EEA/DTL/TC/26/002 - Topic Centre on Digital Capabilities and Geospatial Services

EEA/DTL/TC/26/002 is an open public tender by the European Environment Agency for a Framework Service Contract to establish a Topic Centre on Digital Capabilities and Geospatial Services with an estimated total value of €4,000,000 and an initial duration of 24 months renewable up to three times (total 54 months). The contract covers data governance, migration of data flows to modernised platforms (Reportnet, EEA DataHub, Data Lakehouse), integration of AI/ML and LLMs for advanced analytics, Copernicus and Earth Observation data integration, development of reusable geospatial datasets and APIs, and capacity building for the Eionet network. Participation is restricted to designated Topic Centre Organisations (TCOs) and tenders are expected to be consortia aligning with EEA designation and procurement rules. Electronic submission via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal is required by 06 August 2026, 14:00 CET and award criteria weight quality at 70% and price at 30%.

What it funds

Scope summary

A framework services contract to support implementation of the EEA-Eionet Digital Capability Strategy: data governance and interoperability, migration to modern data platforms (Reportnet, EEA DataHub, Data Lakehouse), advanced analytics and AI/LLM integration, Copernicus/Earth Observation data integration, development of reusable geospatial datasets and GIS-based digital services, plus capacity building (training, workshops, webinars) for the Eionet network.

Who can apply:Qualified service providers and consortia (IT, data, GIS and analytics specialists) able to deliver technical assistance and capacity building to a public authority; see procurement documents for specific selection and qualification requirements ¹.

1. 1Design and implement data governance, reporting and interoperability standards
2. 2Migrate and modernise data flows to EEA platforms and lakehouse architectures
3. 3Deliver AI/ML, LLM and advanced analytics integration, including data-cube usage
4. 4Integrate Copernicus/EO data with EEA repositories and produce reusable datasets
5. 5Provide GIS development and technical capacity building for Eionet

This is an open tender (lot LOT-0001). Awarding criteria weigh quality (70) and price (30); consult the draft contract and technical specifications in the tender dossier for detailed requirements and timelines.

Footnotes

1. 1Procurement documents, draft framework contract and technical specifications are published on the Funding & Tenders Portal opportunity page Tender details.

High-level description

The European Environment Agency (EEA) invites tenders for a framework service contract to establish a Topic Centre on Digital Capabilities and Geospatial Services. The contractor will support implementation of the EEA-Eionet Digital Capability Strategy by providing services across data governance, data lifecycle management, interoperability, modernised data flows (including Reportnet, EEA DataHub and Data Lakehouse architectures), and advanced analytics and intelligence (AI, machine learning, large language models and data mining). Activities include development of reusable high-quality datasets, integration of Copernicus and Earth Observation data with EEA repositories, geospatial (GIS) service development, innovation testing with new technologies and data sources, and technical capacity building for the Eionet network through training, workshops and webinars.

Lead contracting authority:European Environment Agency (EEA) EEA Website

Call identifier and procurement type:EEA/2026/OP/0023. Contract nature: services. Main CPV: 73000000 (Research and development services and related consultancy services).

Estimated total procedure value:€4,000,000 (estimated overall contract amount).

Planned contract duration and framework arrangement:Planned total period: 54 months. The framework contract is concluded for an initial period of 24 months, renewable up to three times as per the draft framework contract in procurement documents.

Detailed eligibility and administrative information

This opportunity is a public tender published on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Submissions must be made electronically via the Funding & Tenders Portal (eSubmission). The tender documentation package is published with multiple annexes including technical specifications, draft framework service contract, financial offer form, reimbursement rules, corporate standards, EEA IT and data management policies, an overview of required professional and technical expertise, and a checklist for eSubmission. The procurement includes one lot (LOT-0001). The open tender event date and submission deadline are defined in the procurement documents.

Key dates:Publication date: 29 May 2026. Deadline for submission (closing date): 6 August 2026, 14:00:59 (Europe/Copenhagen timezone). Open tender event (clarification/meeting) scheduled 7 August 2026 at 10:00 (local time) as stated in tendering documents. Additional information request period closes 29 July 2026. Consideration-change deadline for some documents: 12 June 2026.

