The programme
Le LIFE programme is the European Union's dedicated funding instrument for environmental and climate action initiatives.
The budget for the programme for the period 2021-2027 is €5.45 billion.
Programme priorities
The LIFE programme is structured around four key sub-programmes:
- Nature and Biodiversity
Focusing on the protection and restoration of nature in Europe, this sub-programme aims to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity. It funds projects that preserve biodiversity, habitats and species, generating concrete results in terms of conservation.
- Circular Economy and Quality of Life
This sub-programme facilitates the transition to an economy that is sustainable, circular, free of toxic substances, energy-efficient and resilient to climate change. It supports initiatives that directly improve environmental quality or integrate sustainability objectives into other policies.
- Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change
This area supports the transition to a carbon-neutral economy by promoting energy efficiency, the uptake of renewable energies and resilience-building strategies. The projects contribute to sustainable development and the EU's climate objectives.
- Transition to Clean Energy
Focused on accelerating the transition to an economy based on energy efficiency and renewable energies, this sub-programme finances coordination and support actions (other action grants) to facilitate this transition across Europe.
Types of projects funded
Standard Action Projects (SAPs)
These are targeted, autonomous projects that meet specific objectives of the LIFE programme, such as nature conservation, climate action or the transition to a circular economy.
Strategic projects
These are large-scale initiatives designed to implement policies and action plans at regional, national or transnational level, including Strategic Nature Projects (SNaPs) and Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) for wider environmental and climate objectives.
Technical Assistance and Operating Grants
These grants provide support to prepare and implement future projects (e.g. Technical Assistance for Preparation) or finance the operational costs of organisations contributing to the objectives of the LIFE programme.
Timetable and submission process
The calls will be officially launched on first quarter 2025with detailed information on the application process, evaluation criteria and guidance documents available on the European Commission's Funding Opportunities and Tenders portal.
Calls for project proposals, including Standard Action Projects and Coordination and Support Action Grants, are expected to close in September 2025 for single-stage calls, and in March 2026 for two-stage proposals.
For further information:
How can Scinnov help you?
Scinnov offers comprehensive support to applicants throughout the funding process. With a wealth of experience in LIFE applications, our services include :
- Grant Strategy and Alignment Ensuring that your project is in line with the objectives of the LIFE programme.
- Preparing the Application : Drafting of technical, administrative and budgetary documents.
- Examination and validation In-depth examination of submitted documents.
- Communication with the authorities : Support in interactions with funding authorities.
- Project Management Assistance with grant and consortium agreements, reports, amendments, deliverables, milestones, etc.
Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the LIFE programme, ensuring that your proposal is competitive and impactful.
Need help with your project?
Our team will help you define your needs so that we can offer you the most appropriate service.
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