LIFE stands for supporting innovative and groundbreaking projects in the fields of environment and climate. For 2025, a new call is once again scheduled, expected in April 2025. Based on our recent successful experiences, early preparation for LIFE 2025 is crucial to increase your chances of a successful grant application.

Make an impact with LIFE: the European programme for a greener future

LIFE is the only European funding programme that focuses entirely on the environment and climate. This programme supports innovative projects that truly make a difference—whether it involves groundbreaking technologies or smart concepts with clear European added value. LIFE not only helps with the development and implementation of EU policies but also strongly emphasises monitoring and knowledge sharing. During the 2021-2027 period, the focus is on three key themes:

• The transition to a clean, circular, and energy-efficient economy that is less reliant on fossil fuels.
• Improving and protecting our living environment.
• Halting and reversing biodiversity loss, with a focus on sustainable development.

EU LIFE 2025: Promising grants for Dutch municipalities

Many Dutch municipalities face the same challenges that LIFE aims to address. This makes LIFE 2025 an interesting funding programme for municipalities looking to invest in sustainable and innovative solutions.

To provide insight into the opportunities, we highlight several relevant themes per sub-programme:

🌍 Circular economy & quality of life
Think about setting up recycling centres, measures against heat stress, decentralised water treatment, self-sufficient neighbourhoods, and nature-inclusive building with space for birds and bats.

🌱 Nature and biodiversity
From projects in Natura 2000 areas to the creation of parks, green corridors, and facilities for protected flora and fauna.

🌦 Climate mitigation and adaptation
Smart solutions for heat, flooding, and water retention, as well as sustainable energy solutions.

⚡ Sustainable energy transition
Including district heating networks, energy cooperatives, and initiatives to combat energy poverty.

The themes partially overlap, which presents an opportunity! Hezelburcht is happy to work with you to determine the most suitable theme for your project.

Successful municipal projects with EU LIFE funding

Several Dutch municipalities have already successfully used EU LIFE funding to realise their sustainability ambitions. Below we share some inspiring examples where our specialists contributed, and where municipalities played an active role within the consortium or even acted as lead partner:

• LIFE Urban Roofs – City of Rotterdam
  Rotterdam transformed multiple rooftops into multifunctional spaces with greenery, water storage, and solar energy, contributing to a climate-resilient city.
• LIFE Urban Adapt – City of Rotterdam
  With this project, Rotterdam is taking measures to adapt the city to climate change, such as greening urban areas and improving water management.
• LIFE Critical – City of Dordrecht
  Dordrecht enhanced climate resilience by involving local citizens in initiatives that increase the community’s resilience.
• LIFE+ Aerfit Apeldoorn – City of Apeldoorn
  Apeldoorn implemented innovative air filtration techniques to improve air quality and thus promote the health of its residents.
• LIFE SUPER LOCAL – City of Kerkrade
  Kerkrade transformed an outdated residential area into a sustainable and self-sufficient neighbourhood, with a focus on water management and energy efficiency.

These projects illustrate the power of collaboration and the impact that EU LIFE funding can have on local sustainability initiatives.

Why choose a LIFE grant?

Are you considering a project that contributes to a more sustainable future? The LIFE programme offers attractive benefits that can strengthen your initiative:

• Attractive grant rates and substantial contributions
  LIFE provides financial support that covers a significant portion of your project costs, enabling you to achieve more with fewer own resources.
• Increase the (international) visibility of your project
  A LIFE grant gives your project a platform within Europe, potentially leading to new collaborations and recognition.
• Flexibility in collaboration
  You can apply as an individual organisation; international collaboration is not mandatory but is possible if desired.
• Simple application process
  Few mandatory annexes are required for the application. For instance, a business case can be developed as part of the project itself.
• Less administrative hassle
  No signatures are required at the time of application, and financial capacity only needs to be demonstrated after the grant is awarded.

These advantages make the LIFE programme particularly attractive for organisations seeking environmentally friendly and innovative solutions.

Our services for your LIFE 2025 grant application

At Hezelburcht, we understand that the grant process can be complex and time-consuming. That’s why we offer comprehensive support to take the burden off your shoulders:

• Writing the application: Our experienced consultants draft a compelling grant application that aligns with your project goals.
• Budget preparation: We assist in accurately and realistically budgeting your project costs, ensuring your application is financially sound.
• Advice on forming a consortium: If necessary, we provide advice on assembling a strong consortium of partners to enhance your project.
• Support during contract negotiations: We guide you through the contract phase to ensure favourable conditions.
• Communication with the grant provider: We maintain contact with the grant provider, keeping you informed of the progress.
• Preparation of reports and amendment requests: Even after the grant is awarded, we are here to support you with reports and any necessary amendments.

Our goal is to make the grant process as smooth as possible for you, allowing you to focus on the execution of your project. Would you like to learn more about how we can support you? Contact us via info@hezelburcht.com or call us on 088 495 20 00. You can also fill in the form below!

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