1. 1Tender publication date: 29 May 2026
2. 2Deadline for questions (additional information request period): 29 July 2026
3. 3Tender submission deadline: 6 August 2026, 14:00:59 (Europe/Copenhagen)
4. 4Open tender event: 7 August 2026, 10:00 (local time)

What the contract requires (scope of work and technical priorities)

The successful contractor will deliver services and expertise to support and operationalise the EEA-Eionet Digital Capability Strategy. Core responsibilities and technical priorities include the following areas.

1. 1Data governance and lifecycle management: assist with implementing data governance standards and processes for EEA, Eionet and interfaces with the European Commission; support harmonisation of metadata, quality assurance, lineage and interoperability standards.
2. 2Modernisation of data flows and architectures: support transition of data flows to modernised systems including Reportnet, the EEA DataHub and Data Lakehouse architectures; enable automated, scalable data ingestion and processing.
3. 3Advanced analytics and intelligence: integrate AI, machine learning, large language models (LLMs), data mining and data-cube approaches to improve analytics, modelling and indicator production; advise on model governance and reproducibility.
4. 4Earth observation and Copernicus integration: integrate Copernicus and other Earth Observation datasets with EEA repositories; enable fused analyses between EO and in-situ or administrative data.
5. 5Geospatial information systems and services: develop reusable geospatial datasets, GIS-based services and tooling to support thematic assessments, modelling and indicators; modernise map and spatial data services.
6. 6Reusable datasets and service APIs: produce high-quality, well-documented, reusable datasets for modelling and indicator work; design APIs and data products following interoperability and FAIR principles.
7. 7Innovation and new data sources: test and pilot new technologies and data sources (including sensors, non-traditional data streams) to enhance operational efficiency and policy impact.
8. 8Capacity building and network strengthening: deliver specialised training, workshops and webinars for Eionet and EEA staff on geospatial data, data architecture, digital skills, and application of AI/ML in environmental assessment.

Projects and activities are expected to support multiple thematic areas of the EEA and Eionet while prioritising horizontal alignment across reporting, interoperability and data quality so outputs can be reused across the network and for EU reporting.

Structured answers to classification questions

Eligible Applicant Types:The procurement targets organisations capable of delivering technical services and expertise in data engineering, geospatial services and analytics. Typical eligible applicant types include: SMEs, large enterprises, research institutes, universities, non-profit organisations, consultancies, specialised geospatial/GIS companies and consortia combining technical providers and research partners. The procurement documentation specifies tenderer qualification requirements and selection criteria; subcontracting and consortium bids are commonly permitted under EU tenders, subject to the tender rules and documentary evidence presented by bidders.

Funding Type:Procurement of services under a public framework service contract (service contract). This is not a grant, loan or equity instrument but a commissioned contract with financial remuneration based on the financial offer and awarding rules.

Consortium Requirement:The tender does not mandate a consortium; a single legal entity may submit a tender. However, the scale and multidisciplinary nature of requested expertise (data governance, data engineering, GIS, AI/ML, EO integration, training delivery) make consortium or subcontracting arrangements common and advisable. Tender documents include selection criteria where consortium composition and professional/technical expertise will be evaluated. See Annex 4 (Overview of professional and technical expertise) in the procurement documents.

Beneficiary Scope (Geographic Eligibility):The contracting authority is the European Environment Agency. Procurement on the EU portal is generally open to economic operators established in EU Member States and eligible countries according to the procurement rules; the EEA/Eionet network includes EU Member States, EEA countries and cooperating countries (for example EEA cooperating countries such as Ukraine as noted on the EEA site). Bidders should consult the procurement documents for exact eligibility/compliance rules and nationality or establishment requirements.

Target Sector:Primary sectors: ICT (data engineering, cloud and data architectures), geospatial and GIS services, environment and earth observation integration, advanced analytics and AI/ML. Secondary cross-cutting sectors: digital skills and capacity building, software services, research and consultancy in environmental information systems.

Mentioned Countries:No specific list of tenderer countries is published in the summary. The opportunity is issued by the EEA; the EEA and Eionet reference includes EU Member States, EEA countries and cooperating countries (for example Ukraine is referenced on the EEA site). Bidders must consult procurement documents for formal nationality/establishment rules.

