NordForsk Launched Nordic-Baltic Food Security Program
The research initiative seeks to improve regional food system preparedness and crisis response capabilities.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Nutrition
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NordForsk has issued a call for proposals to fund research projects focused on food security across the Nordic and Baltic regions. The initiative aims to support approximately ten projects that address critical infrastructure, crisis response, and consumer behavior.
Why it matters
The region faces growing food security risks driven by geopolitical instability, climate change, and disruptions in global trade chains. This coordinated research effort follows the 2024 Karlstad Declaration, which prioritized regional food preparedness.
The program offers a maximum of 15 million NOK per project for Nordic partners, with an anticipated total of ten research projects to be funded. Available funds include 115 million NOK for Nordic partners alongside specific allotments for Estonia and Lithuania.
The players
NordForsk
This is an organization under the Nordic Council of Ministers that provides financial support for Nordic research cooperation.
The details
Applicants must incorporate stakeholders and end users into the co-leadership of their projects to address one of three core themes. Proposals should focus on solving systemic challenges related to critical infrastructure, crisis response, or consumer behavior patterns.
Timeline
19 June 2024: The Karlstad Declaration was signed.
08 October 2026: The call for proposals was launched.
02 November 2026: The deadline for submitting researcher contact information.
The Big Picture
The program follows the commitments established by the Karlstad Declaration, aligning new research funding with the established mandate for coordinated food preparedness.
This research initiative aims to secure long-term food availability, which may eventually lead to more resilient supply chains for regional consumers. The project results could eventually influence public policy regarding how food is sourced and distributed during national emergencies.
The takeaway
Regional cooperation on food security is becoming a central pillar for navigating modern geopolitical and climate-related threats. Stakeholders are encouraged to monitor these upcoming research projects as they aim to establish new standards for critical infrastructure resilience.
What happens next
The deadline for submitting researcher contact information is 02 November 2026.
Further reading
For more information on food systems, visit the Nutrition section.
More information
Review the full requirements and project guidelines on the NordForsk call for proposals.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NordForsk.
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