CERVCERV Programme Guide: EU Grants for Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values
The Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme supports civil society organisations, local authorities and networks that protect and promote EU rights and values. Its 2021–2027 budget is around €1.55 billion.
Budget
€75k – €1M
Co-financing
80% – 90%
Who
Civil society NGOs, municipalities, equality advocates
The four strands
Union values (protecting democracy and the rule of law); Equality, rights and gender equality (fighting discrimination, racism and promoting the rights of the child); Citizens' engagement and participation (town twinning, networks of towns, European remembrance); and Daphne (preventing gender-based violence and violence against children).
Who can apply?
Non-profit organisations, public authorities, universities and networks established in EU Member States or associated countries. Town twinning projects are designed specifically for municipalities and their twinning committees.
Budgets and co-financing
Grants generally range from about €75,000 to €1 million, with co-financing typically at 80% to 90%. Town twinning uses lump sums based on the number of participants. CERV also funds operating grants for European networks.
Writing a strong CERV proposal
Base your project on evidence of the rights challenge you address, involve the target group in design, set clear indicators and show how results will influence policy or practice beyond the project lifetime.
Frequently asked questions
Can a small NGO apply to CERV?
Yes. Many CERV calls welcome small and grassroots organisations, often as partners in a consortium.
Let's prepare your application together
Our Brussels team will assess your eligibility for free.