EU Award for Gender Equality Champions 2026 (HORIZON-WIDERA-2026-GENDER-Prize)
The EU Award for Gender Equality Champions is a Horizon Europe prize targeting academic and research organizations that have achieved significant results through the implementation of their Gender Equality Plans (GEPs).
⚠️ Please note: This is a recognition prize for past achievements and institutional changes, not a funding scheme to start new activities.
The award aims to advance gender equality and inclusion within the European Research Area (ERA) by showcasing organizations that demonstrate measurable progress, long-term commitment, and the potential to serve as models for others.
Categories & Specific Calls
The total budget of €400,000 is divided into four prizes of €100,000 each across three distinct categories:
1. Sustainable Gender Equality Champions
- Ref:
HORIZON-WIDERA-2026-GENDER-Prize-01 - Focus: For organizations with a proven track record and long-term, sustained results.
- Prize: 1 award of €100,000
- Official Link: [Click here]
2. Newcomer Gender Equality Champions
- Ref:
HORIZON-WIDERA-2026-GENDER-Prize-02 - Focus: For organizations that have recently completed their first GEP and can show concrete progress.
- Prize: 2 awards of €100,000 each
- Official Link: [Click here]
3. Inclusive Gender Equality Champions
- Ref:
HORIZON-WIDERA-2026-GENDER-Prize-03 - Focus: For organizations with innovative and inclusive GEPs that intersect gender with at least two other social categories.
- Prize: 1 award of €100,000
- Official Link:
Eligibility Criteria
- Who can apply: Single public or private organizations, including research entities and higher education institutions.
- Exclusions: Joint applications (consortia) are not eligible.
- Geographical Scope: Applicants must be established in EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries, or EU candidate countries.