Open Call for Grants
23 September 2026
//// Open Call for Grants
We open a standing call for STSM, VM, dissemination, ITC and YRI conference grants.
//// Evaluation of STSM and conference grant applications
Shortly after the submission deadline, the Grant Awarding Coordinator prepares and distributes a summary of the applications to the Grant Awarding Committee.
In case of a direct professional or personal connection between the submitter and a member of the Grant Awarding Committee, the implied member shall not participate in the evaluation of the application in question.
A decision the Grant Awarding Committee is made at the latest 2 weeks after the submission deadline in order to compare the applications, to approve, reject or adjust them.
The criteria considered by the Grant Awarding Committee are:
- Scientific quality and relevance to EPIGRAPHY
- Geographical inclusiveness (the ITC classification is according to the home institute of the candidate)
- Gender balance and juniority (people <40 years of age are prioritised for STSM, ITC and Dissemination conference grants). Note that, as per COST regulations, YRI conference grants are only awarded to young researchers (<40 years old). ITC conference grants are only awarded to ITC-based researchers.
- Effectiveness of the grant (e.g. duration vs cost, added value of the networking, etc).
- Conference grants are intended to provide financial support and not necessarily cover all costs associated with the conference, therefore the requested amount may be limited by the evaluation committee.
In order to optimize the use of the available budget, the Grant Awarding Committee may apply a reduction of the total amount granted to an individual application. The motivation of the reduction shall be presented to the applicant in due time. If needed, a new application with the agreed budget may be submitted in e-COST again, for the same grant period.
//// How to apply for STSM and conference grants?
- All members of the Action are eligible to apply.
- Applicants must submit their applications for STSM or Conference grants (Dissemination, ITC and YRI) online before the deadline through the COST application form: https://e-services.cost.eu/activity/grants/add
- The following documents should be provided:
- Application form: templates can be downloaded for
Dissemination conference grants
- Simplified budget: A breakdown of the travel and daily allowance (including housing) costs should be provided in the application. This should align with COST policies regarding Daily Allowances and Long-Distance Travel.
- Letter of invitation:
- STSM: from the host (physical person or institute); you should get in touch with the host well before the grant application deadline! The host contact should also, if not already, become a member of the Action.
- Conference: invitation or abstract acceptance from organisers.
- For Conference Grants: A copy of the abstract (or full article if available) should be provided as well. Posters are admitted only for YRI Conference Grants and not for Dissemination and ITC Grants.
- CV including selected publications,
- For PhD and master students only: letter of support from their Supervisor.