For the first time, the maritime sector has a dedicated call within the European Innovation Fund. The Innovation Fund Maritime call supports innovative, first-of-a-kind technologies that reduce emissions from shipping and ports in a structural and measurable way. Think of fleet modernisation, clean propulsion and innovative port infrastructure. The call ties in with the EU Industrial Maritime Strategy of March 2026 and is expected to open in December 2026, with a deadline in April 2027.

IF26 Maritime call

The IF26 Maritime call is the first round of this new call. It is expected to open in December 2026 and close in April 2027. The European Commission will announce the exact dates when the call opens. The budget for this new call has not yet been announced.

Who is the Innovation Fund Maritime call for?

The Maritime call is intended for organisations that want to decarbonise shipping or ports with innovative technology. It is aimed at projects that have moved beyond research: technology that is actually built and used on a ship or in a port.

Who can apply?

• Shipping companies and shipowners, shipyards, port companies and maritime technology suppliers.
• You can apply on your own or as part of a consortium, for example a shipowner together with a shipyard and a technology supplier.
• Maritime projects from SMEs also belong in this call, not in the SME call.
• The project must take place in the EU, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. Additional requirements are expected for ships regarding registration and calls at European ports.

Which projects are eligible?

• Advanced on-board energy efficiency measures
• Sustainable alternative fuels
• Electrification of ships
• Zero-emission propulsion technology, such as wind-assisted propulsion
• Innovative port infrastructure

Example projects:

• A cargo ship fitted with rotor sails or other wind-assisted propulsion
• The construction of a new ship that runs on methanol, ammonia or hydrogen, with the associated engine and fuel systems
• A fully electric ferry with fast-charging infrastructure in the port
• A port that builds innovative bunkering infrastructure for alternative fuels

How are applications assessed?

As in the Net-Zero Technologies call, applications are assessed on five criteria: degree of innovation, avoided greenhouse gas emissions, project maturity, replicability and cost efficiency.

Support with your Innovation Fund Maritime application

Are you working on a cleaner ship or a more sustainable port? We assess whether your project fits this new call, substantiate its innovation and emission reductions, and bring shipowners, shipyards, ports and suppliers together in a strong consortium. Call 088 495 20 00, send an email to info@hezelburcht.com or fill in the contact form below to schedule a meeting.