Project Stage (expected maturity):Implementation, operations and scale-up of digital capabilities. The contract focuses on operationalising strategies, migrating data flows, deploying architectures, integrating analytics and delivering capacity building—activities suited to organisations with established technical solutions and proven operational experience rather than early-stage RDI only.

Funding Amount (range):Estimated overall contract amount: €4,000,000. The framework contract will cover the full planned period (54 months) and is executed against calls-off or task assignments under the framework; bidders should prepare a financial offer using the provided financial offer template (Annex 1).

Application Type and Submission Method:Open public tender via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Submission method: mandatory electronic submission (eSubmission) through the Funding & Tenders Portal and the portal eForms extension. Bidders must follow the eSubmission checklist and submit all required annexes before the stated deadline.

Nature of Support:Monetary: remuneration through a service contract (payments based on the contractual terms, rates and reimbursement rules). Non-monetary: the contract requires delivery of non-financial outputs such as datasets, software components, documentation, training sessions, and technical assistance.

Application Stages:Primarily a single-stage tendering process (submission of complete tender including technical and financial offers) followed by evaluation. Administrative steps include a clarification/request for information period, technical and financial evaluation stage, possible requests for clarification, and award decision. The procurement documents describe the exact evaluation methodology and weighting (quality 70%, price 30% as referenced in awarding criteria parameters).

Success Rates:No explicit success rate is published. As a competitive public tender with one lot and an estimated value, success depends on meeting selection criteria and competitive scoring. Typical success rates for EU tenders vary widely and depend on the number and quality of bids; bidders should assume a competitive process.

Co-funding Requirement:No co-funding or matching funds are required from tenderers; the opportunity is a paid procurement contract. Tenderers must propose a financial offer and comply with reimbursement and contract payment terms described in Annex 3 (Reimbursement) and the draft contract (Annex 2).

Application and tender preparation—templates and required documents

The procurement package includes mandatory templates and annexes. Bidders must complete and upload the relevant documents via eSubmission. Key documents published with this tender include the following; use these templates as structured inputs for the submission.

1. 1EN-Invitation to tender EEA2026OP0023 Digital Capabilities (cover Invitation letter and general instructions).
2. 2EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex I Technical Specifications (detailed scope, deliverables, outputs, milestones, KPIs and expected expertise).
3. 3EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 2 Draft Framework Service Contract (contractual terms, duration, renewals, confidentiality, IP, liability and performance clauses).
4. 4EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 1 Financial offer template (Annex 1 to TS Financial offer template_V1.docx) — mandatory for pricing and cost breakdown.
5. 5EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 3 Reimbursement (rules on travel, subsistence, cost categories and invoicing).
6. 6EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 4 Overview of professional and technical expertise (specification of required team profiles, minimum experience and CV requirements).
7. 7EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 5 Corporate standards (formatting and presentation requirements, branding and corporate compliance rules).
8. 8EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 6 EEA IT and Data management policies (security, data protection, system interoperability and hosting rules to be respected).
9. 9EEA.DTL.TC.26.002_Annex 7 Checklist for eSubmission (practical checklist to confirm all files and forms are submitted and comply with portal requirements).

The technical offer should directly address the Technical Specifications (Annex I), demonstrate capacity and past experience against the professional profiles listed in Annex 4, and include a clear workplan, deliverables schedule, risk management and quality assurance approach. The financial offer must be submitted using the provided financial offer template (Annex 1). Non-compliance with mandatory templates or missing documents may render a tender administratively inadmissible.

Evaluation and award

Award criteria weighting is indicated in the procurement record:quality 70% and price 30% (the procurement documents include the detailed scoring methodology and any sub-criteria). The evaluation will assess technical quality, relevance and adequacy of proposed team and resources, methodology, past performance, and compliance with EEA IT and data management policies. Price will be evaluated against the financial offer template. Tenderers should consult the Technical Specifications and Draft Contract for terms governing performance, deliverables and payment schedules.

