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Horizon Europe Cluster 2 — Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society

Development Aid and Democratic Governance

Funds three research actions on how development aid can strengthen democratic governance, equality and multilateral cooperation.

ScheduledEuropean CommissionEU

Development aid can support democratic institutions and reduce inequality, but its effects on governance, poverty, peace, security and democratic resilience are complex and uneven. This action funds research that gives EU and national policymakers, aid agencies and development-cooperation organisations a stronger evidence base for designing effective and equitable partnerships.

Projects should ex

A Research and Innovation Action examining how development aid affects democratic institutions, equality, security, sustainable peace and global governance in EU relations with Enlargement, Neighbourhood and low- and lower-middle-income countries. Projects should identify funding gaps, study other public, private and philanthropic donors and geopolitical competitors, develop strategies for more inclusive and equitable multilateralism, and explore diplomatic approaches across the Humanitarian-Development-Peace nexus. International cooperation is strongly encouraged, as are civil-society participation, participatory research and gender-sensitive and intersectional analysis.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.23 Sept 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€12M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-CL2-2027-01-DEMOCRACY-05Source: ec.europa.eu