| | General Enquiries | [Contact the European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | Phone | +32 2 299 11 11 | | Funding & Tenders Portal Support | [Helpdesk & Support](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/helpdesks) |

Preparing the EU for future enlargement: challenges and opportunities

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