Open Call: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Use of Vertical Space supports the development and demonstration of innovative, sustainable solutions utilizing underused vertical spaces above buildings or streets to improve housing availability and enhance urban green spaces.
The European Commission is launching a €15,000,000 grant initiative through this call. The program aims to balance rising housing demands with biodiversity protection by limiting urban sprawl and fostering livable neighborhoods through smarter utilization of the existing built environment. Projects must focus on developing and demonstrating at least one aesthetically positive solution, such as vertical extensions, rooftop gardens, urban agriculture, or multifunctional structures. Furthermore, successful initiatives must integrate circularity principles and conduct comprehensive life-cycle environmental, social, and economic impact assessments.
Funded projects are expected to have an indicative budget of approximately €5,000,000 per initiative. Applicants must actively manage densification risks and propose practical strategies to overcome regulatory, technical, and societal barriers, while aligning with broader EU urban greening and environmental policy goals.
This opportunity is open to any legal entity established under national, EU, or international law. Eligibility extends to organizations from non-associated third countries and international organizations, subject to Horizon Europe conditions.
Proposals must demonstrate a participatory, transdisciplinary approach that actively engages local communities and relevant stakeholders. Successful applications must also provide practical strategies to identify and mitigate regulatory, technical, and societal barriers, manage potential negative effects of urban densification, evaluate the project's capacity to reduce land-use demand, and align with broader environmental policy goals.
Closing Date: 30 November 2026
Post Date: May 18, 2026
Interested parties may submit proposals via the designated application portal.
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Submission Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Collaboration
International collaboration
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