Great news for the cybersecurity community! Two major EU funding programmes have just opened their doors for 2025. Whether you’re working on cutting-edge research or practical security solutions, these calls offer real opportunities to make an impact.
Digital Europe Programme – ECCC cybersecurity call
This programme focuses on practical, real-world applications that can strengthen Europe’s cybersecurity landscape.
What they’re looking for:
- Dedicated action to reinforce hospitals and healthcare providers
- Transition to post-quantum Public Key Infrastructures
- Enhancing the National Coordination Centre (NCC) Network
When to apply:
Deadline is 7 October 2025, 17:00 Brussels time
Horizon Europe – Civil Security for Society
If you’re more research-focused, Horizon Europe’s latest cybersecurity calls might be perfect for you. These calls support innovative research that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in cybersecurity.
Research areas include:
- New advanced tools and processes for operational cybersecurity
- Generative AI for cybersecurity applications
- Privacy enhancing technologies
- Three focused areas on Post-Quantum Cryptography: security implementations, protocol integration, and security evaluations
When to apply:
Deadline is 12 November 2025, 17:00 Brussels time
Before you start writing your proposal
Both programmes have specific requirements that can make or break your application. Here’s what successful applicants do differently:
- Get the basics right first. Read the work programme thoroughly – it’s not just bureaucracy; it contains the roadmap to success. For Horizon Europe especially, pay close attention to Cluster 3’s special eligibility criteria.
- Remember the civilian focus. All activities must be strictly for civilian applications. This isn’t just a checkbox: reviewers take this seriously.
- Follow the formatting rules religiously. No hyperlinks in proposals, strict page limits, and specific formatting requirements.
- Build the right consortium. You need the right mix of countries, organisation types, and expertise levels.
Get expert help
Writing a winning proposal isn’t easy, but you don’t have to figure it out alone:
We’ve distilled years of experience into a practical guide that covers everything from understanding call requirements to avoiding the mistakes that sink applications.
See the most common errors in Horizon Europe applications and how to avoid them.
These resources have helped dozens of organisations secure funding. They’re based on real feedback from evaluators and successful applicants.
We look forward to seeing strong and innovative proposals from the cybersecurity community. Best wishes to all applicants!