Apply Now: EOSC Federation Open Science Initiative

The European Commission offers €40 million to support research communities in adopting FAIR data and open science practices through the EOSC Federation. Grants fund training, interoperability, cascading support for projects, and sustainable integration of research services for enhanced adoption of FAIR principles and open science across Europe.

What is the EOSC FAIR Data and Open Science Initiative?

This Horizon Europe initiative supports European research communities in accelerating adoption of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles and open science practices through the EOSC Federation. It promotes sustainable, integrated research infrastructures, enhances interoperability, and strengthens alignment with EOSC standards across scientific disciplines.

Key Objectives

• Accelerate adoption of FAIR principles and open science by research communities

• Support open science projects via cascading grants

• Coordinate and network thematic research and research infrastructure communities

• Develop training programs on FAIR and open science practices

• Foster interoperability and integration of research data and services

• Ensure sustainable, long-term provision of scientific outcomes within the EOSC Federation

Target Activities

1. FAIR and Open Science Adoption:

   • Increase uptake of EOSC resources by researchers

   • Integrate FAIR data into scientific workflows

   • Support adoption of open science policies and practices

2. Thematic Research & Infrastructure Integration:

   • Coordinate competence centers

   • Develop tailored training programs

   • Foster interoperability of services and data repositories

   • Establish mechanisms for sustainable long-term integration

   • Engage underrepresented research communities

Who Can Apply?

• Any legal entity, regardless of establishment location

• Entities from EU member states, non-associated third countries, or international organizations

• Applicants must meet the Horizon Europe Regulation eligibility requirements

Funding Details

• Total Funding Available: Approximately €40,000,000

• Purpose: Support research communities in FAIR adoption, open science integration, training, interoperability, and sustainability within the EOSC Federation

How to Apply

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure compliance with Horizon Europe Regulation requirements

2. Develop Proposal: Define objectives, workflows, integration plans, and training activities for FAIR adoption and open science

3. Prepare Application Documents: Include project description, implementation plan, consortium details, and budget

4. Submit Application: Follow Horizon Europe submission guidelines

5. Evaluation: Proposals are assessed on scientific and technical merit, impact, and implementation quality

Why It Matters

This initiative strengthens European research infrastructure by:

• Promoting FAIR data and open science practices

• Enhancing interoperability of data and services

• Supporting sustainable, long-term integration of research outputs

• Encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration and inclusion of underrepresented communities

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to demonstrate alignment with FAIR principles and EOSC standards

• Overlooking sustainability and long-term integration plans

• Ignoring interoperability and coordination with thematic research communities

• Submitting incomplete or non-compliant Horizon Europe applications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can participate? Any legal entity, including organizations from EU, non-associated third countries, or international organizations.
2. What is the total funding available? Approximately €40 million.
3. What are the main objectives? Promote FAIR data adoption, open science practices, interoperability, training, and sustainable integration of research outputs.
4. Can non-European entities apply? Yes, if they meet Horizon Europe eligibility criteria.
5. Are there specific thematic research areas? The initiative targets multiple research communities, research infrastructures, and underrepresented groups.
6. Is training included? Yes, proposals should include tailored training programs on FAIR data and open science practices.
7. How are applications evaluated? Based on scientific and technical quality, impact, implementation feasibility, and alignment with EOSC standards.

Conclusion

The EOSC Federation initiative provides significant funding to accelerate FAIR data adoption and open science practices across European research communities. By supporting interoperability, training, and sustainable integration, this program enhances collaboration, inclusion, and the long-term impact of research infrastructures within Europe and beyond.