The InDiCo-Global Launches Third Open Call: €1 Million in Funding to Promote European ICT Standards Globally is now accepting applications from eligible organizations seeking to foster digital standardization in alignment with European Union (EU) frameworks. With a total of €1 million in available funding, this initiative is part of Horizon Europe and aims to expand the global reach of the European Standardisation System (ESS) by supporting capacity-building and ecosystem mapping projects.
This opportunity is ideal for National Standards Organisations (NSOs), ICT experts, and international partners committed to strengthening global cooperation in digital and ICT standards.
What Is the InDiCo-Global Third Open Call?
Led by the European Commission and coordinated by key partners including CEN, CENELEC, ETSI, Trust-IT, Martel Innovate, and COMMpla, the InDiCo-Global Launches Third Open Call: €1 Million in Funding to Promote European ICT Standards Globally supports two targeted funding tracks:
- Training Programmes for NSOs
- ICT Standardisation Landscaping Studies
This is the third call under the InDiCo-Global programme, which forms part of a broader €2.5 million initiative dedicated to enhancing EU-standard collaboration globally.
Funding Streams and Objectives
1. Training Programmes for NSO Staff
- Goal: Strengthen capacities of NSO staff in strategic standardisation and management (non-technical content).
- Eligible applicants: NSOs from Africa, Southeast Asia, India, LAC, Eastern Partnership, Western Balkans, and EU/EFTA countries.
- Funding available:
- Up to €20,000 per training programme
- Maximum of €50,000 per beneficiary
- Deliverables: Editable, replicable training materials with full rights granted to InDiCo-Global.
- Regional balance will be prioritized.
2. ICT Landscaping Studies
- Goal: Map the ICT standardisation and regulatory ecosystems in key global regions.
- Funding levels:
- Up to €30,000 for new studies in Africa and Southeast Asia
- Up to €15,000 for studies in Eastern Partnership, Western Balkans, India, China, and LAC
- Deliverables: Editable, comprehensive ecosystem reports
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcome from:
- Non-EU/EFTA NSOs (priority regions listed above)
- EU/EFTA NSOs aiming to deliver joint training
- Organizations with expertise in ICT policy and standardisation ecosystem mapping
Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to deliver high-quality content aligned with EU standards objectives.
Application Timeline
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Call Opens | June 16, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | Rolling basis until June 2026 (or until funds are depleted) |
| Evaluation Process | Within 30 days of submission |
| Final Pitch / Selection | Ongoing (first-come, first-reviewed) |
Applications will be evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis—early submissions are highly recommended.
Evaluation Criteria
Each proposal is assessed based on the following metrics:
- Alignment with call objectives (30%)
- Technical quality of concept (30%)
- Applicant capacity and experience (20%)
- Budget efficiency and clarity (20%)
Proposals must clearly outline deliverables, budget justifications, and value-added to the European and global ICT standardisation agenda.
Application Process
To apply:
👉 Submit your application for the InDiCo-Global Third Open Call
To learn more about the programme and detailed eligibility requirements:
👉 Read more about the Open Call here
All applications must be submitted through the designated portal and should include:
- Completed proposal form
- Detailed project description and methodology
- Budget breakdown and timeline
- Information on deliverables (training materials or ecosystem report)
🧠 Expert Insight from GrantsDatabase.org
According to Grants Database experts:
“Applicants should focus on clearly demonstrating how their project will build lasting capacity or generate actionable insights for ICT standards harmonization. Use concise, technical language. Provide editable deliverables as requested, and be transparent in budget planning. The strongest applications align both thematically and operationally with EU digital policy.”
Need help preparing your application?
📩 Contact GrantsDatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
Final Thoughts
With €1 million in funding available and a strong push from the EU to internationalize ICT standardisation, the InDiCo-Global Third Open Call represents a significant opportunity to influence digital policy, strengthen cross-border cooperation, and build local capacity in underrepresented regions.
Submit your proposal early to maximize your chances—funding is awarded on a rolling basis.
