The LIFE Programme is the European Union’s funding initiative dedicated to supporting innovative projects in the fields of environment, climate, and clean energy.

Since 1992, it has co-financed over 6,000 projects, playing a key role in driving Europe’s ecological transition.

This article will take a detailed look at the LIFE Programme, offering you an overview of the key information you need to know in order to submit a project proposal.

For the 2021–2027 period, LIFE has a budget of over €5.4 billion, divided among four key sub-programmes:

• Nature and Biodiversity – aims to protect and restore Europe’s natural heritage, helping to reverse biodiversity loss;
  
• Circular Economy and Quality of Life – supports the shift towards a sustainable, circular economy while improving environmental quality;
  
• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation – promotes the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation to climate change;
  
• Clean Energy Transition – encourages energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy sources, supporting the shift to a low-carbon economy.

Four strategic pillars, one common goal: building a more sustainable future.

The LIFE Programme is open to a wide range of applicants, including:

• Public authorities: local, regional, and national bodies;
• Private organizations: small and medium-sized enterprises, large companies;
• Non-profit organizations: associations, NGOs, foundations;
• Research institutes and universities: entities engaged in research and development activities.

Participation is open to all EU Member States, as well as associated third countries. While individuals are not eligible, all other legally registered entities may apply, either individually or as part of a consortium.

Calls for proposals are published annually on the official LIFE website. Interested entities must submit project proposals aligned with the objectives of the sub-programmes listed above. It is crucial to develop strong, innovative proposals with clear environmental and climate benefits.

The 2025 LIFE Programme calls were published last April on the Funding & Tender Opportunities Portal.

Below are the key deadlines for submitting proposals:

🔹 Standard Action Projects (SAP)

• Circular Economy and Quality of Life: 23 September 2025
• Nature and Biodiversity: 23 September 2025
• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: 23 September 2025

🔹 Coordination and Support Action Grants (CSA)

• Clean Energy Transition: 23 September 2025

🔹 Strategic Integrated Projects (SIP/SNAP)

• Concept notes deadline: 4 September 2025
• Full proposals deadline: 5 March 2026

🔹 Technical Assistance for SIP and SNAP preparation

• Deadline: 23 September 2025

🔹 Technical Assistance Replication

• Deadline: 23 September 2025

🔹 Specific Operating Grant Agreements (SGA OG)

• By invitation only, for framework partnership members: 25 September 2025 (opening/closing dates to be confirmed)

🔹 Preparatory LIFE Projects (PLP)

For specific legislative and policy priorities: 23 September 2025

In addition to direct co-financing that can cover between 60% and 75% of eligible costs, participation in the LIFE Programme offers a number of strategic advantages for public bodies, businesses, universities, and third-sector organizations:

Visibility at the European level

Being selected for a LIFE project means receiving official recognition from the European Commission. LIFE projects are often showcased as best practices in European environmental strategies and major institutional events, enhancing the reputation and credibility of the applicant organization both locally and internationally.

Networking with international partners

LIFE is also a powerful collaboration platform. Participation offers opportunities to connect with other high-profile organizations working in similar fields, making it easier to build strong consortia for future European projects, including under other programmes such as Horizon Europe or Interreg.

Technical and strategic support

Beyond funding, the programme provides technical guidelines, digital tools, and direct support from CINEA to help maximize project effectiveness. This helps beneficiaries improve the quality of their actions and manage the project to high standards.

Boosting skills and impact

LIFE is a driver of transformation. Participation helps enhance existing know-how, technologies, and best practices, extending their reach and recognition. Projects have tangible impacts at local, regional, and transnational levels, often influencing public policy and serving as replicable models in other European contexts.

Socialit offers specialized consultancy services for public authorities, businesses, and no-profits interested in applying for LIFE Programme calls. Our expert team can support you through all stages of the process, from proposal development to project management, boosting your chances of success.

Contact us today for a personalized consultation and find out how we can help turn your idea into a LIFE-funded project.