The EU-funded research and innovation project, SpongeWorks, funded under the Horizon Europe programme, is offering an exciting opportunity for regions to join its Associated Regions network. Local and regional authorities, as well as river basin organisations from Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine, are eligible to apply for this unique initiative aimed at improving water retention, soil health, and climate resilience through Nature-based Solutions.
Why Participate?
By becoming an Associated Region, your area will receive support to implement innovative ‘sponge measures’ designed to enhance the sponge function of landscapes. This includes restoring rivers, meadows, and floodplains, applying soil conservation practices, introducing urban greening, and implementing sustainable urban water management solutions like rainwater harvesting.
Eight selected regions will receive up to €100,000 in grant funding to design, implement and evaluate these solutions tailored to their specific needs. Beyond financial support, SpongeWorks offers access to technical expertise, capacity building, and an international network of practitioners, with the aim of fostering community engagement and knowledge-sharing.
What’s in it for your region?
Financial Support: Up to €100,000 to implement impactful initiatives.
Capacity Building: Access to tools, workshops, and experienced practitioners.
Visibility and Networking: Opportunities to showcase your region at the European level through SpongeWorks events and the promotion of successful demonstration sites.
How to Apply?
The call is open to local and regional authorities, as well as river basin organisations from EU Member States and Horizon Europe associated countries, including Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine.
The deadline for applications is 31 January 2025.
Visit the SpongeWorks website to download the guidelines and the application form: https://spongeworks.eu/associated-regions
The official call for tenders: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/competitive-calls-cs/9481
