Advancements in Direct Air Capture

The funding call “Advancements in Direct Air Capture” within the framework of Horizon Europe supports the demonstration and market preparation of climate-relevant technologies that remove CO₂ directly from the atmosphere. The goal is to advance Direct Air Capture (DAC) to at least TRL 7 level, significantly improve cost and energy efficiency, and make materials and processes scalable and durable. A comprehensive life cycle analysis ensures the ecological assessment of the entire value chain, from material extraction to end-of-life phase. Funding is provided to small and medium-sized enterprises, educational institutions, non-profit and public organizations based in EU Member States and Horizon Europe Associated Countries, collaborating in consortia of at least three independent partners from three countries. The funding amount is up to €8 million, with a funding rate of 70% for innovation projects. Eligible expenses include personnel, material costs, subcontractor services, and travel expenses, while real estate and retrospective costs are excluded. Selection is based on the degree of innovation, efficiency, scaling potential, and contribution to climate protection.

Applications are submitted through a single-stage procedure via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Required application documents include: project description, financing plan, CVs of project leaders, and the Legal Entity Validation document. All documents must comply with the specified page and format requirements. The call opens on 03/12/2026, and the submission window closes on 31/03/2027 at 17:00 Brussels time. Innovation projects with high commercialization potential, featuring flexible operation modes with renewable energy and promoting international cooperation, are especially welcomed. The European Commission thus aims to accelerate the market readiness of Direct Air Capture to make decisive contributions to climate protection and achieving climate neutrality.