Persons with disabilities: opportunities for labour inclusion and social protection through the life course

The Horizon Europe call “Persons with disabilities: opportunities for labour inclusion and social protection through the life course” supports research and innovation projects aimed at preparing evidence-based data, developing scalable, person-centered interventions, and exploring innovative policy approaches for the labour market integration and social protection of persons with disabilities throughout their life course. Barriers such as lack of accessibility, administrative hurdles, and incompatibility with social benefits are to be systematically examined. The call targets consortia of legal entities from EU Member States and associated countries, including companies, non-profit and public institutions, educational establishments, as well as private individuals. At least three independent partners from three countries must cooperate. Funding covers personnel costs, equipment costs, travel, and subcontractor expenses with a 100% funding rate, up to EUR 4 million per project and a duration of 36 months. Submissions are possible until 23 September 2027.

Evaluation criteria include the degree of innovation, potential for labour market integration, scientific quality, and exploitation of results. Projects that achieve a sustainable reduction of the employment gap, facilitate inclusive transitions into retirement, and develop strategies against the “benefit trap” will be funded. Stakeholders, caregivers, and policymakers will benefit from the findings, as will persons with disabilities of working age. Expected benefits include cross-sectoral recommendations for action, barrier-free work environments, and modern assistive technologies. The unified submission is conducted in a single-stage procedure via the European Commission’s Funding & Tenders Portal.