Article written by Emanuela Modoran – Externe Relations Expert & EEN Advisor
In the context of the accelerated green and digital transition at the European level, access to funding has become an essential factor for the development of SMEs and the modernization of local communities. Cascade funding instruments provide fast and flexible opportunities for testing and implementing innovative solutions, with simplified procedures and reduced evaluation time.
In this context, MSP, a partner of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), supports SMEs, public authorities, and other interested organizations in identifying suitable funding opportunities and making the most of them effectively.
Through personalized services, MSP, as an EEN partner, offers:
- identification of relevant calls based on the organization’s profile
- clarification of eligibility criteria and funding conditions
- support in identifying and connecting with international partners
- strategic guidance to increase the chances of success in applications
Below is a selection of cascade funding calls currently open, relevant for innovation, sustainability, digitalization, and urban development:
1.PRIMARY – Open Call
Funding for small consortia that pilot circular bioeconomy solutions, transforming agricultural residues into bio-based products, energy, or materials, under real rural conditions.
💰 Funding: up to €150,000
🎯 Field: circular bioeconomy solutions
👥 Eligible: SMEs, start-ups, cooperatives, research organizations, public authorities, NGOs (in consortia of 2–3 partners)
📅 Deadline: June 8, 2026
🔗 https://www.primary-project.eu/open-call/
2.GATE 5.0 – Open Call
Invites SMEs to develop and validate Agriculture 5.0 solutions through collaboration between agri-food companies and digital technology providers.
💰 Funding: up to €118,500 per project
🎯 Field: agri-food sector
👥 Eligible: SMEs in the agri-food and technology sectors
📅 Deadline: April 30, 2026
🔗 https://en.inovcluster.pt/projects/projects-in-progress/gate-5-0/
3.COP-PILOT – 1st Open Call
Funds projects aimed at scaling Cloud-Edge-IoT solutions in sectors such as energy and agriculture, supporting digital innovation and connectivity.
💰 Funding: up to €200,000 per project
🎯 Field: energy and agriculture
👥 Eligible: SMEs, start-ups, universities, research organizations, NGOs, public authorities (individually or in consortia)
📅 Deadline: May 4, 2026
🔗 https://cop-pilot.eu/open-calls/
4.URBACT – Call for Cities and Stakeholders
Supports cities and public stakeholders in developing sustainable urban solutions through transnational cooperation, exchange of best practices, and the development of Integrated Action Plans aligned with EU priorities.
💰 Funding: program support (no direct grant; participation funded within networks)
🎯 Field: sustainable urban solutions
👥 Eligible: cities, municipalities, public authorities, relevant urban organizations (with involvement of NGOs and other local actors)
📅 Deadline: ongoing (depending on launched calls)
🔗 https://urbact.eu/get-involved
5.NEB Boost for Small Municipalities
Funding for small municipalities to implement community-developed projects focused on the built environment, in line with New European Bauhaus principles.
💰 Funding: small grants (NEB scheme – varies depending on the project)
🎯 Field: small municipalities and local public authorities
👥 Eligible: (not specified)
📅 Deadline: March 29, 2026 (extended)
🔗 https://lnkd.in/gqsd2HAy
Why apply through cascade funding mechanisms?
✔ Simplified procedures compared to traditional Horizon Europe calls
✔ Fast evaluation and accelerated contracting
✔ Non-repayable grants
✔ Increased technology readiness level (TRL)
✔ Strategic positioning for large-scale European projects
👉 If you are interested in any of these calls, the MSP team – Enterprise Europe Network partner – offers free support to help you identify the right opportunity and increase your chances of success.
Our consultants can assist you with tailored information, guidance throughout the application process, and international matchmaking services, helping you maximize the opportunities offered by European funding.
#EENcanhelp #accesstofinance #cascadefunding
