LIFE Programme 2026

Call Info

Beneficiaries: Businesses, NGOs, Scientific Organisations, Local Authorities
Total budget: 601,5 M€
Deadline: 22 September 2026

The LIFE Programme 2026 provides funding for projects related to the environment, nature and biodiversity, climate action, and the transition to clean energy. Applications for the 2026 Programme are now open, with a total budget of 601.5M€.

The programme supports projects with potential for demonstration, replication and practical application that contribute to the green transition, the circular economy, biodiversity protection, climate mitigation and adaptation, and energy efficiency.

LIFE Programme: Overview

LIFE is the European Union’s main funding instrument for the environment and climate action. For the period 2021–2027, it is organised into four sub-programmes: Nature and Biodiversity, Circular Economy and Quality of Life, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, and Clean Energy Transition.

In 2026, the programme will support projects that contribute to the following:

Protection and restoration of nature and biodiversity;
Circular economy, waste prevention and pollution reduction;
Emissions reduction and adaptation to climate change;
Energy efficiency, renewable energy and the energy transition;
Implementation of the European Union’s environmental and climate policies.

Areas of support

The 2026 budget allocation is spread across several areas, including

Nature and Biodiversity: 166M€;
Circular Economy and Zero Pollution: 79M€;
Climate Change Adaptation: 28M€;
Climate Change Mitigation: 28M€;
Transition to Clean Energy: 85.5M€;
Strategic Nature Projects: 75M€;
Strategic Integrated Environmental Projects: 58M€;
Strategic Integrated Climate Projects: 30M€.

Eligible Projects

LIFE supports various types of projects, including:

Standard Action Projects (SAPs)
Demonstration, pilot, best practice or implementation projects for environmental and climate solutions.
Strategic Nature Projects (SNaPs)
Strategic projects for the implementation of nature and biodiversity plans and priorities.
Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs)
Large-scale projects for the implementation of environmental and climate strategies or plans.
Coordination and Support Actions (CSA)
Coordination and support projects in the field of the clean energy transition.

Who Can Apply?

Applications may be submitted by legal entities established in the European Union or in countries associated with the LIFE Programme. Depending on the type of project and the topic, applications may be submitted by a single entity or by consortia. Individuals are not eligible.

Potential beneficiaries include:

Companies;
Local authorities and public bodies;
NGOs and associations;
Universities and research centres;
Energy and environment agencies;
Social sector organisations and local communities.

Funding

The co-financing rate varies depending on the type of project and its topic. Generally, the maximum co-financing rate for Standard Action Projects is 60% though this may rise to 75% for specific Nature and Biodiversity projects that meet certain conditions.

Deadlines

Standard Action Projects: the deadline is 22 September 2026.
SNaP and SIP strategic projects: the submission process is in two stages, with a concept note due by 3 September 2026 and a full proposal due by 4 March 2027.

The LIFE programme offers an opportunity for environmental and climate projects

LIFE is particularly relevant for organisations with innovative, demonstrative or replicable projects that clearly impact the environment or climate and align with European policies. It is not the most suitable instrument for conventional productive investments. The focus is on solutions that have European added value, replication potential, a measurable impact, and contribute to environmental, climate or energy objectives.

INOVA+ can support you with context analysis, identifying the most suitable LIFE topic, structuring the consortium, designing the project technically, preparing the budget and documentation, and submitting the application. With the September 2026 deadlines approaching, now is the right time to validate your idea, secure partners, and develop a competitive application. Get in touch!