Deadline: October 1, 2025
Are you working on an innovative marine research or conservation project? The Pure Ocean Challenges Call for Projects 2026 is now open for submissions! This exciting global funding opportunity supports cutting-edge projects that protect and restore the ocean. Selected projects can receive up to €80,000 over two years to drive real impact.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about this call — including funding amounts, eligibility criteria, focus areas, evaluation guidelines, and application instructions.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 1 October 2025
All applications must be submitted online by the stated deadline. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.
Funding Amount
The Pure Ocean Challenges Call for Projects 2026 offers up to €40,000 per year, for a maximum of two years.
This means applicants can receive up to €80,000 in total to support their project implementation.
Projects must also include information on any co-funding possibilities and outline a minimum operational budget if Pure Ocean cannot fully fund the project.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-profit organisations such as universities, research institutions, and NGOs.
- Collaborative projects that involve private actors (e.g. companies or startups) are encouraged.
- There are no age restrictions, and early-career researchers and practitioners are particularly welcome to apply.
Thematic Focus Areas
Projects must address at least one of the following Pure Ocean Challenges:
- Understanding and Tackling Marine Pollution at the Source
Innovative approaches to reduce pollution entering oceans and coastal areas. - Protecting Biodiversity and Restoring Marine Ecosystems
Actions that safeguard endangered species and rehabilitate degraded marine habitats. - Building Climate Resilience and Adaptation
Strategies that strengthen the ability of marine environments and coastal communities to withstand climate change impacts. - Improving Knowledge of Ocean Systems
Scientific research that enhances understanding of ocean processes and dynamics.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Innovation – Technological, social, nature-based or exploratory solutions.
- Relevance – Clear alignment with one or more Pure Ocean Challenges.
- Feasibility – Well-defined objectives, realistic methods, and achievable goals within the funding timeline.
- Collaboration – Interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships between different stakeholders.
- Dissemination Plan – Strategies for sharing research results and engaging relevant audiences.
Application Guidelines
When applying, make sure to:
- Select the thematic area(s) that best fit your project.
- Clearly demonstrate what makes your approach innovative and impactful.
- Highlight collaborative efforts across sectors.
- Provide a well-structured dissemination plan to ensure wide reach and influence.
- Indicate co-funding sources or contingency plans in case Pure Ocean does not provide full funding.
- Present a realistic and achievable timeline for your project activities.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Pure Ocean online platform.
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded before the deadline.
👉 Read more about the programme
Need Help With Your Proposal?
If you need expert support with proposal drafting, refinement, or review, contact us today to give your application the best possible chance of success.
In summary: The Pure Ocean Challenges Call for Projects 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for researchers, NGOs, and innovators working to protect and restore our oceans. With up to €80,000 in funding available, this call supports projects that are ambitious, collaborative, and impactful.
