Deadline: 13-Apr-2026
The Nordic Chemicals Program 2026 invites authorities, researchers, and non-profit organizations to collaborate on projects that reduce risks from hazardous chemicals and pollution. The program emphasizes knowledge exchange, sustainable alternatives, and capacity building, with funding up to DKK 775,000 per project and a total pool of DKK 3,100,000.
Program Overview
The Nordic Chemicals Program supports initiatives that strengthen chemical management practices, enhance knowledge exchange among Nordic authorities, and promote sustainable solutions to reduce chemical and environmental risks. This open call focuses on research, capacity building, and collaboration to shape future regulatory frameworks.
Objectives
- Reduce risks from hazardous chemicals and pollution globally and locally
- Enhance knowledge exchange among Nordic chemical authorities
- Support sub-goals 3.1 and 3.3 of the Nordic Cooperation Programme for Environment and Climate 2025–2030
- Contribute to international agreements on chemicals, waste, pollutants, and plastics
- Promote sustainable chemicals and materials through research, regulation, and training
Key Focus Areas (Theme 4)
- Sustainable Alternatives: Expertise sharing on safer chemical substitutes
- Risk Assessment Methods: Adoption of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and One Substance One Assessment
- Biopesticides: Understanding RNA interference technologies and other innovations
- Eco-Design Interface: Strengthening links between chemical regulation and sustainable product development
- Advanced & Nano Materials: Supporting studies on risk assessment and management of emerging materials
Eligibility
- Municipal, regional, or national authorities
- Universities, colleges, and research institutes
- Non-profit organizations
- Business enterprises cannot be the main applicant but may participate as partners
- Projects must include participation from at least:
- Three Nordic countries, or
- Two Nordic countries and one Baltic country (Estonia, Lithuania, or Latvia)
- Additional international partners may contribute if relevant to project implementation
Funding Details
- Maximum funding per project: DKK 775,000
- Total funding pool: DKK 3,100,000
- Project duration: Up to 18 months (2026–2027)
Eligible Costs
- Research and development activities
- Capacity-building workshops and training
- Collaborative knowledge-sharing events
- Risk assessment studies and regulatory guidance development
How to Apply
- Identify a collaborative project aligned with the program objectives
- Ensure eligibility criteria are met, including Nordic country participation
- Develop a detailed project proposal, budget, and timeline
- Submit the application via the Nordic Council of Ministers’ designated portal
- Await review and selection based on merit, impact, and feasibility
Tips for Success
- Highlight cross-country collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Demonstrate alignment with sustainable chemicals and materials goals
- Reference previous Nordic Council of Ministers projects where relevant
- Include a clear plan for risk assessment, capacity building, and regulatory impact
- Ensure all partners and countries involved are clearly listed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Excluding required Nordic or Baltic country participation
- Submitting incomplete or unclear project proposals
- Failing to demonstrate capacity-building or knowledge-sharing components
- Overlooking sustainable alternatives or eco-design integration
- Including business enterprises as main applicants
FAQ Section
1. Who can apply? Municipal, regional, or national authorities, universities, research institutes, and non-profits.
2. Can businesses receive funding? No, businesses may participate as partners but cannot be main applicants.
3. How much funding is available per project? Up to DKK 775,000.
4. How long can projects run? Maximum duration is 18 months.
5. Which countries must participate? At least three Nordic countries, or two Nordic plus one Baltic country.
6. Are international partners allowed? Yes, if they contribute to project implementation or guidance.
7. What types of projects are prioritized? Projects advancing sustainable chemicals, risk assessment, knowledge exchange, and capacity building.
Conclusion
The Nordic Chemicals Program 2026 encourages collaborative, multi-country projects that advance sustainable chemical management and environmental protection. By funding research, training, and regulatory initiatives, the program strengthens Nordic expertise and promotes safer, innovative solutions to chemical and pollution risks.
For more information, visit Nordic Council of Ministers.
