The European Commission has published two LIFE calls for operating grants for non-profit organizations. The aim is to strengthen civil society’s participation in EU policy dialogue and to support organizations in implementing the Union’s environmental and climate objectives, including the transition to clean energy.
The indicative budget is EUR 14.5 million per year. To be considered for a LIFE operating grant for the 2026 financial year, organizations must submit applications under both calls.
1. Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA OG)
This call concerns the conclusion of framework partnerships that contribute to achieving the objectives of the LIFE sub-programmes:
- ● Circular Economy and Quality of Life
- ● Nature and Biodiversity
- ● Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
- ● Clean Energy Transition
The partnership agreements are intended to support NGOs and networks of non-profit entities that are primarily active in environmental or climate protection and pursue objectives of general interest to the Union. The operating grants are intended to help these organisations contribute effectively to EU policy and strengthen their capacities.
Submission deadline: 8 September 2026, 17:00 CEST
2) Specific Operating Grant Agreements (SGA OG)
This call concerns specific LIFE operating grant agreements (Specific Operating Grant Agreements – SGA OG). Only organisations whose application for a LIFE 2026 Framework Partnership Agreement has been successfully evaluated are eligible.
Framework Partnership Agreements form the basis for long-term cooperation and provide a framework for regular or recurring grants. They are intended for non-profit organisations involved in the development, implementation or enforcement of EU legislation and policy measures in the fields of the environment, climate or the energy transition. The activities must be aligned with the objectives of the LIFE Programme.
A Framework Partnership Agreement is a prerequisite for a specific operating grant but does not create an automatic entitlement to funding.
Submission deadline: 22 September 2026, 17:00 CEST