We are delighted to share wonderful news with our community: eucen has been awarded the 2026 EU Operating Grant. This marks a significant milestone for our association, as it is the first time in 12 years that we have applied for this highly competitive structural funding and we have been successful with a very high score. It is especially meaningful to receive this support in a year when we celebrate our 35th anniversary.

The evaluation results were particularly encouraging. The evaluators clearly recognised the value of eucen’s work and expressed strong confidence in our capacity to contribute meaningfully to Europe’s priorities, as well as to support our members and the wider University Lifelong Learning community.

This achievement reflects the trust placed in eucen as a key actor in advancing lifelong learning across Europe and demonstrates the relevance and impact of our collective efforts.

Thanks to the 2026 Operating Grant, we will be able to significantly enhance our activities for members and the wider community. Plans include:

• Improving our website and creating a dedicated ULLL Hub section
• Supporting our National Network representatives to participate actively in all eucen events
• Launching new working groups, including the Learning City Universities group, which will meet for the first time in Cagliari in June
• Offering solidarity funds to institutions in need
• Recognising the contributions of our members through the new EUCEN ULLL Awards
• Expanding our alliances in Brussels and amplifying our voice at the EU policy level
• Making available different opportunities to work with the Steering Committee (through Support Visits), with other members (through Mentor-Mentee sessions), or with eucen staff (through consultation Clinics in Barcelona or online).

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all members and partners who continuously support eucen’s mission. This success belongs to our entire community, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead to strengthen lifelong learning in Europe.

Stay tuned. An inspiring year lies ahead for eucen and all our members!

Want to ask us something? Write to projects@eucen.eu