Horizon Cluster 3 (Civil Security for Society)
Award: €1m – €6m
Programme: European Union
Closing date: 12th November 2025
Overview
Cluster 3 is designed to strengthen Europe's internal security by funding research and innovation that addresses evolving threats such as cyber threats, hybrid attacks, terrorism, climate-related disasters, border challenges, and critical infrastructure disruptions. It supports technology-driven and policy-focused projects that enhance societal resilience and safeguard democratic value.
Eligibility
To apply for funding under Cluster 3 applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Eligible applicants include single entities or consortia from a wide range of sectors:
- Research organisations and universities.
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Start-ups and spin-offs.
- Large companies and industry partners.
- Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers.
- Public authorities, regional and national health agencies.
- International organisations and NGOs.
Geographic Eligibility
Applicants must be established in:
- EU Member States.
- Horizon Europe Associated Countries (e.g. UK, Norway, Israel, Turkey, Ukraine, etc.).
- Selected international partners, where explicitly permitted in the call text.
Consortium Requirements (for most calls)
- At least three independent legal entities from three different eligible countries, unless the topic explicitly allows single applicants.
- Strong added value from collaboration, including interdisciplinary expertise and pan-European cooperation.
Call-Specific Requirements
- Certain topics may demand participation from specific end-users such as police forces, first responders, customs or border authorities, local or regional public authorities.
Fundable Projects
- Fighting Crime and Terrorism (FCT): Tools and methods to prevent, detect, and respond to crime, terrorism, and radicalisation.
- Border Management (BM): Smart, secure, and efficient systems for managing EU external borders and migration.
- Resilient Infrastructure (INFRA): Protection and resilience of critical infrastructure against physical and cyber threats.
- Cybersecurity (CS): Advanced cyber defence and threat response solutions for public and private digital systems.
- Disaster-Resilient Societies (DRS): Technologies and strategies for disaster preparedness, response, and climate resilience.
- Security Research & Innovation (SSRI): Improving uptake, governance, and standardisation of security R&I outcomes.
Award & Project Duration
- Award: €1m – €6m (70-100% funded).
- Project Duration: Up to 36 months.
Key Dates
- Closes: 12th November 2025.
