Call for
Replication Projects

EUROLakes is launching a call for Associated Regions Associated Regions are landscapes experiencing environmental challenges similar to those addressed by the EUROLakes demonstration activities, or they may be less-developed regions where building capacities is key to implementing innovative nature-based solutions for the restoration of European natural lakes. to replicate its cutting-edge, nature-based solutions (NBS) for the restoration of European natural lakes. Local and regional authorities across Europe are invited to apply for funding to implement ecological restoration projects inspired by successful models in Italy, Germany and Romania.

Does your region face similar environmental challenges to EUROLakes’ demonstration sites?

Are you eager to protect and revitalize natural lake ecosystems in Europe?

If yes, then this is your chance to get involved in a transformative initiative supported by the Horizon Europe Programme of the European Union.

Important Call
Information

Selected regions will co-develop and implement tailored lake restoration plans based on the 4 Returns Framework methodology, using innovative, science-based tools, while receiving hands-on support and mentorship from EUROLakes experts and demonstration sites.

Who can apply?

The call is open to local and regional authorities (municipalities, conservation agencies, regional governments) from:

EU Member States with the exception of the countries already represented by the EUROLakes Consortium (in yellow below) and Horizon Europe Associated  

 

Find a list of the Horizon Europe Associated Countries here.

Mandatory requirements:

Within the applicants’ responsibilities are the overseeing, managing or protecting of natural lakes and their surrounding catchment areas

Applicants must be located in an “Associated Region” facing similar challenges to EUROLakes’ demo sites

Applicants must not have received funding under the same Horizon Europe topic

Applications can be submitted by a single eligible authority or as part of a local partnership. Other entities (e.g., NGOs, universities) may join as subcontractors, but only local and regional authorities can be the Lead Applicant.

 

More details about the EUROLakes Call can be found in the Call Guidelines for Applicants.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to carefully read this document before preparing their application.

Submission and
evaluation

How to Apply:

Download and fill in the Application Form. It is accessible from “Call Documents” below

Submit the Application Form PDFs via email to:

ruba.hilal@wetlands.org

gattenloehner@globalnature.org

Deadline for submission:
31 December 2025 at 17:00 CET

Evaluation Process:

All submissions will undergo a multi-stage evaluation process:

1. Eligibility screening – ensures applicants meet basic eligibility criteria

2. Review – based on six categories:

Project suitability (alignment with EUROLakes’ goals and methods)

Data availability for analysis (ecological indicators, historical records)

Replication potential (ability to implement and upscale NBS)

Economic feasibility (local benefits, funding potential)

Stakeholder engagement (local community involvement and support)

Impact and urgency (need for restoration, regional/national/international relevance)

3. Interviews – top 6-7 applicants will be invited to present their proposals

4. Final selection – top 3-5 proposals enter the funding phase

Timeline

Call documents