Deadline Date: October 01, 2026
The European Commission is requesting grant applications to expand Safer Internet Centres across the EU to improve online safety, awareness, and support services for children and young users.
The focus areas of this programme include awareness raising on online opportunities and risks for children, provision of helpline services for digital safety and mental health support, establishment of hotlines to combat online child sexual abuse material, youth participation and engagement through panels, addressing online risks such as cyberbullying and harmful content, tackling emerging digital threats including AI-related risks, supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children, strengthening cooperation with law enforcement and digital services authorities, and promoting digital literacy and resilience among minors. The total funding available for this programme is €24,400,000.
This initiative aims to ensure comprehensive geographical coverage of Safer Internet Centres across EU Member States by supporting national centres that provide essential online safety services. Each centre is expected to deliver a coordinated set of services that support children, parents, educators, and professionals in navigating digital environments safely.
The programme focuses on raising awareness about both existing and emerging online risks, including harmful content, cyberbullying, disinformation, and challenges posed by new technologies such as artificial intelligence and immersive digital environments. It also addresses mental and physical health concerns linked to digital use, including exposure to inappropriate content and online behavioural risks.
Safer Internet Centres will provide helpline services offering advice and support to children and adults on issues related to digital technology use, including mental health concerns. In addition, dedicated hotlines will be established to receive and process reports of online child sexual abuse material, working in coordination with law enforcement and relevant stakeholders.
Youth engagement is a central component of the programme, with youth panels enabling children from diverse backgrounds to actively participate, share experiences, and contribute to shaping safer digital environments. Special attention is given to ensuring inclusion of children from vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.
The initiative also supports collaboration with national and EU-level authorities, including contributions to data collection and cooperation under the Digital Services Act framework. Activities are designed to strengthen digital literacy, resilience, and safe online behaviour among young users.
For more information, visit European Commission.
