Besides taking advantage of funding opportunities earmarked for citizen science, you can implement citizen science as a research method in your project application through 'regular' funding channels such as FWO (Research Foundation - Flanders), VLAIO (Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship) and BELSPO (Belgian Science Policy Office).
The European Commission invites cities and partners to design and host Science Comes to Town 2029, a one-year programme connecting citizens and science through participatory and inclusive events. The programme includes EUCYS and EU TalentOn and strongly encourages citizen science approaches and community engagement.
Promoting public engagement in R&I and scientific literacy
Deadline:
12/03/2027
The European Commission invites proposals that develop innovative citizen science and science communication approaches, focusing either on engaging young people in research or scaling national engagement initiatives to the ERA level. This call is highly relevant for organisations aiming to co-create new methods with diverse publics and reinforce trust in science.
Unleashing the potential of sustainable small-scale aquatic food production and recreational fisheries for prosperous local communities
Deadline:
24/09/2027
This call focuses on projects related to small‑scale aquatic food production (fisheries, aquaculture, recreational fisheries) that develop new methods and digital tools to measure their ecological and socio‑economic impact. Citizen science (such as citizen observations, local knowledge, and participatory data collection, e.g. via apps or social media) is highlighted in the call text.
Living Labs for the eradication and/or management of invasive alien species
Deadline:
23/09/2027
The European Commission launches a Horizon Europe call for living labs on invasive alien species, bringing together researchers, authorities, citizens and other stakeholders to co-create solutions for detection, monitoring, control and policy. Citizen science (e.g. public reporting, eDNA, participatory data collection) and FAIR open data are key to better understand impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem services and human health.
Survey: How do researchers and practitioners deal with challenges in participatory research for technology development?
Do you have experience in participatory research? This short survey is for you! Aline Duelen (imec-SMIT, VUB) researches participatory research practices within technological development, focusing on common challenges and strategies for involving vulnerable citizens.
Pitch your project on the Citizen Science meets Water webinar
Are you working on a citizen science project related to hydrology or water management? Apply to pitch your project to a global audience during our Citizen Science meets Water webinar on February 11th.
Horizon Europe is the EU research and innovation program for the 2021-2027 period. It focuses on 5 main missions.
Citizen science calls can be found in the Funding and Tenders portal.
Furthermore, Citizen Science may also be used as a research method in other calls under the European funding programs.
