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Existing consortium is looking for a Bulgarian partner with proven experience in delivering nature-based solutions for water management under PRIMA 2025 call, Topic 1.1.1-2025 Water management in Nexus.

Summary

Profile Type
  • Research & Development Request
POD Reference
RDRGR20250514014
Term of Validity
14 May 2025 - 14 May 2026
Company's Country
  • Greece
Type of partnership
  • Research and development cooperation agreement
Targeted Countries
  • Bulgaria
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General information

Short Summary
A consortium preparing a proposal under the PRIMA 2025 Nexus call (Topic 1.1.1-2025: Upscaling Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Water Management to Address Extreme Events in the Mediterranean) is seeking a Bulgarian SME with proven expertise in implementing nature-based water solutions—e.g. wetlands, green roofs, rain gardens. The selected partner will co-develop and pilot innovative, ecosystem-based strategies for resilient water management across Mediterranean settings.
Full Description
This concept-stage initiative, developed by the consortium, explores how nature-based approaches can enhance the resilience of water management systems in Mediterranean cities, towns, and rural landscapes.

Climate change is already bringing longer dry periods and more intense storms; hard infrastructure alone cannot cope with the resulting shortages, floods and pollution. By restoring wetlands, creating rain gardens, using permeable surfaces and protecting river corridors, natural systems can slow runoff, filter pollutants, recharge groundwater and provide green spaces that benefit local communities and wildlife.

The project will design and pilot a portfolio of these measures, combining scientific know-how with place-based knowledge. It will also evaluate the social, environmental, and economic benefits of working with nature. The initiative aims to support integrated water governance and foster ecosystem resilience through co-created, nature-based strategies that work across sectors.

The emerging consortium seeks a Bulgarian SME with demonstrated experience in implementing nature-based water management solutions—such as planning and constructing wetlands, riparian buffers, green roofs, or natural purification systems. The ideal partner will adapt designs to local ecological and regulatory conditions, co-lead onsite demonstration activities, engage local communities and authorities, and contribute to monitoring, replication, and scaling strategies. Together, the consortium aims to create practical, inspiring showcases of how healthier ecosystems can deliver clean, reliable water supplies while promoting biodiversity and climate resilience.
Advantages and Innovations
This project offers a transdisciplinary, ecosystem-based approach to managing water in Mediterranean regions increasingly stressed by climate change. It combines engineering expertise with ecological restoration and local knowledge to deliver tailored, place-based solutions. By demonstrating scalable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional grey infrastructure, the initiative highlights how nature-based strategies can provide robust responses to extreme weather events. The project places strong emphasis on co-creation and active engagement with local communities, ensuring greater acceptance, relevance, and long-term sustainability. Real-world demonstration sites will be integrated with research on socio-economic, environmental, and hydrological impacts, enabling evidence-based evaluation and wider replication across the Mediterranean.
Stage of Development
  • Concept stage
Sustainable Development Goals
  • Goal 15: Life on Land
  • Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
  • Goal 13: Climate Action
  • Goal 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal

Partner Sought

Expected Role of a Partner
The consortium seeks one Bulgarian SME that already delivers nature-based water projects on the ground. The partner will (i) supply or secure a suitable demonstration site (Nestos area), (ii) co-lead the detailed design and permitting of measures, (iii) share performance data for joint monitoring, business-case development, and future up-scaling. Proven experience in EU-funded water or climate actions, fluency in English, and the ability to mobilise regional stakeholders are highly desirable.
Type and Size of Partner
  • SME 11-49
  • SME <=10
Type of partnership
  • Research and development cooperation agreement

Call details

Framework program
  • Access to finance
Call title and identifier
PRIMA – Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area
Thematic Area 1-Water Management in the Nexus (TOPIC: 1.1.1-2025 Upscaling Nature-Based Solutions for sustainable water management to address extreme events in the Mediterranean.)
Coordinator required
No
Deadline for EoI
Deadline of the call
Project duration in weeks
156
Web link to the call
https://prima-med.org/submit-your-project/water-management-in-the-nexus/

Dissemination

Technology keywords
  • 010002009 - Water Pollution / Treatment
  • 10004008 - Water Resources Management
Market keywords
  • 08004003 - Water treatment equipment and waste disposal systems
  • 09008002 - Water, sewerage, chemical and solid waste treatment plants
Targeted countries
  • Bulgaria