Ports of the future (ZEWT Partnership)

The EU-wide research and innovation partnership “Ports of the Future (ZEWT Partnership)” supports small and medium-sized seaports and inland ports, port authorities, port community systems, as well as relevant stakeholders from industry and science in the development and demonstration of scalable concepts for decentralized, digital, and circular economy structures. The goal is the transformation of these ports into zero-emission-capable, climate-resilient, and biodiversity-friendly megahubs of multimodal transport. With a project duration of up to 36 months, integrated smart energy systems, cybersecurity modules, and nature-based adaptation measures will be developed and demonstrated for the first time in at least six medium-sized and small TEN-T ports. The Innovation Actions finance up to 70% of the total costs (funding amount up to €21 million per project) as a grant for personnel costs, material expenses, travel and subsistence costs, as well as subcontractor services. The minimum participation consists of three independent legal entities from three different EU Member States or Horizon Europe associated countries. Ineligible costs include real estate, retrospective costs, and R&D outside the EU.

Projects are evaluated based on innovation content, sustainability aspects, and relevance to target groups. Early integration of Gender Equality Plans and Open Science principles ensures quality and inclusion. A mandatory Exploitation Plan describes utilization strategies, while communication includes standardized dissemination and outreach activities. Interested consortia must submit their complete applications (Part A & B) including the financial plan, ethics self-assessment, and exploitation plan no later than 14 April 2026 via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. The European Commission reviews admissibility, funding capacity, as well as the criteria of excellence, impact, and implementation quality, with the project start planned from December 2025 onwards.