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

Regional Cable Hubs

Coordinated preparedness testing and other preparedness actions

Uptake of innovative cybersecurity solutions for SMEs

Privacy Enhancing Technologies

Open topic on secured and facilitated crossing of external borders

Open topic on better customs and supply chain security

Humanitarian demining / Unexploded Ordnance Disposal (UXO) of civil areas and unexploded ordnance risk education

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

Data repository for security research and innovation

Uptake Acceleration Services

The impact of common space on neighbourhood communities

Accelerating uptake through open proposals for advanced SME innovation

Open grounds for pre-commercial procurement of innovative security technologies

Network of neighbourhoods for innovative policies on gentrification

Advancing autonomous systems and robotics for high-risk disaster response, strengthening disaster resilience in conflict-afflicted crisis zones

Demand-led innovation for civil security through Pre-Commercial Procurement (PCP)

Beautiful, sustainable and inclusive street furniture for the transformation of neighbourhoods

National Contact Points (NCPs) in the field of security and cybersecurity fostering the links with National Community building for Safe, Secure and Resilient Societies

Open topic on testing / validating tools, technologies and data used in cross-border prevention, preparedness and responses to climate extreme and geological events and chemical, biological or radiological emergency threats

Open topic on prevention, detection and deterrence of various forms of crime and terrorism through an enhanced understanding of the related societal issues

Open topic on modern information and forensic evidence analysis and on frontline policing

Open topic on improved intelligence picture and enhanced prevention, detection and deterrence of various forms of organised crime

Security of implementations of Post-Quantum Cryptography algorithms

New advanced tools and processes for Operational Cybersecurity

Integration of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) algorithms into high-level protocols

Open topic for role of the human factor for the resilience of critical infrastructures

Open topic on Improving disaster risk management and governance to ensure self-sufficiency and sustainability of operations in support of enhanced resilience

Generative AI for Cybersecurity applications

Open topic on efficient border surveillance and maritime security

Open topic for improved preparedness for, response to and recovery from large-scale disruptions of critical infrastructures

Frequently Asked Questions About Security EU Grants