The EU4Health programme provides funding for specific actions that are defined in an annual work programme. Funding is awarded according to the priorities, topics and objectives set out by the European Commission.
It is important to understand the different types of funding and which ones are open for applications. For most organisations, the relevant EU4Health opportunities are action grants and tenders. Other funding types exist but are generally reserved for specific organisations or authorities and are not open to applications.
Action grants (open calls for proposals)
Action grants are the main funding opportunity available to organisations. These are open calls where applicants submit proposals to develop and implement projects on a predefined topic, described in the annual work programme.
Projects typically involve partnerships across several countries and focus on implementing EU health priorities. When the calls for proposals are published, they will specify the scope, expected outcomes, eligible activities and application deadlines.
EU4Health grants do not cover the full cost of a project. Co‑funding is required. In most cases, the EU contribution covers up to 60% of eligible costs. For projects considered to have exceptional usefulness or high added value, funding can increase to up to 80%. Applicants must therefore secure the remaining budget from their own resources or other funding sources.
Tenders and procurements
Procurement contracts (tenders) are used when the European Commission needs to purchase specific services, rather than fund project ideas.
The scope of the work is defined in advance, for example conducting studies, providing technical assistance or supporting policy implementation. Organisations submit bids explaining how they will deliver the requested service.
Tenders can be good funding opportunities for organisations with technical expertise or consulting experience.
Operating grants
Operating grants provide financial support to organisations rather than individual projects, typically covering part of the running costs of European‑level non‑profit organisations such as networks or civil society bodies active in EU health policy.
They are competitive, as they are usually awarded through calls for proposals. However, these calls are often restricted to a clearly defined group of eligible organisations. This means that competition takes place within a smaller pool of applicants that meet specific requirements.
Like action grants, operating grants require co‑funding, as the EU contribution only covers a percentage of the total budget.
Direct grants and joint actions (not open to applications)
Some EU4Health funding is awarded without an open call. This includes direct grants and joint actions.
Direct grants are given to specific organisations with a unique role or mandate, such as EU agencies, international organisations or established networks. Joint actions are collaborative projects involving national authorities, and are also awarded as direct grants.
Because these funding types are reserved for designated organisations, they are not open for general application.
Other targeted grants (single beneficiaries)
In some cases, a grant is included in the work programme but intended for a clearly identified recipient with specific expertise. Although these appear similar to action grants, they are effectively closed and not open to competition.
Where to find more information
HaDEA’s website has information on available funding and how to apply. HaDEA is the European Commission’s Health and Digital Executive Agency. HaDEA implements the EU4Health programme by managing calls for proposals and tenders.
If you need help with understanding your organisation’s eligiblity for EU4Health funding, contact the EU4Health National Focal Point (NFP) in your country. You will find their contact details on this page.