SOILSCAPE

1) Hi, Is it possible to apply if our group is based in Sweden?

Dear applicant,

Thank you for your question. Yes it is possible to apply as a single applicant or consortium member if you are a legal entity from Sweden. For more information on eligibility please see Section 3.2 Eligibility Criteria in the Applicants Guide.

Kind regards,

The Soilscape Open Call Team

2) I'm an artist developing partnerships with a unversity and other structures in France. Are theses the structures I can postulate with? I don't understand the partnership or hosting of the project, can you please explain me or tell me where to understand

It is possible to apply for any of the categories as a single applicant or as a consortium of up to three partners (total). If you are a 'registered' artist (self employed or equivalent), you could apply yourself as an applicant or as a consortium member. In terms of consortia, as long as each member meets the eligibility criteria requirements in the Applicant's Guide (Section 3.2) there is no specific breakdown of the types of organizations that should be included. 

In terms of building a partnership it is recommended to include partners as those with active roles. For example if you are simply cooperating with a restaurant or gallery to host your activities but they have no additional role, then they would not need to be included in the consortium, it would fall under other direct costs in your budget.

3) I was wondering if Ireland would be eligible to apply for your open call

Yes, Ireland is eligible to apply for the Soilscape open call. For more information see section 3.2.1.2 Definition of Eligible Countries of the Applicant's Guide

4) Could you kindly confirm whether a private educational institution is eligible to apply for the SOILSCAPE FSTP Open Call?

Yes, your type of institution would be eligible as either a single entity or member of a consortium for the Soilscape FSTP

5) In the detailed guidance document, certain partners types are written for each strand. For example, SME is mentioned under only Strand 1. Does this mean that SMEs are not eligible under Strands 2 and 3, or are these recommendations rather than eligibility constraints? Would an SME led application under Strand 2 or 3 be accepted and evaluated based on scoring criteria?

The eligible entities found in Section 3.2.1 Types of Applicants apply to the entire open call program and do include SMEs. The lists provided in the appendices for the strands are only indicative examples and not an exhaustive list.

6) We would also appreciate clarity regarding transnational applications. If we submit a transnational proposal with partners from two different countries (e.g. Türkiye and the UK), should the outcomes be demonstrated across both countries (two different demos from two different countries with different approach in same strand), or is it sufficient to focus on a single demo site, with impacts and learnings reflected at the EU level? In other words, can a transnational consortium (Uk and TR) be formed even if the demo site is only in one country?

For the transnational scale," the focus on shared challenges and opportunities across borders, particularly in Europe. These sub-projects should also align with EU-level priorities and foster collaboration among different countries and regions ". It is not clearly stated that the activities themselves must take place across multiple countries; however, the proposal should demonstrate how the shared challenges are addressed and both the impact and allocation of resources will be evaluated.

7) For national scale applications, does the term imply that expected outcomes should be scalable and impactful at the national level? Similarly, for local scale applications, are applicants expected to demonstrate impact primarily at the local or regional level according to scale?

• " The activities of national scale sub-projects should expand across an entire country, targeting diverse regions, populations, societal groups and soil-related issues specific to the nation.".
• For the local scale, sub-projects are "to be executed within a specific community, municipality, or geographically confined area. The dimension is small but intensely addressed, targeting local populations with tailored activities. There should be potential for replicability (i.e. in other countries or settings) even if the primary focus is on local impact."

8) Regarding the “Orchestra”, is it necessary for the applicant to be based in the corresponding country, or to involve a local partner from that country? Or is it possible to apply independently, regardless of geographical base?

There are two distinct open call categories. The SOILSCAPE FSTP involving the strands discussed above is completely independent of the soil orchestras. The second category is the Soilscape FSTP will fund 3 sub-projects in each of the 8 project's Soil Orchestra countries. In most cases, applicants need to be from the Soil Orchestra country, however it would be best to check the appendices as it may not be the case for all (e.g., videogame for the Italian Soil Orchestra)

9) According to the guidebook, we understand that we can design timeline and budget of our proposal freely, depending on our project’s plan and scale. Could you please confirm if this is correct? (E.g. Transnational level – strand 1 150000€ - 18 months or 12 months. / local level – strand 3 – 50000€ - 6months or 12 months

The budget will be distributed based upon the scale so transnational 150k, national 100k, local 50k. The time frame (6/12/18 months) is independent and also up to the applicant. While it would be typical for local to correspond to 6 months, national 12 months and transnational 18 months given the diverse creative processes we did not want to restrict applicants

10) I would like to know if it is possible to apply both for the French orchestra and also to be an external evaluator?

It is not possible to be an evaluator and applicants under the same call, even though they are different categories. That being said, if you are interested in evaluating other open calls, once you are registered on the platform as an evaluator you enter the pool and could be selected based on your expertise. Doing so will not conflict with your participation in the Soilscape open call as an applicant.

11) I am concerned about UK eligibility - the reasons being that Soilscape was funded in the Horizon programme call 2023 and note 14 below says the UK is not eligible for Horizon grants in the year 2023 or before.

he Soilscape Applicant's Guide does not explicitly restrict UK participation, and the guidance from the EU indicates the following: (Link found here.)

"Can entities established in the UK be involved in Horizon Europe actions as recipients of financial support to third parties (FSTP)?

As a general rule, regardless of the association status of the UK vis-à-vis Horizon Europe, legal entities established in the UK may participate in FSTP calls and be recipient of FSTP provided that the FSTP scheme, and in particular the persons or categories of persons that may receive financial support as third parties, complies notably with the conditions set out in the particular Work Programme of the funding body, the call for proposals, and the Horizon Europe grant agreement, and the FSTP scheme of the beneficiary. This assessment is to be made by the entity providing FSTP taking into account all the particulars of each FSTP case." 

12) Good morning, For the "Soil Orchestra FSTP Finland- Artistic ambassador", I am confused on the sentence in Appendix 10> "The three (3) components should be integrated where possible at each location, or at minimum each should be offered more than once." Will be project I submit be shown in other places other than the Finnish Soil Festival? Thank you kindly, Ellenor

For the Artistic ambassador each sub-project should include a package of the following 3 components:

1. Presentations/Demonstrations: Showcase artistic or creative interpretations of soil related themes.
2. Artist ‘Talk Backs’: Facilitate discussions with audiences to share insights and foster dialogue about their work.
3. Technical Outreach: Offer educational or skill-based activities to connect artistic practices with soil science and broader community understanding

The aim is for this package of activities to be shared in more than one location within the country, and for the festival to be only one of those locations.

"The three (3) components should be integrated where possible at each location, or at minimum each should be offered more than once" This means that it would be preferable for a demo + talk back + technical outreach all to take place anywhere you visit, however if there are logistical or other constraints and it is not possible, it would be ok to do for example a demo and talk back in one location and the technical outreach elsewhere.

13) I want to inquire whether the Czech Republic is an eligible country for Open Call 2025.

Yes the Czech republic is eligible. For a full list of eligible countries see sectio 3.2.1.2 Definition of Eligible Countries of the Applicant's Guide.

14) I am writing to request some informations regarding the SOILSCAPE Open Call, specifically the Soilscape FSTP section: > I saw that universities are invited to participate in the third strand. In the Application Guidelines, personal costs are listed among the budget items that can be allocated. I would like confirmation whether it is possible to allocate part of the budget to contracts or research grants offered by the university partner.

• Universities are invited to apply to all strands of the Soilscape FSTP. The lists provided in the call document are indicative examples of the types of organizations that we would expect to apply but are not exhaustive or restrictive. 
• There would be two options for funding a researcher. The first would be through the personnel costs, or the second would be through subcontracting. The most appropriate option will have to do with the University's internal processes for hiring.

15) legal entities from all countries included in the Horizon Europe Regulation 2021/6951 are eligible to participate. However, I would like confirmation that it is indeed possible to propose a project in one of the partner countries of the Soilscape Project with a foreign legal entity not belonging to these countries. A concrete example would be the possible participation of a Belgian ASBL in a project designed in Italian territories.

• In the case of the Soilscape FSTP there are no restrictions to the consortium member countries (besides adhering to the HE eligibility as described in Section 3.2 of the Applicant's Guide). For the Soil Orchestra FSTP, the eligible countries are dependent on the specific Soil Orchestra, as such it is recommended to read the appendices of the Soil Orchestra if you are interested in applying for that category. (For example the Italian Soil Orchestra, only Italian legal entities can apply with the artistic performance and the workshop lab tools, but the educational video game is open to all HE countries)

16) we are analysing your open call and we want to ask you if it is possible to apply in two proposals, one for the SOILSCAPE and another for the SOIL Orchestras. In one we will be partner, and in the other we will be leader.

Yes it is possible to apply for both a project within the Soilscape FSTP category as well as one within the Soil Orchestra FSTP, however they must be for two distinct ideas. You cannot be selected for the same project in both categories. 

17) what is going to be asked for the balance sheet or review

At the proposal stage the budget template can be found on the soilscape website here. The instructions and breakdown of categories are provided. 

During implementation (for selected projects) there is no additional review of the budget required at the end of each phase. The amount of funding released is set for each phase and does not vary (see Applicant's Guide Section 4. Implementation of the Soilscape Open Call.) it is also dependent on the acceptance of the deliverables listed.

18) Hosting night and per diems in which category of the budget should they go?

Other goods and services, however please refer to the budget template

19) How do we justify the payment of an artist?

If an artist is not an applicant themselves or member of a consortium, artist payment could fall under one of three categories depending on their role. 1. Personnel: if the artist is an employee of the applicant's organization 2. Subcontracting: this would be for a defined task that is outsourced to a specialized artists. 3. Other goods and services: would be for a specific product or service that supports the project but is not a core task.

20) How much deviation is possible between the proposal budget and realized budget. Can we shift money within the categories during the project implementation?

The release of funding during implementation is dependent on the acceptance of a deliverable that demonstrates that the work you have promised is being/has been accomplished, the budget will not be reviewed again. The budget at the proposal stage will be evaluated to ensure that the project is feasible and resource allocation is appropriate.

You may reevaluate and adjust your budget internally, but the release of funding is based on the completion of promised activities and acceptance of the deliverables.

21) In a consortium does it matter which is thefirst partner? For example an SME and University, does the University need to be the first partner?

The order of partners does not matter at all. However only one application is required for each consortium so one partner needs to be responsible for uploading the application, that is the only distinction.

22) Is it accurate to that a project working with any kind of soil is eligible to apply, is that correct? (Not only agricultural)

Yes, absolutely there is no restriction with regards to the soil related aspect of the project as long as any soil related information aligns with current scientific knowledge.

23) I’ve just received the information about the open call and went through the documentation, but I’m still a bit unsure about the eligibility criteria. Specifically, there are eight countries (orchestra 😊) participating in the consortium, and each will be funding subprojects. Does this mean that the subprojects are expected to be limited to those countries in terms of participants, events, and activities?

There are two open call categories.

Category 1: Soilscape FSTP

- Eligible countries: Horizon Europe eligible countries (See 3.2.1.2 Definition of Eligible Countries) 

- Activity location: based upon selected scale of sub-project (local, national, transnational) and the type of activities proposed

Category 2: Soil Orchestra FSTP

- Eligible countries: each of the 8 countries has defined their own rules (See Appendices 5- 12)

- Activity location: in the specified Soil Orchestra country 

The reason for the difference is that the Soil Orchestra FSTP is tied closely to the festival that will take place in those countries or the activities may require language proficiency. 

The general eligibility requirements (e.g., type of applicant, conflicts of interest ect) are the same for both categories and can be found in Section 3.2 Eligibility Criteria. A checklist table is also provided in Section 3.5.1 Eligibility check (Table 4). 

The Applicants Guide can be found here.

24) Each country will hold a festival oriented to specific public? Or some will be more academic oriented, or family oriented, etc

Each of the 8 Soil Orchestra countries will hold a Soilscape festival. Most will target the general public, however the specific target groups of each festival will be determined by the Orchestra conductor/organizers.

25) 1) Could we involve two more partners, right? 2) In case we would need technical support from a subcontractor, does the subcontractor count as a partner or we can still be 3 partners + subcontractor`?

1. You can involve up to three partners. No more than that. 
2. Sub-contractors do not count as partners.

26) I have registered with the open call portal. Is there an application form that we complete and download? I have looked at the applicants guidelines and I see a list of questions but there is no indication of length of answer.

The full open call kit is available on the website . One of those documents is the proposal template which includes the guidelines for length, formatting. The page limit is 15 pages (not including the budget template, cover page, or ToC. For chapter 3: methodology you only include the table provided in the relevant appendix. You can delete the rest. There is no specific length requirement for each question.

The required documents are listed in the applicants guide as well.

27) Is it possible to participate in more than one project, as leader or as well as a partner?

It is possible to apply with a maximum of two proposals but only one from each category. So one in the Soilscape FSTP category and one in the Soil Orchestra FSTP. Please keep in mind that for most of the Soil Orchestra FSTP eligibility is restricted to applicants from the specific country, in those where that is not the case, language proficiency is required. Please check the dedicated appendices of the applicants guide for the specifics of each Soil Orchestra.

It is also worth mentioning that designating a coordinator/leader is not necessary since the calls are also open to individual applicants. In the case of consortia we simply need one partner to upload the application. 

28) We would kindly like to ask whether a consortium of two NGO partners is applicable in local or national projects, or whether this is applicable only in European/transnational projects and so one partner per country is needed.

There are no restrictions on how you form a consortium as long as you are able to address the objectives of the call. The only difference is for the transnational projects, partners should come from at least 2 different countries.

29) Can public institutions such as municipalities or other public bodies (e.g. cultural departments, local authorities) apply as individual applicants under the SOILSCAPE FSTP call? Or does “individual applicant” refer exclusively to natural persons (e.g. individual artists)? We are a municipality based in Türkiye (a Horizon Europe associated country) and would like to clarify whether we can apply alone as a legal entity.

Yes, public institutions can apply as individual applicants.

Individual applicants refers to a single legal entity, under the categories listed in Section 3.2.1 Types of applicants.

30) Could you explain more about how it covers the costs of buying equipment?

Full instructions are provided in the budget template, but in the case of equipment only the depreciation costs are covered.

31) Can Turkey take part in these projects

Yes. For full list of eligible countries see chapter 3.2 of the applicant’s guide

32) Austria as well?

Yes. For full list of eligible countries see chapter 3.2 of the applicant’s guide

33) Do projects have to take place in the countries of the orchestras? Or local in own country?

For the Soil Orchestra FSTP category, yes the projects should take place in the Soil Orchestra country they applied for, particularly as the activities are centered around the festival hosted by that country. 

For the Soilscape FSTP the activities are not restricted to a particular country. For this category it also depends on scale, for transnational projects they should extend beyond one country.

34) what does SME mean?

Small Medium Enterprise

35) Is there a co-financing share for the Soilscape FSTP?

No, there is no co-financing required.

36) Can, for example, Faculty of agriculture and artists cooperate?

Yes, absolutely. Such collaborations are encouraged.

37) Are you going to organise a networking session?

We currently do not offer any matchmaking services.

38) do we have to submit time sheets?

No time sheets will need to be submitted. Only the deliverables.

39) if we form a consortium do we need to have partners that are different from our institution for example an artist if we are not one

How you form your consortium is completely up to you and your idea. There are no formal requirements as long as you meet the objectives of the call.

40) Dear Sirs/Madams, I would like to know if we can submit a project with 2 schools (1 from Portugal and anotehr from Poland) in the strand 3, and if so, if we need to do the same activities in both schools or if we can do different activities to test them (in Poland we have older students - elementary school and in Portugal we have primary school, so some activities can't be done by the young students, only tested afterwards). Who will be responsable for the delivering reports? One of the schools?How much should we apply? For 50 000 euros and share the budget? Thanks for your time and consideration. Best regards, Joana Maciel

• Yes. Two schools could apply for strand 3. In fact, two schools could apply for any category. 
• It is also possible to include two schools and one municipality (since consortia can include up to three entities) 
• Yes. It is also possible to apply for strand 3 (or any strand from the Soilscape FSTP category) with partners from other countries, however the scale of the project will likely influence whether or not you wish to do so. Keep in mind:
  • Local scale projects are really meant to target a small geographical area or region. If the main activities will only take place in one area (within one country) with a small budget allocated to the adaptation and adoption in another country this could be a suitable choice. The total budget is up to 50k
  • Transnational scale projects require partners from different countries and should work on common goals/challenges. If both locations are central to the project, perhaps this would be a more suitable scale. The total budget is up to 150k
• Budget distribution is up to each consortium 
• There are no specific requirements regarding the structure of a consortium. For example, you may assign a coordinator and partner but it is no required. For administrative reasons however we need one partner to submit the application on the open call platform. 

41) We kindly request guidance on where and how to access the full set of these templates in their original formats (Word, Excel, PDF, etc.). If there is a consolidated “Open Call Kit” folder or a specific link to download all the required templates, we would appreciate your support in sharing it.

Thank you for your email and interest in the Soilscape Open Call. All documents can be found on the open calls page of the Soilscape website https://soilscape.eu/open-calls/) (scroll down until you see the Open Call kit). They are all downloadable.

42) is it realistic that I as a single artist instead of an arts organisation would be considered for funding of this size? Are there previous successful applicants who are emerging young artists?

This is our first and only launch of the Soilscape Open Call, so there are no previous statistics to share. That being said the call is expected to attract individual artists (see Section 3.2 Types of applicants)

We strongly recommended going through the proposal template and the evaluation criteria for that particular strand to ensure that as an individual you could fulfil the requirements. Subcontracting is allowed up to 25% for specific role that are clearly justified, and it is also possible funds for artist fees, soil science consultation ect. in the other goods and services cost category.

Please also keep in mind that 30% of the funding is released after the 1st deliverable is submitted, 50% after the second, and 20% after the final deliverable, so there is no pre financing offered.

If options exist to either apply as an individual artist or within an organization it may be advisable to consider how the implementation of your sub-project would differ in either scenario.

43) In the annex 2 of the Open Call text, you wrote: An applicant can apply for both categories SOILSCAPE FSTP and Soil Orchestra FSTP of the Open Call provided that the applications' content is different. The applicant needs to ensure that the work described in the two (2) applications is not the same. Question: How different the proposals have to be? Let's say, there is one proposal for a "orchestra film" about "healthy soils" in a broader sense, with a focus on a certain view. And the second proposal is for the innovative communication campaign. And here, the focus is on topics, that also have to do with "healthy soils", but of course with a much broader view. The filmic parts of the campaign are totally different from the orchestra film. And there are also additional media parts, so that the outcome is totally different, also with a different target group and different approach. But the focus is in both on "healthy soils" Is this different enough in the sense of the call? Or how would you describe, what is "different" in the sense of the call?

What is meant by 'different' application's is that the actions/activities of the projects are different.

Using the examples you provided, you could not apply with a 'healthy soils' film for the Soil Orchestra FSTP and then apply for the same "healthy soils" film in one of the strands of the Soilscape FSTP.

If the topic of 'healthy soils' is featured in both applications that is ok.

If both projects were for completely different films (e.g., different topic, different style ect) that would also be ok.

44) For Swiss Soil Orchestra FSTP: Since the language is German, does an entity based is French-speaking part of Switzerland need a German-speaking partner?

The requirement stated in the Applicant’s guide is that single applicants or at least one member of consortia are from Switzerland, even if the language of the festival is stated as German.

45) Regarding exhibition, if it will be presented at the festival, do we need to include costs of venue rental or is it provided by the festival?

It will not be necessary to include venue rental for the festival since it will be hosted by the Soil Orchestra. Basic amenities should also be provided (some of which are already listed in the appendices of the Soil Orchestras). If an exhibition has significant requirements beyond what could typically be provided by the event organizer it should be included in the budget. At the implementation stage projects will work closely with the orchestra conductors to ensure all logistics needs are aligned.

46) Would an applicant be eligible to apply for local/national FSTP in Portugal while being a consortium partner in a transnational application of a third party in another member state?

No, you could not apply for the Soilscape FSTP category with a local/national project and then with a transnational project. 

Yes, you could apply with a transnational project in the Soilscape FSTP category and then for the Soil Orchestra FSTP for the festival animation in Portugal.

47) The consortia of 3 partners can be from the same country?

Yes, partners of a consortium can be from the same country unless you are applying for the Transnational scale of the Soilscape FSTP, in which case 2 countries should be involved

48) In the case of a consortium, does each member fill in bank account information? Or will the consortium leader receive the funds to distribute to the other members? Thank you.

Yes, in the case of consortia, each partner is payed directly. This means that during implementation each partner will submit their own request for payment. At the proposal stage it means that it is necessary to have a clear budget breakdown per partner and per phase.

49) I cannot find the documents to fill in such as proposal template, budget template, declaration of honour etc. Are there any downloadable draft documents or should we design them?

The entire Open Call kit can be found on the website https://soilscape.eu/open-calls/

50) I would like to be an evaluator for this call. How can I submit my expression of interest? Thank you and best regards.

It is not necessary to select the Soilscape Open Call, all registered evaluators are entered in the pool of evaluators and those selected will be contacted to confirm interest and availability once the open call closes.

If you have not already done so you can create an evaluator profile and upload your CV.

51) In the OCK there are several downloadable templates, but according to the call text at submissions stage, applicants only have to submit these ones. Can you please confirm that I have understood it correctly? Documents to be submitted include: ● Proposal template (pdf) ● Budget template (pdf) ● Declaration of honour (pdf) ● Consortium declaration (pdf)- only for consortia ● Cooperation agreement (pdf) only for artists working under a registered entity ● SME declaration (pdf) SMEs only. For private entities (other than SMEs) proof of legal existence For instance the Bank account information; the Model sub grant agreement and the Ethics self-assessment are not mandatory. Concerning the two categories: Category 1: SOILSCAPE FSTP and Category 2: Soil Orchestra FSTP, Can you please confirm these key features? Both admit individual applicants and small consortia (up to 3 partners) Category 1 project duration: 6, 12 or 18 months grant : European/transnational sub-project (up to 150,000€) àThis imply having partners (up to 3) in different EU countries? National scale sub-project (up to 100,000€) àThis imply having partners (up to 3) in our country? Local sub-projects (up to 50,000€) Category 2 Project duration: 18 months grant: max 40.000 euro Concerning the personnel costs, I have some questions: Can we valorise the PM and related cost of internal staff working on the project? How can we demonstrate these costs during the reporting period? Are timesheets requested? Given that the Excel file only request the total PM, and the PM rate, I guess we have to enter an average amount

1. Documents:

• Yes the documents listed are correct. When you are start the application process in the opencalls.fund there will be space to upload each of those documents
  • Proposal template (pdf) (15 page limit, delete the irrelevant appendices)
  • Budget template (pdf) 
  • Declaration of honour (pdf)
  • Consortium declaration (pdf)- only for consortia
  • Cooperation agreement (pdf) only for artists working under a registered entity (this can be uploaded in the under 9f. other official supporting documentation (if relevant)
  • SME declaration (pdf) SMEs only. For private entities (other than SMEs) proof of legal existence (this can also be uploaded under 9f if you are not an SME) 
• The Open Call kit also includes the following for reference:
  • Open Call fiche (concise summary doc)
  • Call for evaluators (information for applying as an evaluator)
  • Bank account information (this is the document showing what will be asked if you the project is selected)
  • Model Sub-GA (this is the draft of the document that will be signed between the selected projects and Soilscape)
  • Ethics self-assessment (this will be integrated into the first deliverable in the implementation of selected projects) it may also be used to help applicants start to address ethical aspects in their proposal 

2. Individual Applicants vs Consortia

• In both categories individual applicants or small consortia (max 3 partners) can apply. 
• ONLY the Soilscape FSTP category under the transnational scale (for all 3 strands) is restricted to consortia of 2 or 3 partners  
• At the national scale of the Soilscape FSTP category, individual applicants are also eligible
• For the transnational scale it is expected that at least 2 countries are involved. This means that if you have a consortium of 3 partners, they do not all need to be from different countries. 

3. Timing/funding

• Soilscape FSTP: you can decide the scale you would like (local 50k, national 100k, transnational 150k) and you can decide on the duration (6,12, 18 months). In the proposal template you will then check 3 boxes on the left side of the column. While typically the scale and duration would be expected to align (e.g., smaller budget-smaller scale), however it is left open to allow for the artist processes and requirements of the sub-projects. Your selection should be clearly explained in the proposal 
• Soil Orchestra FSTP: yes you are correct, 18 month duration for all, 40k budget

4. Budget

•  I'm not sure what you mean. PM (person months) is a unit of work representing the effort of one person working full-time for one month. The PM rate is  the cost associated with one person-month of effort, and includes not just salary but also other associated costs like benefits, taxes, and overhead. 
• We follow a lump sum funding model which means that once an application (including budget) is approved we do not follow up on the budget and we do not ask for time sheets. The release of funding is based upon the acceptance of a deliverable (report of work completed) at the end of each phase. 
• Yes, each applicant (or partner in a consortium) should include the total number of PMs and the rate (in the yellow box) which will automatically calculate the total number in the white box

52) Hi, I’d like to ask whether an applicant is allowed to submit proposals under two different strands of the Soil FSTP, by providing each proposal addresses a different topic and set of actions.

No it is not possible to apply under two strands of the Soilscape FSTP (category 1). However, it is possible to apply under one strand of the Soilscape FSTP and one sub-category of the Soil Orchestra FSTP (category 2) with different projects.

53) During the webinar, it was mentioned that SOILSCAPE sub-projects will have the opportunity to participate in Soil Festivals. Does this mean that, if we apply and are selected under the SOILSCAPE FSTP strand, we would also be eligible to join the Orchestra Festivals — even if we are not applying under the “Soil Orchestra” strand specifically? Thank you in advance for the clarification.

Yes, even if you apply under the Soilscape FSTP category you could participate in the Soilscape festivals provided you include the associated travel/logistics costs. It was not included as a requirement because of timing and potential language constraints.

54) Could you kindly clarify: What disciplines qualify as “soil science” under this call? For example, would degrees in agronomy, environmental science, geography, geology or ecology—with relevant soil-related coursework—be acceptable? Is a Bachelor’s degree in such disciplines sufficient, or is a Master’s or PhD required? Is there a requirement for formal academic qualifications, or would professional experience in soil-related science or citizen science projects be acceptable? Thank you in advance for your assistance. Your guidance will help us ensure our proposal aligns with the criteria.

There are no formal academic or professional qualifications or requirements for applicants. This is because the emphasis is largely on arts/arts-based methodologies. That being said we require an indication of how project's will ensure their messaging aligns with current soil science knowledge. This is something that will be considered under evaluation criteria 1. Concept and feasibility " This includes scientific coherence and alignment with current knowledge of soils and the means of preserving them." (See 3.5.2 Remote evaluation), it may also be considered in criteria 4. Organizational capacity and sufficiency in the team’s background.

55) Concerning sound, light and stage equipment, will there be a basic stock of equipment (speakers, mixing console, rigging, lights) available at the soil festival in Germany? So is it true that renting equipment costs are not at all eligible and that all technical equipment must be bought? We are not sure if renting equipment means the same to you as „borrowing“ ..? Subcontracting - If renting equipment is not an option, could we then subcontract a event company to take care of the technical equipment?

Basic equipment will be offered (see the preliminary description of amenities in Appendices 6A-C, more specifics are not yet available. If you will need very specific equipment it would be advisable to include rental estimates in your budget rather than rely on the festival to provide them.

Equipment rental will be eligible in your budget under 'other goods and services', it is not obligatory to buy such equipment.

56) Is technical support provided by the organisers of the host festival? In particular, will the host festival provide specific personnel responsible for compliance with existing safety regulations on stage and in the auditorium, as well as stage technicians and stagehands?

The festival organizers will have staff or volunteers and the venues may also have staff. It is not possible to determine how much support is available at this time.

There is space in the proposal template to indicate logistical requirements.

Selected projects will work closely with the festival organizers to ensure the needs of artists and capacities of the organizers are aligned.

57) This is a question concerning the Budget XLS file: why "19" is noted in cell C11 in each page? Could we multiply the value in C11 by the value in D11 inside cell E11 despite the lack of formula? Thank you.

Thank you for your email. I'm not sure what you are referring to, I don't see a 19 in these cells.

Please refer to the template here (https://soilscape.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Budget-template-FSTP.xlsx)

58) How much time would we have to do the technical setups like stage setup, ligthing, soundcheck?

Kindly indicate such logistical requirements in the proposal template. Selected projects will work closely with festival organizers to ensure logistical needs are met as best as possible

59) In the Proposal, some questions require a maximum of 1000 characters. Are the spaces included inside the 1000 characters?

Yes, spaces are included in the character count.

60) Who will be the owner of the products delivered (canvas, kakemonos, etc.)?

Please see Section 5.8 IP ownership of the sub-grant projects of the Applicants Guide. In short, "The Sub-grantees funded within the SOILSCAPE project will be the unique owners of the works created within the framework of their sub-granted projects. Parts of their works will be requested to be public for SOILSCAPE dissemination purposes."

61) Hello, Is it possible to apply for the SOILSCAPE fund if you are an organisation based in the UK? Thanks very much, Ben Peirson Community Composter & Soil Life Educator South London Urban Growers +447757268809 https://www.instagram.com/_s.l.u.g._/

Yes UK applicants are eligible. For the full list, see Section 3.2 of the Applicants Guide

62) Could you provide us more information on the Timeline approach. I get that each phase will end with the deliverable, but could you provide us more information on the activities you are seeing in these phases? I checked the applicant guide, but was looking for additional information

Phase 1 is a planning phase that will culminate in the activity plan (essentially an elaboration of the proposal). Phase 2 is the main working phase and should include the main demonstration/production ect. Phase 3 will be an opportunity for extension, future planning ect. However, the specific activities in each phase will largely depend upon the type of sub-project and the creative process.

63) Hello, I was wondering for the transnational project (e.g. strand 3), how the activities that are provided can fit together with the transnational level. Should actions also take place on the local level for a transnational project, or is the focus more on activities that mainly contribute to the transnational level?

The approach taken at each scale will depend on the nature of the project activities. The description of the different scales can be found in Section 2.3 of the Applicants Guide.

64) I’d like to ask whether an applicant is allowed to submit proposal under two different strands of the Soil FSTP by providing each proposal address a different topic and set of actions

No it is not possible to apply under two strands of the Soilscape FSTP (category 1). However, it is possible to apply under one strand of the Soilscape FSTP and one sub-category of the Soil Orchestra FSTP (category 2) with different projects.

65) During the webinar it was mentioned that Soilscape sub-projects will have the opportunity tto participate in the Soil festivals. Does this mean that if we apply and are selected under the Soilscape FSTP strand we would also be eligible to join the soil orchestra festivals- even if we are not applying under the soil orchestra strand specifically

Yes, even if you apply under the Soilscape FSTP category you could participate in the Soilscape festivals provided you include the associated travel/logistics costs. It was not included as a requirement because of timing and potential language constraints.

66) For the German branch also allows for a video game to be handed in. Would this qualify as "Visual Arts" or something?

• For the Soil Orchestra FSTP Germany the objective as stated in Appendix 6B " The aim is to bring together artists and interdisciplinary teams to develop a collaborative visual art exhibition (and/or installations) that explores soil's aesthetic, scientific, and cultural significance. Collaborations among artists, musicians, and soil scientists are strongly encouraged. Exhibitions are also encouraged to combine diverse media". 
• There are 3 strands for the Soilscape FSTP program and three different scales (local, national, transnational). 
  • • Develop innovative communication campaigns
  • • Organize and promote artistic-soil related activities
  • • Deploy innovative, creative, and participatory methodologies to engage citizens with soil protection and preservation  
• These are much more open, and are not restricted to a specific activity or centered on participation in a Soil Orchestra festival. 

All of the documents can be found on the website here, in particular the Applicant's Guide where you can find all of the details about the various categories.

67) * How many days will the festival be and is it requested, to play shows at more than one day? * Will there be overnight accommodations during the festival or do I have to plan hotel and food for the performers for the festival time? * Will there be technical support for the performances at the festival? And maybe even equipment like headlights?

If there are any requirements with regards to the number of performances per festival (or per day) they will be indicated in the appendix of the applicant's guide for the specific Soil Orchestra FSTP. If not, there is space in the proposal template to indicate what would be possible/ideal. The number of days of each festival are also indicated in a table in the appendix for each Soil Orchestra. You will need to include travel costs in your budget. In terms of the amenities and support, this is also indicated in the festival tables in the appendices. Most of the festivals have the intention of providing basic amenities, that being said there is also space in the proposal template to provide your logistical requirements,

Extensive information is not available yet as the first edition of the festivals have not taken place yet. Selected projects will be able to work closely with the festival organizers to ensure that everything aligns. 

68) How flexible these standard timelines are? Could it be possible to adapt the period of the different phases according to the project ?

The implementation phases are tied to the submission of 3 deliverables which are then tied to the release of funding, so it is not possible to adjust the overall structure. The specifics of the activities conducted during each phase will depend on each project and should be clearly described in the proposal. During implementation the deliverables will be designed to provide evidence that the work promised within each phase has been completed

69) Can you provide us with the template for the consortium agreement (we are 3 partners) document that is required during the proposal submission?

 All of the documents can be found on the website https://soilscape.eu/open-calls/ , under open call kit. Here is the direct link to the consortium statement (https://soilscape.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Annex3-Consortium-Agreement.docx) .

70) Given that the call is open to “Horizon Europe” participating states and associated countries, would the Netherlands as an EU state, be a possible country of origin?

Yes the Netherlands is an eligible country. For the full list of eligible countries please refer to Section 3.2 of the Applicant's Guide

71) What is necessary to include at the proposal stage with regards to sub-contracting? (i.e do we need to include the offers or the selected one)

At the proposal stage it is only necessary to justify why you will be using subcontracting and the specific role of the sub-contractor.

72) For the videogame creation can a non-Italian company (that speaks english/italian and the Deliverable will be in Italian) apply to the Soil Scape Orchestra Open Call

Yes it is possible to apply as a Spanish company for the Italian Soil Orchestra Educational video game category. According to Appendix 5B of the Applicant's Guide " The call is open to single applicants or small consortia, of up to three (3) members, from the categories described in the eligibility criteria (Section 3.2). Applicants from Italy and all Horizon Europe (HE) eligible countries may apply; however the festival will be held in Italian, and the game should be playable by the Italian speaking children at the festival"

All deliverables will be submitted in English

73) Can unregistered artists cooperate with others through subcontracting, or must they join the consortium? Is it possible to extend the duration of a project while it is being implemented? If so, under what conditions can this be done?

1. Yes subcontracting would be an option, since the agreement and payment will be between you and the subcontractor,

2. It is not possible to extend the duration of a project. There are 3 choices for the Soilscape FSTP (6, 12 or 18 months), the Soil Orchestra FSTP are all 18 months. Proposals are encouraged to consider how their work can have lasting impact/future exploitation so if you have other activities planned beyond the duration of the sub-project you could indicate so, however it would not be considered in your budget.

74) Types of artistic outputs: For the Portuguese strand of the Soil Orchestra FSTP call, the open call documentation does not define clear guidelines regarding the expected types of artistic outputs. We understand that only the three highest-scoring proposals — regardless of artistic format — will be selected for funding. However, we are uncertain about the expected scope and nature of artistic interventions (e.g. sculpture, film, photography, science-fair-style models or prototypes), especially considering the integration of education and environmental literacy objectives. Authorship of the artistic work: Is it mandatory for the artistic creation to be produced exclusively by the project beneficiary(ies), or can it result from co-creation processes with target audiences?

1. The Portuguese Soil Orchestra is looking for festival animation, so the core of the project is to be part of the festival. It is completely open in terms of what that may be. The most typical examples include performance based (on stage, roving) and exhibition of some sort or more of an interactive workshop. 

2. Absolutely, a co-creation process would be acceptable, however it will be important to provide preliminary plans for how to address ethical aspects/consent.

75) 1.The budget projection for vehicle rental is very high, even more than a brand new vehicle. In this case, can we buy a vehicle instead? 2. We also understand that equipment depreciation cost is covered, but can we purchase training equipment like projector, computer, etc. 3. How many staff are allowed under the budget to travel for the Soil Festival and what could be the budget limit?

1. You may purchase any equipment that you may need, including a new vehicle however only the depreciation costs are covered. 

2. Yes, all of those things count as equipment so they could be purchased but only depreciation costs are covered. 

3. There are no specifications for travel or personnel costs.

76) the call criteria in the Appendix (8) for the French Soil Orchestra suggests that only French legal entities can be partners. Can you confirm if this prevents our applying for this alongside our French partners?

Yes for the French Soil Orchestra FSP category only applicant's from France are eligible, Appendix 8 of the Applicant's Guide states: " Only applicants that are valid legal entities from France will be eligible and the festival language will be French" 

It is of course possible to apply for the Soilscape FSTP within one of the 3 strands and at 6/12/18 month time scale. This category does not have the same restrictions as the Soil Orchestra FSTP category

77) "Should we include our participation in the festival in the SOILSCAPE FSTP budget (travel and mission expenses), or will our expenses be covered by the Orchestra?"

The travel costs should be included in the budget of the applicants.

78) In particular I would like to have better clarified the following aspect: “Only one (1) proposal per applicant can be selected for funding per category. An applicant can apply for both categories SOILSCAPE FSTP and Soil Orchestra FSTP of the Open Call provided that the applications' content is different. The applicant needs to ensure that the work described in the two (2) applications is not the same”

Yes, so you can take part (as an individual applicant or as part of consortium) in 1 Soilscape FSTP application (pick 1 of the 3 strands) as well as 1 Soil Orchestra FTP (pick 1 country and 1 sub-category if applicable). 

As long as the projects are different. For example you cannot apply with a play for Stand 2 of the Soilscape FSTP and then apply with the same play in Soil Orchestra FSP- France festival animation, the same would go for a single art exhibition or the same workshop ect. Of course, for example: you can apply with two completed plays, or exhibitions with different materials, or workshops on different topics/with different activities.

79) 1. Annex 3 Consortium Declaration: Who is the Consortium Coordinator? Is it the same as Consortium Leader or does it refer to another role in de SOILSCAPE Consortium? (“Payments will be done separately to each partner directly from the consortium coordinator.”) Is only the Consortium Leader referred to as Sub-grantee or all members as well? 2. Annex 4 Declaration of Honor: Does every Consortium Member have to submit a filled in and signed Declaration of Honor or only the Consortium Leader? 3. Annex 5 SME Declaration: This document shall only be filled-in by SMEs or by all participating entities / Consortium Members? 4. Annex 9 Ethics Self-Assessment: Does this document need to be filled in, signed and submitted? 5. General: Is E-signature eligible, or is hand written with stamp signature required? Which documents need to be signed and submitted with the proposal by all Consortium Members, other than the Consortium Leader? Please specify for the following: Annex 4, Annex 5, Annex 7, Annex 9

. It is not mandatory to have a consortium coordinator unless it is something that benefits you within your team organization. All we are looking for is that only one partner of the consortium submits the application. During implementation, funding is released directly to each partner, it does not go through the 'coordinator' of the consortia.

2. All members of the consortium should sign the declaration of honour.

3. SME declaration only needs to be filled in by SMEs. If all partners are SMEs then all partners should complete an SME declaration. If only one is an SME, than only that partner needs to fill out the SME declaration. 

4. Annex 9- The ethics self assessment is not necessary to complete at the proposal stage. It is a reference to help applicants start considering the ethical implications of their proposed work and may be useful to address the ethics related chapter of the proposal template. It will be part of the first deliverable (Activity plan) for the selected projects. 

5. Both approaches are acceptable, but it must be a valid e-signature (examples are indicated in the applicant's guide). As mentioned above, all partners should sign the declaration of honour, only SMEs need to complete the SME declaration and the ethics self assessment is not required at this stage. The consortium statement should be signed by all partners and the budget should include a sheet for each partner. 

80) The consortium for an international application, needs to be made by 3 partners from 3 different countries? or the countries may be 2

For the international scale a minimum involvement of two countries is required, and it is necessary to apply as a consortium. This can be either 2 or 3 partners.

81) Is it possible to see what previous projects were about, so as not to repeat the same ideas? Also, I wonder if I could be a partner in one application and at the same time, be an applicant on the other? Or be a partner in more than one application?

This is the first and only open call being offered by Soilscape so there are no previous examples to provide. We have done our best to provide a few indicative examples in the applicant's guide but our goal is to promote creativity and do not want applicants to feel confined to those indicative examples.

82) participants from any European states may participate in the international scale?

Yes,  for the Soilscape FSTP consortia can be made up of partners from an Horizon Europe eligible country (including all EU member states). For the full list please refer to Section 3.2 of the Applicant's Guide

83) For local and national scale projects, what is the minimum and maximum number of partners required in the consortium?

For the local and national scale of the Soilscape FSTP, it is possible to apply as an individual applicant (single entity) or with a consortium of 2 or 3 partners. The maximum size of consortia across the entire open call is 3 partners.

84) 1. In the case of a consortium, can there be more than three partners? 2. Can there be support organizations within the consortium? That is, organizations that do not receive financial resources (because they do not need them) but are useful for logistical and technical support. 3. Does each member of the consortium have to report on their progress/results, or is the project leader responsible for reporting on behalf of everyone? 4. Can each member of the consortium receive their financial resources independently?

1. No it is not possible to have a consortium of more than 3 partners. Consortia can be made of 2 or 3 partners. 

2. Yes it is possible to involve additional organizations that will not receive funding. An organization that is not receiving funding would not count within the 3 partner consortium limit and are not listed as applicants in the application documents. Their specific role should be mentioned where relevant in the proposal template but critical tasks should not be allocated to such an organization. 

3. It is up to each project how they structure their consortium and whether they have a coordinator/leader. From a practical standpoint at the proposal stage we just need one of the partners to make the submission on behalf of the consortium and during implementation only 1 partner needs to submit the deliverable. The deliverables submitted are at the project level so it will not be necessary to complete separate reports per partner. 

4. Funding is released to each consortium partner directly during implementation (not through a project coordinator/leader). Once a deliverable has been accepted, we will send a payment request form to each partner, once they are returned payment can be released. This means that if one partner delays it does not affect the other(s).

85) I understand that we cannot submit one proposal under strand 1 and another proposal under strand 2 of the SOILSCAPE FSTP. My question is can we submit one single proposal for a local scale sub-project that foresees activities that fall under all 3 strands? Do we need to choose activities that fall under only one strand? If it is possible to choose more than one strands for activities under a single common proposal, what does that mean for the budget? Could the granted budget be 50.000 euros x 3 strands (meaning 150.000 euros) for a single local project? Also in that case in the proposal template do we need to mark all 3 strands and fill in all the strands fields in section ‘Appendix 1. SOILSCAPE FSTP’?

1. It is not possible to apply in multiple strands. The maximum budget for each scale is also fixed.

86) Does the document ‘Proof of legal existence’ need to be submitted for an individual applicant that is considered a public authority/public institution?

No, it is not necessary for public authorities 

87) When filling in the budget template of the proposal, and particularly section titled ‘5. Other Direct costs: Other goods & services ( consumables and supplies, dissemination, protection of results, certificates on the methodology, translations, and publications, services for meetings, seminars or events, website, fees (artistic, speaking, writing, cast, rights ect.), production costs and technical costs, short-term rental of surfaces, venues of studios (e.g., for productions, rehearsals, events ect).’, must we add sublines to the section for example a line about video recording 2.000 euros, a line for consumables 500 euros, a line for dissemination material 1.500 euros etc and provide justification per line? Or should we alter the text of the box after ‘5. Other Direct costs:..’ and add there all the relevant expenses under the heading that are planned and a total budget estimation and one justification. Similarly, please let us know if sections ‘2. Subcontracting (up to a maximum of 25% of the proposed budget. Please provide details of scope, 3. Other Direct costs: Travel Costs (please provide details of travel expected) and 4. Other Direct costs: Equipment costs (please provide details of equipment costs expected)’ of the budget table need to be filled in one box all together or be broken down per subline.

The more details and justifications you can provide in the other goods and services the better. You can use the justification/explanation box to break down the costs but only include the total in the total cost column. The same applies to for the other categories. It is not necessary to add lines. Provide the breakdowns in the explanation/justification and only include the total cost in the total cost cell. It is not necessary to justify 'indirect costs

88) In section ‘3. Methodology- For this section, go to the relevantAppendix and follow the template for the specific call category that you are applying for: ‘ of the proposal template, how do we correctly complete it? Do we need to transfer above to section ‘3.Methodology’ the correct strand’s corresponding table-fields from Appendix 1. SOILSCAPE FSTP and then delete the whole Appendix 1 SOILSCAPE FSTP section? Or do we just fill in the table of the strand applicable within the Appendix 1. SOILSCAPE FSTP and leave both the text in ‘3.Methodology’ and the unfilled tables of other non-applicable strands as they are. There is a page limitation for the proposal to have in mind.

For the methodology section of the proposal template you only use the appendix for the selected option. (E.g., strand 1) Kindly delete all other appendices and continue with subsequent proposal chapters. ​The page limit is 15 pages. This does not include the cover page or table of contents. You may also delete explanatory text. Anything beyond the 15 pages will not be evaluated. (This is all clearly stated in the proposal template).

89) In the Call Guide it says ‘For personnel costs, indicate the number of person months, and link such personnel effort to the contents (tasks, goals) of the proposal.’. Should we structure the work planned in individual clear Tasks for example T1.1, T1.2 etc instead of just stating what we plan to do for example an event will be planned that will include such and such activities etc, do we need to break it down into clear tasks in order then to link pm with tasks? If so, in which section of the proposal template should we develop it as such? I think it will be section 2.3 Work plan and activities, but I am not sure which sub-section. Please let us know which sub-section, is it 3. Methodology?

It is up to you how you organize (and potential name) your work flow . The PMs can align with tasks or goals and the amount of detail will depend on the project. In the case of consortia this is where you can distinguish the roles/work between partners. For individual applicants they will be undertaking all of the work. The point is to make sure the work that will be done aligns with the effort. The workplan will likely be the most relevant part of the template.

90) Hello, in the budget template you have to calculate the budget allocated to dissemination activities. Is there a manditory percentage of how much this budget should be in reference to the total budget? I can't find that information in the instructions..

There is no mandatory budget requirement for dissemination activities.

91) Hello, is there a minimum budget for strands 1-3? When I fill in the budget template - if the total costs are under 30.000 Euros the cells "Total costs" and "requested funding" turn red. However if I have a consortia of 3 partners, they have to be under 30.000 Euros, if you apply on a local level with a maximum budget of 50.000 Euros.

There is no minimum budget requirement for strands 1-3. Please ignore the red colour of the cells.

92) I would like to know if the CVs of the companies, organisations or individuals forming the working group need to be uploaded.

It is not necessary to upload CVs for the project. There is space in the proposal template to describe the team involved in the proposal.

93) if a university is participating as a 'contact person', can this be a professor, or must it be someone from the secretariat responsible for participating in calls

It is necessary for the legal representative of the organization to sign the declaration of honour however the contact person registered on the platform can be any member of the organization.

94) I am writing to express my interest in contributing as an evaluator for this call and would appreciate any guidance you could provide regarding the application or selection procedure. Could you kindly advise on the steps required to apply, as well as any relevant deadlines or eligibility criteria? Thank you in advance for your time and assistance. I look forward to hearing from you.

The application process takes place entirely on the https://opencalls.fund/. You simply register as an evaluator, create your profile and upload your CV. It is not necessary to select the Soilscape Open Call, you will be entered in the pool of evaluators and once the areas of expertise and CVs have been reviewed selected evaluators will be contacted to confirm their interest and availability. 

More information can be found in the Call for Evaluators here. 

95) I am writing to express my interest in contributing as an evaluator for this call and would appreciate any guidance you could provide regarding the application or selection procedure. Could you kindly advise on the steps required to apply, as well as any relevant deadlines or eligibility criteria? Thank you in advance for your time and assistance. I look forward to hearing from you.

No answer provided yet.

96) Hello, I am confused about what goes under subcontracting as compared to Other Direct costs. I would like to hire a cinematographer, workshop assistant, editor and fact checker. Which category would these fall under?

Subcontracting refers to outsourcing a specific task/activity of the project to an external entity or individual. Typically when it is necessary to engage specialized expertise or resources not available within the consortium (or individual applicant). Subcontracting cannot exceed 25% of the budget and should be well justified in the budget templates and proposal and it needs to come out of one of the partners budgets (as that partner will be responsible for paying the subcontractor).

Other goods and services would be for specific products or services that supports the project but is not a core task.

For example: if your project is to create a film and you need to bring on a production company do all of the post-production/editing, that would be sub-contracting. If your project is to perform a play but you will have it filmed and so you need to hire a videographer to do it, that would be other goods and services.

Depending on the nature of the your organization, if you are hiring anyone (e.g., assistant) that could also fall under personnel costs.

97) If I understand you correctly, there are no limitations on who can apply for the Swiss FSTP call. Anyone with an idea based on our main categories is welcome to apply. Is it OK for a Swiss citizen living in Switzerland to apply to another OC FSTP. Is this true?

• In the case of the Swiss open call, it states in Appendices 11A-C that  "Applicants from Switzerland and all HE eligible countries may apply, however at least one partner in a consortium must be Swiss, in the case of individual applicants, only Swiss applicants will be accepted. Furthermore, German and/or Swiss German proficiency are required as these are the festival languages.
• Swiss applicants can also apply for the Soilscape FSTP category (the one with the strands).

98) Can a Swiss SUISA member artist, being registered and coming from an HE eligible country, also apply for a German Orchestra call, together with a German partner?

Each of the Soil Orchestras set their own criteria, many of them are fully restricted to the ACSO countries. However, in the case of the German FSTP it is stated in Appendices 6A-C of the Applicants Guide:

"Applicants from Germany and all HE eligible countries may apply, however both German and English proficiency are required as the festival will require performances and other interactions to take place in both languages"

That being said, applicants can only apply once in each of the two categories (e.g., 1 strand of the Soilscape FSTP and 1 Soil Orchestra FSTP sub-category). So, yes you could have a consortium with a German and Swiss partner apply for the German Soil Orchestra FSTP, but the Swiss partner could not also apply for the Swiss Soil Orchestra FSTP. 

99) Would including research add value to the application? Or would it be better to focus solely on the co-development of practical activities and building networks? Could the project involve research activities or data collection? Would it strengthen the application if the project leader were a professor, or is a postdoctoral researcher considered equally credible in this context?

• It depends on which category you are applying for and how it aligns with those objectives of that call, as well as how it fits within the other activities you have planned. On the one hand, if a substantial amount of time and resources were devoted to research at the expense of what would be considered the core activities requested by the call, then it may not be advisable. On the other hand, if it is complimentary and does not limit the activities it could be presented in a way that also promotes the longer term impact of your project. 
• There is no reason why the project could not involve research and data collection (many of the methodology appendices of the proposal template ask about data collection), however please be sure to consider the ethical implications of the research already at the proposal stage. (Note that selected projects will complete the ethics self assessment as part of the first deliverable, but ethics should still be considered at the proposal stage)
• In this context it should not make a difference if the applicant is a full professor or post-doc as long as the team has the capacity to complete the project activities. 

100) we would like to know if there is a pre-established format for assigning budget shares to each partner. If such a format exists, where can we find it? Alternatively, can a private internal agreement signed between the parties be used?

From our side, we simply require the budget template (found here on the Soilscape website, to be completed by each partner. Besides following the guidelines of the template, we do not require a certain percentage to be allocated to each partner. 

Private agreements made with sub-contractors are not required to be submitted to the Soilscape team. 

We do have a consortium statement (found here) to be signed by all partners of a consortium. 

101) I am part of an organisation that is considering submitting a proposal in which I would take part in. I am wondering whether I could submit one application as an individual for my own project which is different from my organisation's project, or whether that is considered as the same applicants.

As long as you are not the legal representative for the organization then you could also apply as an individual in the same category. Of course you cannot apply with the same project either (with your individual application).

If you are the legal representative it is only possible to apply with 2 unique proposals if they are in different categories (so 1 in the Soilscape FSTP and 1 in the Soil Orchestra FSTP).

102) In the Applicant's Guide, (3.2.1.2 Definition of Eligible Countries) it states that "Participants (other third countries) from the following low- to middle-income countries are automatically eligible for funding according to the List of Participating Countries in Horizon Europe, as of December 20, 2024:" Can you tell me whether organisations and individuals from these countries can submit an application independently, or just in collaboration with an EU country - for example, in the transnational scale of the SOILSCAPE FSTP category.

Applicants can apply independently, they are not required to partner with an EU country. They are not restricted to only the transnational scale either.

103) I am registered for tax purposes as an Artist (Music Composer) in Germany as a part-time profession ("Nebenberüfliche Tätigkeit"), which I practice alongside my research position at a university. Does this fulfil the definition of a "Self-employed individual" in the Applicant's Guide? (see 3.2.1 Types of Applicants)

Dear applicant,

Yes it would.

104) Hi! What documentation do self-employed artists need to provide to apply to the call? Thanks!

Dear applicant,

This will depend on the country you are applying from.

105) I am a self-employed individual artist. Do I have to include a proof of legal existence as one of the documents to be submitted with the proposal?

Dear applicant,

If this involves more than a form of registration/tax number then yes.

106) Hi! What documentation do self-employed artists living in Spain need to provide to apply to the call? Thanks!

Dear applicant,

Each country has there own requirements, this is the responsibility of the applicant

107) Is it acceptable to include figures (charts, illustrations, drawings and similar) into the application form or it should include only text?

Yes you can include figures, charts if it will add clarity to your application.

108) Is it also necessary for self-employed members of a consortium (for example freelance artists) to sign the Declaration of Honour? In this case, is the "business entity" referring simply to their activities as a VAT-registered self-employed artist?

Yes, all partners or individual applicants must sign the declaration of honor.

Yes exactly.

109) I want to pose the following question concerning the language of implementation of the FSTP Stand 3: Could you clarify which activities deliverables have to be done in English, and which can be done in the countries language? Can the SOILSCAPE FSTP Strands also be carried out in the countrys language or is this only applicable for the Soil Orchestra?

All deliverables and communications with Soilscape must be in English but the activities can be in local languages.

110) I am exempt from registering for VAT because my income falls under the income boundary in the country I am registered to pay taxes (Germany), and therefore have no VAT-number. The projected sums I will be receiving as part of the budget for the SOILSCAPE project will also fall under this income boundary, so I will remain VAT-exempt. Am I still eligible to apply for the project? Should I simply leave the VAT number blank, or write "exempt", in this case?

Kindly indicate exempt but could you provide any proof of this status or link to the legislation about this threshold

111) In the case of a consortium, does the consortium leader fill the submission form alone without mentioning the other member of the consortium? Or does the consortium leader mention the 2 consortium members in the application form (i.e. 2 names, 2 mails, 2 phone numbers; 1 file with 2 proofs of existence, etc.)? Thank you.

In the case of a consortium. One partner is requested to submit the application/proposal. However all partners should sign the declaration of honour, consortium statement, (SME declaration when relevant) and their own sheet of the budget excel template. There is space in the proposal template to provide the information on all consortium members

112) Hi, I have a question regarding the type of applicants. You mentioned the possibility for unregistered artists to cooperate with another organisation, under the terms of a collaboration agreement, in order to be associated with valid legal entities. Is this option also available for other categories than artists ? For example researchers who, at the time of the proposal, are not associated with any legal entity (university or museum for instance) ? Thank you very much

Yes, it would be possible in this case as well. It is not restricted to artists.

113) A question on the concept of subcontracting: in the case one of the consortium partner is an association of pubblic institution, and part of the costs of services needed for the artistic performance (i.e. subsistance and accomodation of artists) are paid by their associated and invoiced to the partner, should this be considered other costs or subcontracting?

No answer provided yet.

114) At pag.31 of the Applicant's Guide are indicated the end of the PLAN and DEVELOP phases on Jul 2026 and May 2027, respectively. Are these deadlines mandatory or can they be delayed or anticipated on the basis of the seasonal activities of the sub-project?

The duration of the phases are based on the timing of the projects. For the Soilscape FSTP they can be 6, 12 or 18 months. The timing of the phases is set.

For the Soil Orchestra FSTP the duration is 18 months, however end of the 2nd phase will be finalized once the dates of each festival are set, since the main demonstration/activity is connected to the festival

115) Hello, how should a region in nation-wide projects be defined? More specifically, is EU Nomenclature for Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS) appropriate way to define a region? For example, Croatia is divided into 4 NUTS regions - if Croatian sub-project envisions events in each of those regions, would that count as a nation-wide reach of the project?

In a national scale projects the regions can be defined in the way that is most suitable and aligned with your plan. We would just like to see that activities take place in more than one isolated area.

116) Is the SME declaration required if the applicant is a Faculty?

Do you mean a faculty of a university?

If your faculty has launched a start up or spin off then yes. If you are still applying within the university then no.

117) Hi, I can't find the proposal template in pdf and the budget template. Where can I find them?

Dear applicant,

All necessary downloadable templates can be found on the website

https://soilscape.eu/open-calls/

Scroll down to the heading "open call kit". The proposal is a word doc and the budget template is an excel. Kindly complete, save as pdf and upload within your application.

118) If applicants are sole trader or self-employed activity, do they have to prepare SME declaration?

Dear applicant,

If you are a registered company then yes. If not, then it is not required.

119) We are a german registered non-profit association consisting of artists and interested parties. We would like to submit the application through our association, in cooperation with a university as a second partner. Four artists who are members of the association would like to collaborate on the project (a performance/art installation) and take on the relevant tasks. However, they cannot do so on a voluntary basis; they must, of course, receive fees. The association makes agreements with each of the four individual artists (Group A) stating that they are engaged as artists for the project, that they must take on the relevant tasks, and that they will receive fees for this. The association also engages non-members of the association (Group B), e.g., external service providers, etc., as subcontractors. 1.) Question: Does Group A, i.e., the artists or members of the association (which is submitting the application), count as subcontractors? Please answer clearly with only "yes" or "no"? 2.) The first partner or applicant is our association, the second partner is a university. Question: Do the individual artists (association members) also need to be named as partners? Please answer clearly with only "yes" or "no"? 3.) If question 2 was answered in the affirmative: How and where should these individual artists be listed in the application? As Partner 3? Yes or no? But the proposal form doesn't have columns for individual individuals, only "Organization Name." And the organization to which the artists belong is already listed as Partner 1. Thank you for the information.

No answer provided yet.

120) Can the three partner be one individual and two associations?

Dear applicant

Yes, as long as they each meet the eligibility criteria.

121) Dear SOILSCAPE team, I am reaching out to kindly request some clarifications regarding the open call: 1. In Annex 9 on Ethics (Chapter 2. Humans, page 3, 5th key point), it is stated: “Informed consent for activities involving children under 18 years (or other persons unable to give consent) must be obtained from the parents/legally authorized representative, and it must be ensured that they have sufficient information to enable them to provide this on behalf and in the best interests of the children. Whenever possible, the assent of the participants should be obtained in addition to the consent of the parents/legal representatives. Dissent should be respected.” If the planned activities of a proposal are to be carried out in schools, would consent provided by the school director or the teacher be considered sufficient, or is parental/legal representative consent strictly required? 2. In the Proposal Template, it is mentioned that “The cover page and the ToC are not included in the limit of the 15 pages.” Could you please confirm whether page 3 is counted towards the 15-page limit? 3. According to the Guide for Applicants, all requested documents/deliverables and communications must be submitted in English. In our proposal, we plan to develop a digital tool to engage a wide audience of children and citizens. To ensure inclusiveness and accessibility, we intend to provide the tool in our local language. Would this approach be considered eligible? Thank you very much in advance for your guidance and support.

Dear applicant,

1. It is not necessary to complete the ethics self assessment at the proposal stage. It will be part of the activity plan deliverable for selected projects. A webinar will also be held with Soilscape's ethics advisor to provide guidance.
2. The title page and ToC do not count in the page limit. You can also delete all appendices that are not relevant (you should only have selected 1 appendix). Since explanatory text can be removed, that would include the instructions box on page 3
3. We only request that deliverables and communication with the Soilscape consortium are in English. Activities can take place in local languages.

122) Are there any specific requirements for each phase except for the necessary deliverable? For example what work packages cannot take place during the Plan or Validation phases? Could activities potentially take place during these phases?

There are no specific requirements for each phase aside from the submission of the deliverable. That being said, the planning phase has been developed to require as few resources as possible, which is why the deliverable is an activity plan. It will be necessary to present a significant output for the end of phase 2. We do not want to see projects that plan their main exhibition/event/show ect. for the final month of the project.

123) Regarding the declaration of Honor, as a single applicant (freelancer), do I need a lawyer to sign the form for me?

No, that is no necessary. Your signature will be enough.

124) One of our consortium partners does not yet have a Participant Identification Code (PIC), as required for EU framework projects. Do they need to obtain a PIC, or can they participate using their VAT number instead?

Dear applicant,

PIC numbers are not required. A VAT is enough.

125) An organization cannot be involved in more than one application per open call category. Is this only applicable as a partner, e.g. can an organization be involved in one proposal as a partner and in other proposals as subcontractor? In other words: What is exactly meant with "involvement", and where is the threshold to be considered "involved"?

Dear applicant,

The same organization cannot apply twice in the same category as an applicant whether in a consortium or as an individual. It is not a requirement to indicate who will carry out subcontracting at the proposal stage, nor to provide the names of artists that will participate in the shows (though other costs).

126) Is a private non-profit University based in Italy eleigible to participate as partner in SOILSCAPE FSTP open call? thank you very much

Dear applicant,

Yes, for both the Soilscape FSTP category as well as the Italian Soil Orchestra FSTP category

127) In the case of Equipment Costs, only depreciation costs are eligible. Is there an exception for capacity-building purposes, as in other Horizon Europe projects, so that some specified equipment costs can be fully covered as a unit cost? In our case, this is to distribute equipment to a project partner from a low-income country, in order to enable their participation in the project.

No answer provided yet.

128) The budget states, “Only the depreciation cost of the equipment should be included.” Does “equipment” refer only to technical equipment? Can we include all of the costs we incur for producing an exhibit (materials such as wood, soil, scaffolding, poles, etc.)? What about speakers installed in the exhibit? Can we only include the depreciation costs here?

Dear applicants,

The costs of materials and other consumables fall under other costs, as do rentals.

Equipment costs are for any equipment required for the direct execution of the project. For example: musical instruments for a musical performance or an aerial rig for an outdoor circus show would be equipment.

129) Please clarify whether the 1,000 characters limit includes spaces or not.

Yes, spaces are included in the character count.

130) Where can I find the templates for the documents that I need to upload with my proposal?

Dear applicant,

All documents can be found on the website https://soilscape.eu/open-calls/. Kindly scroll down to the open call kit where you will find all necessary downloadable files.

131) Dear SoilScape team, We would appreciate if you could clarify the following doubts:  - Proposal template: the number of characters allowed is with or without spaces? - Budget: can you please confirm that the budget for Dissemination activities is only 7% of total eligible costs? In the template, if the cell C23 is higher than 7%, the cells turns red, indicating there is some restriction. However, we didn't found any information about this in the applicants guide or FAQs Thank you very much for your help!

Dear Applicant,

Characters include spaces.

There is no dissemination % requirement, you can ignore the box. Or if you visit the website the budget template was updated to remove this error.

132) Hey, we're applying for FSTP strand 3. In the application template in Section 3 (Methodology), the section "Evaluation and Indicators of Success" asks specifically for 1) metrics and indicators for citizen engagement, behavioural changes, and the success of creative methodologies, and then 2) it also asks separately for indicators for success, including engagement metrics, behavioural change and project impact. We are confused about the doubling/redundancy between 1) and 2) within the same section and were also wondering what to write about project impact since all of section 4 of the application is titled impact as well. We would appreciate a clarification so that any redundancy can be avoided. Thank you in advance! Charly Hergert, Alnarp's Agroecology Farm

Dear Applicant,

Please answer each question, focusing on the differences and for overlap refer to the section where you feel you have provided the answer already. *e.g KPIs for X indicated in Section Y.Z

133) Dear SOILSCAPE Team, I have a question regarding the Eligibility Criteria and the understanding of "affiliated entities of existing members of the SOILSCAPE project". Could you please clarify whether a university that is not a direct partner of SOILSCAPE, but is a member of a network which itself is a SOILSCAPE partner, would be eligible to apply for the SOILSCAPE Open Call, or would such an entity be excluded?

Dear applicant,

A member of a network that a consortium partner is also involved in is no problem. An affiliated entity typically means there is a legal or capital link.

134) Dear Soilscape team, I am a freelance artist (Maison des Artistes in France). What type of proof of existence do I need to provide? An Urssaf withholding tax exemption? An Urssaf contribution notice? As a freelance artist, do I need to fill out the SME document?

No answer provided yet.

135) Dear sir, in Finland we dot not use stamps. Our organization uses visma sign which uses eIDAS PAdES-based signatures. Can we just sign the documents with this service and then stamps are not needed?

Dear applicant,

Yes this is perfectly suitable.

136) Good evening, I have a few questions regarding the eligibility criteria for consortia and the SME Declaration. 1) We wish to establish a consortium for the Soilscape project (Strand 2). The lead partner is a social cooperative (400 employees, €15,000,000 in turnover), the first partner is the Municipality of Reggio Emilia (population 150,000), and the second partner is a National Park. Do we meet the requirements to participate? 2) What type of company is the Municipality according to Annex 5 - SME Declaration? 3) If the Municipality is unable to provide the data to determine the company category (Headcount-AWU, Annual Turnover, Balance Sheet Total) can it not be included as a project partner? 4) In the latter case, can we proceed with participation as a consortium of two entities (cooperative and National Park)?

Dear applicant,

The SME declaration only needs to be completed by companies. Nonprofits and government agencies do not need to complete it.

137) Good morning, If for a local project we plan to involve a photographer to document the participation activities and we include his name in the proposal, but later he is no longer available, can we appoint a different photographer instead? Similarly, in the case of an artist collaborating under a subcontracting: if we mention the name in the proposal, are we bound to work with him, or can we appoint another artist if the original one is unavailable?

Dear applicant,

It is not necessary to mention a name at the proposal stage, only what the subcontracting or other cost will be for.

If you prefer to include a name an it changes, that is okay as well.

138) Is there a template available for the cooperation agreement?

Dear applicant,

A consortium statement for full partners is available on the website with the rest of the open call kit.

The cooperation agreement is only necessary in the case that you representing an unregistered artist, which is why there is no specific template.

139) Is there a template available for the cooperation agreement to formalize the relationship between the foundation submitting the application and the individuals who will be appointed to carry out the project?

Dear applicant,

It is not necessary to include cooperation agreements for sub-contractors or service providers

140) We submitted a project in partnership between two non-profit organizations, and we attached proof of both organizations' existence, as they are non-SMEs, but the system only accepted the file from partner 2, the last one submitted. However, the text contains a link to the lead partner's website, which confirms its existence. Is the submission valid?

Dear applicant,

Don't worry. If there are any issues during the eligibility check we will contact you for the other documents.