The European Commission, through the Digital Europe Programme and managed by the HaDEA (European Health and Digital Executive Agency), has launched a funding opportunity aimed at strengthening and completing the Network of National Safer Internet Centres (SICs) across the European Union.
These centres act as a “one-stop shop” in each country, providing information on online safety, educational resources, public awareness campaigns, and guidance and reporting services through helplines and hotlines aimed at children, families, teachers and other professionals working with young people.
The ultimate objective of the call is to ensure that all EU Member States have an operational SIC with sufficient coverage, thereby closing the geographical gaps that still exist within the European network.
Specific programme objectives
- Protect and empower children in the digital environment, one of the EU's strategic priorities.
- Expand the geographical coverage of the network in countries where there is not yet a funded centre.
- Strengthen advisory, training and reporting services aimed at children, families and educators.
- Promote digital literacy and resilience against online risks, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, grooming and disinformation.
Who can apply?
This call is specifically aimed at National SICs that did not receive funding in the previous 2025 cycle, with the aim of ensuring that the network covers the entire EU territory. Due to the nature of the programme, typical beneficiaries include:
- Public bodies designated as the national contact point for online child safety.
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and non-profit organisations specialising in child protection.
- Consortia bringing together helplines, reporting hotlines and awareness-raising programmes.
Why is this funding opportunity relevant?
The protection of children in the digital environment is one of the European Union's stated priorities, and this call strengthens an existing infrastructure — the SIC network — rather than creating a new programme from scratch. This means that funded projects will become part of an established European network, with shared working standards and direct collaboration with other national centres.
How can we help?
At DIGIS3, we support public and third-sector organisations throughout the European funding application process: from eligibility assessment and interpretation of the call requirements to technical proposal writing, consortium building and follow-up through to the final decision.
If your organisation may be eligible for this call or for other similar opportunities under the Digital Europe Programme, contact our team and we can help you prepare a strong application before the 1 October 2026 deadline.