Question 1

What EU grants are available for the Security sector?

Accepted Answer

The European Commission offers a wide range of funding opportunities specifically designed for the Security sector. These include grants through Horizon Europe (the EU's flagship research and innovation programme with a budget of €95.5 billion), the European Innovation Council (EIC) which provides funding for breakthrough innovations, and various sector-specific initiatives. Funding types range from Research and Innovation Actions (RIA) with 100% funding rates, to Innovation Actions (IA) with 70% funding for companies, and Coordination and Support Actions (CSA) for networking and coordination activities. Our database helps you find grants that match your organization's specific needs, project stage, and funding requirements.

Question 2

How do I apply for Security grants from the EU?

Accepted Answer

Applying for EU grants in the Security sector involves several key steps. First, use Grantalist to identify suitable open calls that match your project idea and organization type. Next, carefully review the call documentation, including eligibility criteria, evaluation criteria, and the work programme. Most EU grants require you to form a consortium with partners from at least 3 different EU member states or associated countries. Once ready, you'll submit your proposal through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal, which includes a detailed description of your project, work packages, budget breakdown, and impact assessment. The evaluation process typically takes 3-5 months, after which successful applicants enter grant agreement preparation. We recommend starting your application at least 2-3 months before the deadline.

Question 3

What is the typical funding amount for Security EU grants?

Accepted Answer

EU grants for the Security sector offer diverse funding levels depending on the programme and action type. Small-scale grants through programmes like EIC Accelerator can start from €500,000 up to €2.5 million in grant funding, plus up to €15 million in equity investment. Collaborative research projects under Horizon Europe typically range from €3 million to €10 million for standard projects, while some large-scale flagship initiatives can exceed €20 million. SMEs and startups often benefit from higher funding rates (up to 70% for Innovation Actions compared to large companies) and access to specialized instruments. The exact amount depends on the specific call topic, project scope, consortium size, and type of activities proposed.

Question 4

Who is eligible for Security EU grants?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility for Security EU grants extends to a wide range of organizations. Legal entities from EU member states and associated countries (including the UK for some programmes, Norway, Switzerland, and others) are typically eligible. This includes universities and research institutions, large enterprises and multinational corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with fewer than 250 employees, startups and scale-ups, public bodies and NGOs, and international organizations. Some calls specifically target certain organization types, such as SME-only calls or academic-focused research grants. Third-country participation is possible in many programmes, though often without EU funding.

EU Grants for Security

European CCAM knowledge hub and tools for safe and scalable deployment (CCAM Partnership)

Inclusive and climate resilient multimodal passenger hubs enhancing modal shift towards sustainable transport and shared mobility

Holistic solutions for CCAM integration in critical scenarios (CCAM Partnership)

Innovative microgrids for improved energy system integration and efficiency in urban contexts

Open grounds for future pre-commercial procurement of innovative security technologies

Open topic on increasing security of citizens against terrorism, including in public spaces

Trusted, secure, quality future digital travel credentials

Accelerating uptake through open proposals for advanced SME innovation

Societal resilience, engagement of the younger generations and digital innovation for disaster resilience

Enhancing decision support system for disaster crises: leveraging emerging technologies for improved civil preparedness and crisis management

Open topic on enhanced prevention, detection and deterrence of societal issues related to various forms of crime

Detection and characterisation of threats or illegal/ smuggled goods in cargo

Open topic on research and innovation for effective management of EU external borders that promotes fundamental rights and EU values

Community policing in diverse societies in Europe

Effective and evidence-based responses to the increased availability and use of synthetic drugs and stimulants in Europe

Open Topic on advanced protective gear optimized for CBRN-E (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives) environments and new generation of smart protective equipment for disaster responders

Demand-led innovation in security

Enhancing physical protection of critical infrastructures

Impact of malicious use of Open-Source Intelligence on critical infrastructure business continuity

Enhancing preparedness for large-scale cross-border disasters

Online harms detection and investigation tools using a short development cycle model

Industrial processes and equipment for innovative, reliable and scalable tandem technologies (EUPI-PV Partnership)

Demonstration of hydropower technologies for efficient and forward-looking refurbishment of existing hydropower plants

Advanced TSO control rooms to enhance grid observability, stability and resilience

Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADSM) for more efficient and flexible distribution grids

Combining conventional and innovative construction materials, products and techniques for sustainable and beautiful buildings

Integrated Approaches for Retrofitting Infrastructures with Innovative Energy Storage Technologies

Intergenerational neighbourhoods and communities aligned with the New European Bauhaus

The transformative potential of co-governance in the green transition of neighbourhoods

Fostering and maintaining the social fabric for the green transition in neighbourhoods

Frequently Asked Questions About Security EU Grants