Exciting news for fitness and sport stakeholders across Europe! The European Commission's LIFE Programme offers a significant funding opportunity for those looking to drive sustainability initiatives in the sport and physical activity sector. On 28 January, EuropeActive participated in the SHARE 2.0 Capacity-building webinar on Funding for Sustainability in Sport where the European Commission presented the potential of the LIFE Programme for sustainable sport and physical activity projects.
Key Opportunities Under the LIFE Programme
The LIFE Programme, particularly its Circular Economy and Quality of Life sub-programme, offers support for projects that aim to improve sustainability in sport. While sport-related projects have been relatively rare within LIFE, this presents an opportunity for sport organisations to step in and make the most of available funding.
Particularly relevant for the sport and fitness industry are the Standard Action Projects (SAPs), which support initiatives implementing innovative and best practice solutions in the environmental sector, in particular in the area of the circular economy. This includes resource recovery from waste, sustainable water and air management, noise reduction, soil and chemical management, and improved environmental governance.
- Funding Available: In 2024, the budget for this sub-programme was €79 million, with grants typically ranging from €1.2 million to €7 million.
- Co-Financing Rate: Up to 60% of eligible costs can be covered.
- Project Duration: Generally lasts 2-3 years.
- Application Timeline: Calls open in April 2025, with a submission deadline in September. Successful projects are expected to start in September 2026.
What Types of Sport Projects Can Benefit?
SAP funding within the LIFE Programme focuses on projects that support the transition to a circular economy, reduce waste, and promote sustainable production. Examples of previously funded sport-related projects include:
- Waste Management at Sporting Events: Implementation of sustainable practices to minimise environmental impact at football matches.
- Recycling & Upcycling of Equipment: Innovations such as the recycling of ski shoes into new materials.
- Sustainable Procurement & Infrastructure: Development of eco-friendly artificial turf pitches and sustainable procurement strategies for sporting goods.
The programme specifically supports close-to-market (C2M) activities, helping businesses and public authorities develop innovative solutions that promote resource recovery and circularity in sport-related industries.
A great example of such initiatives was shared during the SHARE 2.0 webinar, where Marco Meggiolaro from Tecnica Group and Emily Even from the Municipality of Amsterdam presented their success stories with the 'Recycle Your Boots' and 'LIFE GREEN PITCHES' projects, showcasing practical applications of sustainability in sport.
How can I apply?
Find more details and application guidelines here: LIFE Programme
Fill in the call for expression of interest to join the SHARE 2.0 Communities of practice here: SHARE 2.0.
