Funding Citizen Science Projects in the EU: Opportunities, Challenges and Practical Advice
Citizen science has become an increasingly important component of European research and innovation, empowering communities to co-create knowledge, influence policy, and contribute to scientific excellence. Yet for many practitioners, finding and securing EU funding for citizen science remains a complex and overwhelming process.
In November, within the unique learning environment of the ScienceUs Upscale Academy, representatives from the five selected projects participated in a workshop dedicated to the topic of funding, led by Nikos Arslanoglou, Project Manager of NKUA and communication and dissemination leader. The session was held online and made use of the interactive platform Miro for both collaboration and documentation. Miro is also the primary digital tool used by the Upscale Academy for mentoring and all other academy sessions. A snapshot of how the platform was used during the workshop can be found below.
ScienceUs is an EU-funded project with the objective of generating an EU-wide network of connected citizen science initiatives. This will be achieved through a combined support programme of direct funding and support services (the Upscale Academy), which is currently being delivered to a group of five high-potential citizen science initiatives.
This article briefly highlights the shared experiences, strategies, and advice for navigating the funding landscape more efficiently that arose from the discussions during the workshop.
Most participants had engaged with EU funding at some point, whether through Horizon Europe, national programmes, or mobility schemes such as the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships.
However, many highlighted common challenges: identifying the right call, securing the right partners, and understanding what level of ambition is realistic. Furthermore, lack of time, human and financial resources, and limited experience were also noted as barriers to applying for funding calls.
Finding Calls: A Diverse and Sometimes Confusing Landscape
One recurring message from participants was clear: searching for funding is a skill in itself.
The EU funding landscape is vast, diverse, and highly fragmented, and navigating it can be time-consuming and demanding. Furthermore, finding a call specifically focused on citizen science can be difficult.
However, several tools and strategies can help navigate this landscape. A first point of call is undoubtedly the EU Funding and Tenders Portal, which serves as the single reference point for prospective applicants for all available calls for funding (grants) and tenders (procurements and prizes) managed by the European Commission and other EU services. Using filters and carefully chosen keywords, as well as reading widely around the topic of your chosen call (including topic-related documents, guidance, and instructions), is crucial. It is also important to ensure that the call you have identified aligns with your project’s long-term vision.
As it can be challenging to find funding calls dedicated to citizen science, integrating citizen science into broader objectives—such as public engagement, data collection, or multi-stakeholder collaboration—can be helpful.
It was also stressed during the discussion that newcomers should be actively encouraged. Bringing in partners who have never received EU funding enriches consortia and strengthens impact.
The Importance of Networking and Partner Finding
While finding project partners is not a prerequisite for applying to an EU funding call, it is strongly encouraged. For example, connecting with similar organisations in other countries can open doors to transnational projects and help identify complementary strengths.
Participants in the workshop stressed the value of cultivating networks by attending conferences and other events. Nikos also recommended advertising one’s expertise and experience by creating a profile on partner-search platforms, thereby increasing the likelihood of being approached by other projects or potential partners. While the Funding & Tenders Portal can help identify partners, most agreed that personal networks remain more effective. Doing both, of course, increases opportunities further.
Writing a Strong Proposal: Realistic Ambition and Clear Objectives
When it comes to proposal writing, the message was consistent: read the call text carefully and ensure your objectives align tightly with it. While innovation and ambition are important, being overly ambitious can be risky, as reviewers expect a proposal to match the scope – not exceed it.
Useful tips for proposal writing include starting with clear objectives that reflect the call’s purpose, combining your own ideas with what the call explicitly asks for, and structuring the project around standard work packages. Focusing on clarity and consistency in the writing is also essential.
During the discussion, the question was raised of whether involving or outsourcing the proposal-writing process to external consultancies can improve success rates. Nikos pointed out that while consultants can improve structure, writing, and the visual appeal of the document, success ultimately depends on the project’s quality, fit, and coherence. Working with a consultancy can be a useful learning exercise and provide a template for future applications, but it cannot replace a strong idea and consortium.
Conclusion: Building Confidence and Community
Funding citizen science projects in the EU requires persistence, creativity, and strong networks. While the landscape can feel overwhelming, communities like ScienceUs help reduce barriers by sharing knowledge, offering training, and providing practical support. By learning from each other, cultivating partnerships, and aligning ideas with the right calls, citizen science organisations can increasingly take advantage of the many opportunities the EU offers.
At the time of writing, the EU has also launched the new EU Funding and Tenders App, designed to make access to EU funding opportunities more intuitive and efficient for applicants and beneficiaries. This is an exciting development that will further enhance the platform’s usability.
“Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.”