EU funding in the field of sport is provided by
- the Erasmus+ programme
- pilot projects and preparatory actions (PPPAs)
The European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) manages both initiatives.
Erasmus+ Sport programme
The Erasmus+ programme is the main source of EU funding in the field of sport. Erasmus+ actions in the field of sport promote participation in sport, physical activity, and voluntary activities.
Key Action 1
This action, managed by Erasmus+ National Agencies, contributes to the development of grassroots sport organisations by supporting learning mobility of their staff.
Key Action 2
Erasmus+ Key Action 2 provides yearly funding in the field of sport for
- cooperation partnerships in the field of sport
- small scale partnerships in the field of sport
- not-for-profit European sport events
- capacity building in the field of sport
Pilot projects and preparatory actions
Pilot projects and preparatory actions (PPPAs) are new initiatives that might turn into EU funding programmes.
What is a pilot project?
A pilot project is an experimental initiative designed to test whether an action is feasible and useful. A pilot project can last up to 2 years.
What is a preparatory action?
A preparatory action is often the next step of a successful pilot project on the same topic. It can last up to 3 years. It is designed to prepare new EU policies, programmes, legislation.
Recent examples
In 2024, PPPAs encouraged initiatives on
- Emergency Youth - emergency sport actions for youth - an approach on community integration and mental well-being of children and young people affected by humanitarian crises through sport in Europe aimed at facilitating adaptation and bonding with hosting communities
- Sport for people and planet – an approach on sustainability through sport in Europe aimed at increasing the awareness about sustainability among citizens through the power of sport
In 2025, pilot projects and preparatory actions will continue to encourage initiatives on the topic "Support Sport - Emergency sport actions for youth".