Application Deadline:
17 September 2026
About Organisation
The European Commission is the executive body of the European Union responsible for developing policies, implementing legislation, and supporting initiatives that address major societal and environmental challenges. Through Horizon Europe, the Commission funds research and innovation projects that contribute to sustainable development, climate resilience, environmental protection, and economic growth. It works with public institutions, research organisations, businesses, and international partners to advance scientific knowledge and practical solutions. This funding opportunity reflects the Commission’s commitment to strengthening water resilience, supporting sustainable agricultural systems, and promoting innovative approaches to groundwater management across diverse regions facing increasing climate-related water challenges.
About the Grant
The Managed Aquifer Recharge Grants 2026 initiative aims to strengthen water resilience in agriculture by advancing groundwater recharge techniques and improving water management practices in rural areas. The programme supports projects focused on managed aquifer recharge (MAR), climate adaptation, drought resilience, groundwater monitoring, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable agricultural water use. Applicants are expected to develop and validate methodologies for identifying suitable MAR locations, establish monitoring systems, assess environmental and economic impacts, and create viable business models. The initiative encourages both nature-based and engineered solutions that improve water storage capacity while reducing environmental pressures and enhancing long-term agricultural sustainability.
Who can Apply?
Eligibility is open to any legal entity that meets the requirements outlined under Horizon Europe regulations. Applicants may include universities, research institutions, nonprofit organisations, government agencies, private companies, startups, international organisations, and other legally recognised entities. Participation is permitted regardless of country of establishment, including entities from non-associated third countries, provided all applicable programme conditions are satisfied. Projects should demonstrate expertise in groundwater management, climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, environmental monitoring, ecosystem restoration, or related fields. Applicants are encouraged to form collaborative partnerships capable of delivering innovative, scalable, and scientifically robust solutions for water resilience and managed aquifer recharge.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants should prepare a detailed project proposal addressing the programme objectives and expected outcomes. Proposals should include technical methodologies, implementation plans, monitoring frameworks, sustainability assessments, business models, governance approaches, and case study validation strategies. Applications must comply with Horizon Europe requirements and demonstrate how the project will contribute to improved groundwater management, agricultural water resilience, climate adaptation, and sustainable rural development.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 17 September 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
