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Become a member.

Together we can achieve more.
Joining OpenAIRE means becoming part of a vibrant, international community that is shaping the future of Open Science. Whether you represent a university, research funder, infrastructure, or national body, we invite you to an open discussion to understand your needs and concerns as well as dig deeper into the services, outreach and capabilities of OpenAIRE. