Erasmus+ is best known for supporting education and youth exchanges, but it also offers exciting opportunities in sport. These opportunities aim to promote participation in physical activity, strengthen grassroots organisations, and use sport as a tool for positive social change. For football academies and community clubs, Erasmus+ can open doors to new projects, partnerships, and experiences for both players and coaches.
The Erasmus+ sport actions are designed to tackle both societal and sport-related challenges. They encourage fair play, inclusion, volunteering, healthy lifestyles, and cooperation across borders. Organisations can access support through four types of calls, each designed to meet different needs and levels of experience.
Cooperation Partnerships allow organisations to work together on joint activities. These projects can focus on promoting sport and physical activity, protecting the integrity of sport against issues like doping or match-fixing, supporting athletes in balancing sport and education, improving governance, and fostering tolerance and social inclusion.
Small-Scale Partnerships are ideal for grassroots academies and newcomers to Erasmus+. With simpler administration, smaller grants, and shorter project durations, these partnerships make it easier for local clubs and smaller organisations to take their first step into international collaboration.
Not-for-profit European Sport Events aim to encourage widespread participation in sport and physical activity. These projects also highlight values such as social inclusion, volunteering, and the fight against discrimination. For a grassroots football academy, this could mean hosting or joining a community event that celebrates the joy of sport and brings people together.
Finally, Capacity Building in the field of sport supports international cooperation between organisations from EU Member States, associated countries, and the Western Balkans. These projects use sport as a vehicle for education, personal development, and building stronger, more cohesive communities. They are especially relevant for larger-scale initiatives that go beyond Europe, fostering collaboration with third countries while promoting values and opportunities through sport.
For grassroots football, Erasmus+ offers more than funding — it provides a chance to be part of a wider movement. Whether through partnerships, local events, or international cooperation, academies and organisations can use these opportunities to inspire children, support coaches, and build lasting networks. Sport is not only about what happens on the pitch; with Erasmus+, it becomes a bridge that connects people, ideas, and communities across borders.