Deadline: 02-Feb-2026
The Nordic Ocean Programme 2025–2027 invites interdisciplinary research projects to support sustainable ocean governance in the Nordic region. With a budget of 7.25 million DKK, the programme funds projects addressing marine pollution, microplastics, biodiversity, and sustainable use, emphasizing policy relevance, regional collaboration, and applied solutions that inform both Nordic and global decision-making.
Overview
The Nordic Ocean Programme, initiated by the Nordic Council of Ministers, is designed to support research projects that strengthen sustainable management of marine ecosystems. The initiative responds to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, aligning with long-term Vision 2030 goals.
The programme emphasizes:
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Policy-relevant, interdisciplinary research
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Strengthening the science-policy interface
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Generating practical solutions for regional and global ocean governance
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Promoting Nordic collaboration across multiple scientific and societal fields
Priority Areas
1. Marine Pollution
Focuses on understanding and mitigating pollution impacts, with an emphasis on:
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Plastic waste and microplastics
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Monitoring and modelling of pollutant dynamics
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Governance mechanisms to reduce harmful effects on ocean ecosystems
2. Sustainable Use and Marine Spatial Planning
Projects should explore strategies for responsible use of marine spaces, integrating:
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Biodiversity protection
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Climate considerations
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Development of resilient and productive marine ecosystems
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Approaches that balance environmental protection with human use
Eligibility
Eligible proposals must:
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Be policy-relevant with clear practical application
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Be interdisciplinary, combining expertise from multiple scientific and societal fields
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Involve strong Nordic collaboration, with project consortia including partners from at least three Nordic countries
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Engage with programme networks and participate in knowledge-sharing activities
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Contribute to international frameworks, including OSPAR, HELCOM, and the UN Decades for Ocean Science and Ecosystem Restoration
Funding and Support
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Total budget: 7.25 million DKK for 2026–2027
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Funding supports:
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Interdisciplinary research projects addressing key marine challenges
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Activities that strengthen policy-science integration
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Participation in Nordic and international knowledge-sharing networks
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Expected Outcomes
Funded projects are expected to:
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Deliver high-quality scientific knowledge on marine ecosystems
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Provide practical solutions for policymakers and resource managers
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Strengthen regional cooperation across Nordic countries
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Contribute to global ocean governance initiatives
How to Apply
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Form a Nordic consortium with partners from at least three Nordic countries
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Develop an interdisciplinary research proposal aligned with priority areas
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Demonstrate the policy relevance and practical application of your project
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Plan for knowledge sharing and engagement with relevant networks
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Submit the proposal according to the programme’s official call for applications
Tips for Success
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Highlight collaboration across disciplines and countries
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Ensure the project addresses policy-relevant marine challenges
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Emphasize contributions to sustainable ocean governance and applied solutions
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Include strategies for data sharing, monitoring, and modelling
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Connect proposals to international frameworks (OSPAR, HELCOM, UN Ocean Decade)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Failing to include partners from at least three Nordic countries
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Submitting projects lacking policy relevance or practical outcomes
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Overlooking knowledge-sharing and engagement obligations
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Ignoring interdisciplinary approaches necessary for complex ocean challenges
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Not aligning research with global and regional governance frameworks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply?
Research teams and consortia with partners from Nordic countries, combining interdisciplinary expertise.
What are the main themes?
Marine pollution (plastic, microplastics), sustainable use, biodiversity protection, and climate-resilient marine spatial planning.
What is the funding amount?
The programme has 7.25 million DKK available for the 2026–2027 period.
How many Nordic countries must be represented?
Project consortia must include partners from at least three Nordic countries.
Is policy relevance required?
Yes, projects must provide solutions and knowledge that inform decision-making at regional and international levels.
Are international frameworks involved?
Yes, projects should contribute to OSPAR, HELCOM, and the UN Decades for Ocean Science and Ecosystem Restoration.
What is expected after funding?
Active participation in programme networks, knowledge sharing, and dissemination of results for both regional and global impact.
Conclusion
The Nordic Ocean Programme 2025–2027 provides a strategic platform for interdisciplinary, policy-relevant research that addresses pressing marine challenges. By fostering Nordic collaboration and promoting sustainable ocean governance, the programme supports applied research with lasting impact on regional and global ocean policy, ecosystem management, and climate resilience.
For more information, visit The Nordic Council of Ministers.