At the Net4LIFE Twinning in Tallinn 10-11 June 2025, the Estonian LIFE NCPs at the Estonian Ministry of Climate gave a useful presentation on LIFE Do’s and Don’ts for the proposal process. Below is a short overview of the useful points imperative to structure a well-grounded project.
DO’s
- Read the guidelines – they are the key to success.
- Before starting – make sure you understand the terms and conditions.
- Define the real problem – what it is and how to solve it.
- Be visual – clarity matters for assessors with time constraints for each application.
- Be clear on partners’ responsibilities, timeline, sector policy influence and societal impact.
- Be coherent – project objectives and activities must align.
- Be clear on activities – what, why, where, how and when.
- Define possible risks.
- Know the funding rules – budget and activities cost must align, and cost effectiveness stated.
- Link to EU policy and show transferability –utilize concrete project results to showcase convincing impact, sustainability and replicability plans.
- Make a strong team – public authorities and or universities make strong leads.
- Involve experts in the drafting process.
- Use native English speakers to proof-read applications to avoid language issues.
- Use peers to review the proposal.
DON’Ts
- Don’t leave out legal and administrative procedures for implementation.
- Don’t leave out a communication strategy.
- Don’t leave out technical solutions, details are crucial.
- Don’t be unrealistic about project duration.
- Don’t focus on high R&D – LIFE is an implementation program.
- Don’t be impatient – re-submission is possible, and adjustments are allowed if goals remain.
