Deadline: 17-Nov-2025
The iNNO SED has launched an Open Call inviting local and regional authorities from eligible Associated Regions to join its mission to improve sediment management and tackle critical sediment-related challenges.
The initiative focuses on advancing and showcasing innovative sediment assessment methodologies while demonstrating practical solutions for issues such as riverbed erosion, continuous sedimentation in reservoirs, and pollution in river sediments. These challenges, while evident in the Danube River Basin, affect many large river systems worldwide as a result of human interventions such as river regulation, hydropower operations, and flood protection measures.
Through this call, iNNO SED aims to expand its network of regions and accelerate the implementation of the EU Mission Ocean by deploying small-scale pilot projects that prove the adaptability and scalability of its methods. Selected Associated Regions will work closely with iNNO SED experts to create detailed roadmaps for sustainable sediment management. These roadmaps will include an analysis of sediment challenges, recommendations for monitoring and modelling techniques, proposed measures tailored to local conditions, identification of key stakeholders, potential funding sources, and long-term evaluation strategies to ensure sustainability and impact.
Participating regions will gain access to the project’s expertise, tools, and resources to develop their own locally adapted sediment management strategies. This collaboration is designed to build local capacity, promote knowledge transfer, and demonstrate how innovative sediment management methods can be successfully implemented across different river systems. The initiative also seeks to strengthen partnerships and highlight the broader applicability of iNNO SED solutions in addressing shared environmental challenges.
The programme offers financial support of up to EUR 100,000 per region, provided as grants. Each Associated Region can benefit from this funding only once during the project. Grants will be disbursed in two instalments: a pre-financing payment of 50% of the project budget and a final payment upon approval of the final report and deliverables. Eligible applicants must be local or regional authorities based in EU Member States or Associated Countries not already part of the iNNO SED consortium. Proposals must be submitted in English and follow the official application template, with only one proposal accepted per applicant.
This call offers a unique opportunity for regions to join a Europe-wide effort to develop and scale innovative solutions for sediment management, protecting river ecosystems while strengthening their resilience to environmental pressures.
For more information, visit iNNO SED.
