Spring 2025 Call for Young Ocean Advocates: EU4Ocean Grants for Youth Projects on Seas & Rivers
DR. RABIU RABIU 
Spring 2025 Call for Young Ocean Advocates: EU4Ocean Grants for Youth-Led Projects
Are you a young changemaker passionate about protecting oceans, rivers, and local blue ecosystems? The EU4Ocean Coalition, an initiative of the European Commission, is inviting applications for the Spring 2025 Call for Young Ocean Advocates. This is a unique opportunity for youth across Europe to lead local action in support of ocean literacy and sustainable water stewardship.
The call is open until 25 April 2025, so if you have an idea to connect your community to the ocean through education, innovation, or civic engagement, now is your chance to apply.
What Is the EU4Ocean Coalition?
The EU4Ocean Coalition is a growing community of individuals, organizations, and institutions committed to promoting ocean literacy across Europe. It includes youth, educators, researchers, artists, and policy actors working together to raise awareness and drive positive change for marine environments.
This initiative is funded by the European Union and focuses on empowering communities to understand and act on the interconnected challenges facing our seas and inland waters.
About the Young Ocean Advocates Call
The Young Ocean Advocates program supports youth-led, community-based projects that connect citizens with their local marine or freshwater ecosystems. This spring’s theme is:
“Youth for Blue Cities: Strengthening Local Action for Seas & Rivers through Ocean Literacy.”
Applicants are encouraged to design projects that promote:
• Blue citizenship
• Local democratic engagement
• Sustainable water practices
• Educational outreach and public awareness
• Creative and civic storytelling around marine protection
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this opportunity, you must:
• Be between 16 and 30 years old
• Be a citizen or resident of an EU member state
• Have a project idea or ongoing initiative that aligns with the 2025 theme
• Be willing to engage your local community or network in the activities
Projects can involve art, technology, education, journalism, public campaigns, or hands-on conservation work—so long as they promote a better understanding of and stronger connection to marine and river environments.
You can apply individually or as a team, including youth collectives, student groups, or informal networks.
What Do Selected Advocates Receive?
Selected Young Ocean Advocates will benefit from a package of support that includes:
• Grant funding to implement their project
• Recognition and visibility across EU4Ocean platforms
• Mentoring and capacity-building sessions with professionals in marine conservation and youth engagement
• Opportunities to present their work in regional and international ocean forums
The support is designed not only to help young leaders carry out their projects but also to build their long-term potential as ocean advocates and community leaders.
Application Process
• Deadline: 25 April 2025
• Where to Apply: Click here to access the application form and guidelines
• Eligibility: EU citizens and residents aged 16–30
Be sure to submit a clear proposal that outlines your project’s goals, expected impact, audience, timeline, and budget. Creativity and community engagement will be key selection criteria.
Why Should You Apply?
Europe’s waters are facing increasing challenges—from pollution and biodiversity loss to climate impacts and overuse. Yet, young people across the continent are stepping up with solutions that educate, empower, and inspire.
If you have a vision for a healthier ocean or river near you, this is your opportunity to turn that vision into reality with institutional support and visibility.
By becoming a Young Ocean Advocate, you’re not only implementing a project—you’re joining a movement of youth taking the lead for a sustainable blue future.
For more opportunities, visit Opportunities for Youth website
Conclusion
Ready to take action for Europe’s rivers and seas? Submit your proposal to the Young Ocean Advocates Spring 2025 Call by 25 April 2025 and be part of an exciting, youth-led movement for marine literacy and climate resilience.
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