Deadline: 05-Nov-2026
The European Commission has launched a Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Actions programme to strengthen disaster preparedness, risk awareness, and societal resilience across Europe. The initiative supports AI-driven tools, digital twins, early warning systems, and whole-of-society approaches to improve disaster readiness and emergency coordination.
The programme has a total budget of €6 million, with an indicative EU contribution of around €3 million per project.
About the Programme
This funding opportunity focuses on improving how societies understand, prepare for, and respond to disasters through innovation, coordination, and inclusive governance.
It promotes a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach to disaster risk reduction and emergency preparedness.
Key Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Improve risk awareness across society
- Strengthen disaster preparedness planning
- Enhance societal resilience to hazards
- Support early warning to early action systems
- Improve coordination across sectors and governance levels
- Protect vulnerable and marginalized populations
Core Focus Areas
Funded projects may address:
Risk Awareness & Behaviour Change
- Public understanding of hazards and vulnerabilities
- Behavioural insights for preparedness
- Safety culture development
- Citizen engagement strategies
Preparedness & Planning
- Inclusive disaster preparedness plans
- Multi-level governance coordination
- Cross-sector emergency planning frameworks
- Resource allocation strategies
Response & Coordination Systems
- Integrated command-and-control systems
- Real-time decision-support tools
- Multi-agency coordination platforms
- Crisis communication systems
Technology & Innovation Priorities
The programme strongly encourages use of:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) decision-support systems
- Predictive analytics for disaster forecasting
- Digital twin technologies (including Destination Earth)
- Immersive and participatory digital tools
- Early warning and early action systems
- Digital simulation and scenario modelling platforms
Key Expected Outcomes
Projects should deliver:
- Improved societal preparedness and awareness
- Faster and more coordinated emergency responses
- Better integration between public and private stakeholders
- Enhanced resilience of vulnerable communities
- Evidence-based disaster risk governance systems
Inclusive and Whole-of-Society Approach
Projects must ensure participation from:
- Public authorities at all levels
- Civil society organisations
- Private sector actors
- Local communities
- Vulnerable and marginalized populations
Special emphasis is placed on:
- Equity in access to preparedness tools
- Inclusion of vulnerable groups
- Wildlife and environmental protection considerations
- Participatory governance models
EU Policy Alignment
Projects should align with:
- EU disaster risk reduction strategies
- Preparedness Union Strategy
- preparEU initiative
- Knowledge for Action in Prevention & Preparedness (KAPP)
- International disaster resilience frameworks
Funding Details
- Programme type: Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Actions (RIA)
- Total budget: €6 million
- EU contribution per project: ~€3 million
Eligible Applicants
Eligible entities include:
- Research institutions and universities
- Public authorities and emergency agencies
- Civil society organisations
- International organisations
- Private sector and technology providers
- Entities from EU and non-associated third countries
All applicants must comply with Horizon Europe eligibility rules.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Develop a disaster preparedness and resilience project proposal
- Integrate innovation (AI, digital twins, behavioural tools, etc.)
- Ensure multi-stakeholder and cross-sector collaboration
- Align with EU disaster risk policies and frameworks
- Submit via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal
- Include dissemination, communication, and exploitation plans
- Obtain a Participant Identification Code (PIC)
Strong proposals typically include:
- Clear behavioural and societal impact strategy
- Advanced digital or AI-enabled tools
- Strong governance and coordination frameworks
- Inclusive engagement with vulnerable populations
- Demonstrated real-world applicability
Tips for Applicants
To improve competitiveness:
- Emphasise real-world disaster preparedness use cases
- Combine technology with behavioural science insights
- Ensure strong interoperability between stakeholders
- Include scenario-based simulations and pilot testing
- Prioritise inclusivity and accessibility
- Align with EU-level disaster governance frameworks
Avoid proposals that are purely theoretical or lack implementation pathways.
FAQ
What is the goal of this programme?
To improve disaster preparedness, risk awareness, and resilience across European society.
How much funding is available?
€6 million total, with around €3 million per project.
What technologies are encouraged?
AI, digital twins, predictive analytics, immersive tools, and early warning systems.
Who can apply?
Public and private organisations, research institutions, civil society groups, and international entities.
Is citizen participation required?
Yes. A whole-of-society approach including vulnerable populations is essential.
Where must proposals be submitted?
Through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
Conclusion
The Horizon Europe Disaster Preparedness and Resilience programme supports innovative, inclusive, and technology-driven approaches to strengthening Europe’s ability to anticipate and respond to disasters. By combining AI, digital tools, behavioural science, and coordinated governance, the initiative aims to build a more resilient and well-prepared society across all levels.
For more information, visit European Commission.
