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

April 2026 (anticipated)

Multi-million euro awards; typical Horizon Europe collaborative R&D project funding and duration

Supports collaborative R&D to advance innovative, real-time energy management for reducing fuel consumption and emissions in waterborne transport.

This is a forecasted call; details and deadlines are subject to confirmation.

--- ## Description This funding opportunity, part of the Horizon Europe programme and managed by the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission, seeks proposals for collaborative research and innovation projects focused on real-time, adaptive, and innovative energy management solutions for waterborne transport. The objective is to optimize fuel consumption and minimize pollutant emissions, contributing to the EU's goals for climate neutrality and sustainable mobility under Horizon Europe Cluster 5 (Climate, Energy and Mobility). The call encourages cross-sectoral partnerships among academia, industry, and other stakeholders to address technological and operational challenges in the maritime and inland waterway sectors. --- ## Due Dates - Anticipated call opening: January 2026 - Anticipated proposal deadline: April 2026 *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Multi-million euro funding per project, consistent with Horizon Europe collaborative R&D actions. - Typical project duration: 3–5 years. - The precise budget and funding rates will be confirmed in the official call documents. --- ## Eligibility - Open to consortia including universities, research organizations, SMEs, large companies, and other relevant stakeholders established in EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries. - Proposals must typically include partners from at least three different eligible countries. - Further eligibility and consortium composition requirements will be detailed in the official call. --- ## Application Process - Prepare and submit proposals via the [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL5-2025-04-D5-12?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=9&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate). - Proposals are evaluated based on excellence, impact, and quality/efficiency of implementation. - Additional guidance, templates, and manuals are available on the portal. - Applicants are encouraged to monitor the portal for the official call launch and updated documentation. --- ## Additional Information - This call is part of the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport (ZEWT) Partnership, aligning with the EU Green Deal and digital transition objectives. - Projects should demonstrate clear pathways to reducing emissions and improving operational efficiency in waterborne transport. - Successful projects may involve demonstration activities, digital solutions, and cross-disciplinary approaches. --- ## External Links - [EU Funding & Tenders Portal – Topic Details](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL5-2025-04-D5-12?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=9&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [European Commission – Horizon Europe](https://commission.europa.eu/research-and-innovation/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe_en) - [How to Participate – Guidance & Manuals](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/manuals) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Type | Details | |---------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [European Commission Contact Page](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | Phone | +32 2 299 11 11 | | Funding Portal Help | [EU Funding & Tenders Portal Helpdesk](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/helpdesks) |

Real-time, adaptative and innovative energy management solutions to optimise fuel consumption and lower emissions pollutants in waterborne transport (ZEWT Partnership)

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