LIFE Programme

Updated on 16 July 2026

The LIFE Programme is the European Union's funding programme for the environment, climate action and the clean energy transition. With a budget of €5.43 billion for the 2021–2027 programming period, LIFE supports projects that contribute to implementing the European Green Deal and achieving the EU's environmental, climate and biodiversity objectives.

The programme funds projects that protect biodiversity, restore ecosystems, promote the circular economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate Europe's transition to a climate-neutral and resource-efficient economy.

Programme at a glance

Part of: European Union Multiannual Financial Framework (2021–2027)
Duration: 2021–2027
Budget: €5.43 billion
Funding authority: European Union / European Commission
Target groups: Companies, SMEs, universities, research organisations, public authorities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other eligible legal entities
Funding priorities: Nature and biodiversity, circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and the clean energy transition

What does the LIFE Programme fund?

The LIFE Programme consists of four sub-programmes:

Nature and Biodiversity

Supports projects that protect and restore habitats and species, strengthen biodiversity and contribute to implementing the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.

Circular Economy and Quality of Life

Funds projects that improve resource efficiency, promote the circular economy and enhance air, soil and water quality.

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

Supports projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase climate resilience and contribute to achieving the European Union's climate objectives.

Clean Energy Transition

Supports projects that improve energy efficiency, accelerate the uptake of renewable energy and strengthen the transition to a clean and sustainable energy system.

Who can apply?

The LIFE Programme is open to a broad range of organisations, including:

• companies
• small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• universities
• research organisations
• public authorities
• non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
• other public and private legal entities established in eligible countries

Natural persons are not eligible to apply.

Eligibility criteria and funding conditions vary depending on the individual call for proposals.

Funding instruments

The LIFE Programme offers different funding instruments tailored to various project types.

These include:

• Standard Action Projects (SAPs) for pilot, demonstration, best practice and innovation projects
• Strategic Nature Projects (SNAPs) supporting the implementation of EU nature and biodiversity legislation
• Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) implementing environmental, climate or energy strategies at regional, national or transnational level
• Technical Assistance Projects (TA) supporting the preparation of strategic projects and capacity building
• Other Actions, including coordination and support actions as well as operating grants for selected environmental NGOs

Funding rates, project duration and eligibility conditions depend on the respective funding instrument and annual call.

Objectives of the LIFE Programme

The LIFE Programme pursues four key objectives:

• protecting biodiversity and restoring ecosystems
• supporting the transition to a circular and resource-efficient economy
• combating climate change and strengthening climate resilience
• accelerating Europe's clean energy transition

By supporting innovative environmental and climate solutions, LIFE contributes to the implementation of the European Green Deal and Europe's long-term sustainability goals.

BayFOR support

BayFOR advises companies, universities, research organisations, public authorities and other organisations interested in applying for LIFE funding.

Our advisory services include:

• identifying suitable LIFE calls
• assessing your project's funding potential
• support in building international project consortia
• guidance throughout proposal preparation and submission