Practical recommendations for bidders

Given the multidisciplinary nature of the tender, bidders should:assemble a team covering data governance, data engineering (DataHub/ Lakehouse architectures), Reportnet experience, GIS and EO integration, AI/ML and LLM application experience, and capacity-building/training delivery; provide clear evidence of past projects with similar scope; follow Annex 4 required professional profiles and supply CVs and references; use the financial offer template (Annex 1) and adhere to Annex 6 EEA IT and Data management policies for security and hosting requirements; verify all uploaded files against Annex 7 checklist; and allow sufficient time for eSubmission prior to the strict deadline.

Where to access full tender documents:Full procurement package and upload/submission is available on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal tender details page for this opportunity Tender details ¹.

Comprehensive summary

This is a competitive EU procurement launched by the European Environment Agency to set up a Topic Centre on Digital Capabilities and Geospatial Services under a multi-year framework service contract (estimated value €4,000,000). The Topic Centre will provide technical services across data governance, modernisation of data architectures and flows (Reportnet, DataHub, Lakehouse), advanced analytics (AI/ML/LLMs and data mining), Copernicus and Earth Observation integration, geospatial services (GIS), production of reusable datasets and APIs, innovation pilots on new data sources and technologies, and capacity building for the Eionet network. The procurement is executed through the Funding & Tenders Portal with mandatory electronic submission and a defined set of templates and annexes. Bidders must respond to detailed technical specifications, supply required professional profiles and evidence of past performance, and submit a financial offer using the provided template. The award will be based on a quality/price split (indicative weighting 70/30). The contract is for services, paid on the basis of the contract terms and invoicing; no co-funding is required. Interested bidders should download and follow the annexes carefully, prepare cross-disciplinary teams or consortia to match the technical breadth required, and submit via the portal by the deadline 6 August 2026, 14:00:59 (Europe/Copenhagen).

Footnotes

1. 1Procurement documents include: EN-Invitation to tender, Annex I Technical Specifications, Annex 1 Financial offer template, Annex 2 Draft Framework Service Contract, Annex 3 Reimbursement, Annex 4 Overview of professional and technical expertise, Annex 5 Corporate standards, Annex 6 EEA IT and Data management policies, Annex 7 Checklist for eSubmission. See the tender page for downloads and the eSubmission portal.

Overview of the Opportunity

This is an open tender for a Framework Service Contract (FWC) to support the implementation of the EEA-Eionet Digital Capability Strategy 2025-2030, focusing on data reporting, lifecycle management, interoperability, AI integration, and geospatial services ¹. The contract is valued at approximately €4,000,000 and will run for an initial 24 months, renewable up to three times for a total duration of 54 months ².

Who Can Apply

Participation is strictly restricted to designated Topic Centre Organisations (TCOs) appointed by the EEA Management Board under the 2025 Implementing Rules ³. Tenders must be submitted as a consortium of at least 5 designated TCOs established in different EEA member countries, with one partner acting as the coordinator ³.

Key Eligibility Requirement:Organisations must first contact their national Eionet Representative to initiate the designation process and become a prospective TCO before the submission deadline ⁴.

Scope of Work

1. 1Implement data governance standards and transition data flows to modernised systems (Reportnet, EEA DataHub, Data Lakehouse)
2. 2Integrate AI, Machine Learning, Large Language Models (LLMs), and data mining for advanced analytics
3. 3Integrate Copernicus and Earth Observation data with EEA repositories using Geospatial Information Systems (GIS)
4. 4Develop reusable, high-quality datasets for modelling, indicators, and assessments
5. 5Strengthen the Eionet network through specialised training, workshops, and webinars on geospatial data and digital skills

Contract Details

How to Participate

Interested organisations must first inform their national Eionet Representative of their interest to become a TCO, after which they will receive access to the submission tool to apply for designation ⁴. The final tender must be submitted electronically via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal by the deadline ⁵.

Footnotes

1. 1Official Tender Details: EU Funding Portal
2. 2Contract Duration and Value: Development Aid Tender Summary
3. 3Eligibility Criteria: Consortium of 5+ designated TCOs from different countries Development Aid Tender Summary
4. 4TCO Designation Process: EEA Topic Centres Call for Interest
5. 5Submission Deadline and Method: Evergabe Tender Notice