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European Commission

LIFE Operating Grants

Pays the annual running budget, not a specific project, of non-profits that work on EU environment, climate or clean-energy policy.

Applicants submit the standard LIFE OG application form for non-profit organisations together with a mandatory annex and a Detailed budget table specific to this grant type. The grant itself is a LIFE Operating Grants Flat Rate agreement, distinct from the lump-sum and cost-based models used for LIFE's project grants, and doesn't split direct and indirect costs the way an action grant does. Signin

The LIFE programme funds the general operating costs — not a specific project — of non-governmental organisations and non-profit networks that are primarily active in environment or climate action, including the clean energy transition, and that work on developing, implementing or enforcing EU policy and legislation. The aim is to strengthen civil society's role in EU policy dialogue and build these organisations' long-term capacity to be effective policy partners. Unlike LIFE's project (action) grants, this covers an organisation's annual activities as a whole.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.22 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
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.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€14.5M

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