Contact Point for the Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values Programme (CERV)
The Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values (CERV) Programme is a key funding initiative of the European Union designed to safeguard and promote the rights, equality, and democratic values enshrined in the EU treaties. This program provides financial support to civil society organizations, local authorities, and public institutions to enhance citizen engagement, fight discrimination, and reinforce shared democratic values.
The CERV Programme is carried out in Estonia by SA Kodanikuühiskonna Sihtkapital (NFCS), which serves as the official Estonian Contact Point, offering information, consultation, and guidance to organizations participating in CERV funding opportunities.
Official info and helpful information about CERV programme look here and contact info of the CERV National Contact Points (NCP) in other EU countries look here.
Eligibility for CERV Funding
CERV grants are open to organizations across all EU member states, including:
- Civil society organizations at both national and grassroots levels.
- Public institutions and local governments.
- International partnerships or consortiums working across member states.
Estonian organizations can apply for CERV funding directly through the EU Funding and Tenders Portal: EU Funding Portal
To participate, organizations must obtain a PIC code (Participant Identification Code). For guidance on obtaining a PIC code look here
Funding and Financial Support
The CERV Programme provides significant financial resources, co-funding up to 90% of eligible project costs. With a total budget of €1.55 billion for the 2021–2027 period, the programme supports both national projects vital for internal development and international collaborations to address cross-border issues.
Upcoming Application Rounds
For more details on upcoming calls, please visit the EU portal Funding and Tenders section “Funding”
Benefits of Partnering with CERV
The CERV Programme empowers organizations to:
- Develop innovative solutions to combat societal challenges such as discrimination, extremism, and exclusion.
- Build local capacities to promote active citizenship and civic awareness.
- Foster collaboration across borders to address shared issues.
- Strengthen democratic structures and trust-building mechanisms.
Additionally, CERV provides an opportunity for Estonian organizations to connect with European networks to share expertise, scale their impact, and contribute to the EU’s broader societal goals.
How NFCS Supports Estonian Organizations
As the Estonian CERV Contact Point, NFCS provides:
- Consultation for designing high-quality project proposals aligned with CERV objectives.
- Webinars and information sessions to share best practices and increase funding success rates.
- Personalized support for navigating the Funding and Tenders Portal and obtaining the PIC code.
- Networking opportunities with other applicants and potential international partners.
Contact the Estonian Contact Point
For personalized guidance or questions about the CERV Programme in Estonia, contact our dedicated experts:
- Marju Mäger
Project Manager, Expert
CERV Programme Contact in Estonia
Email: Marju.Mager@kysk.ee
Phone: +372 5199 3282 - Katre Tamm
Project Manager, Expert
Expert on civic engagement and cross-border projects
Email: Katre.Tamm@kysk.ee
Phone: +372 5190 9194
By participating in the CERV Programme, you join a Europe-wide effort to bolster equality, foster active participation, and uphold the democratic principles that unite us all. Whether you’re a small NGO or a public organization, the programme offers opportunities to turn ideas into concrete impact and build a stronger, more inclusive society for everyone.