Research infrastructure concept development including major upgrades or extensions of existing infrastructures

The call "Research infrastructure concept development including major upgrades or extensions of existing infrastructures" (HORIZON-INFRA-2026-DEV-01-01) supports the creation of comprehensive planning concepts for new research infrastructures of European interest as well as large-scale expansions of existing facilities. The focus is on scientific excellence, alignment with the European Research Area (ERA), and resource efficiency – including the reduction of environmental and climate impacts. Funded activities include interdisciplinary feasibility studies, technological and conceptual evaluations, governance and financial planning concepts, strategies for user access and FAIR data management, as well as synergies with existing stakeholders. Applicant consortia consisting of at least three independent legal entities from three different EU or associated countries can receive grants ranging from €2–3 million per project. The project duration is up to 36 months, with a funding rate of 100%. Eligible costs include personnel, material, and travel expenses as well as subcontracting services. Eligible applicants are companies, universities, research institutions, public and non-profit organizations.

The application must include a detailed project description, a financial plan, the CV of the project leader, and validated legal documents (PIC). Submission is to be made electronically via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal by 16 June 2026. Evaluation criteria are excellence of the concept, impact on the European Research Area, and quality and efficiency of implementation. Consortia are ranked after meeting threshold values for each criterion and prioritized within the budget. The funded projects are intended to serve as a basis for the institutional securing and commissioning of new research infrastructures or transformative upgrades at the EU level.