Call for proposals: Ports of the Future – ZEWT Partnership | Deadline 14 April 2026

The European Union has announced a new Horizon Europe Innovation Action aimed at accelerating the green and digital transformation of small and medium‑sized maritime and inland ports across the continent. The call, titled HORIZON‑CL5‑2026‑05‑D5‑11, supports large‑scale demonstrations that will help ports become cleaner, smarter, more resilient, and better integrated into Europe’s transport and energy systems.

As part of the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport (ZEWT) Partnership, the initiative seeks to strengthen the role of ports as critical gateways for trade, energy, and mobility—while reducing environmental impacts and improving the quality of life for surrounding communities.

Driving Sustainability and Competitiveness

Funded projects are expected to deliver replicable strategies that enable ports to cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce air and water pollution, and adopt biodiversity‑friendly practices. The call also emphasises climate resilience, encouraging solutions that help ports adapt to sea‑level rise, extreme weather, and other climate‑related risks.

Digitalisation is another core pillar. Proposals must advance smart port systems, including improved traffic management, automated processes, emissions monitoring, and robust cybersecurity aligned with EU standards.

Energy Hubs of the Future

The EU is calling for integrated energy systems that support port operations—from renewable energy production and storage to on‑shore power supply and electrified terminal equipment. These systems will help ports play a central role in Europe’s clean‑energy transition.

Strengthening Skills and Innovation
The initiative also addresses long‑term workforce needs, promoting collaboration between academia, training providers, and industry to equip workers with the skills required for zero‑emission and digital port operations.

Projects must demonstrate solutions in at least six TEN‑T ports, including five maritime ports and one inland port, ensuring broad geographic relevance and scalability.

Funding and Timeline

• Total budget: €21 million
• Expected EU contribution per project: ~€10.5 million
• Call opening: 18 December 2025
• Deadline: 14 April 2026, 17:00 Brussels time

This call represents a significant step toward implementing the forthcoming EU Port Strategy, reinforcing Europe’s commitment to sustainable mobility, energy security, and industrial competitiveness.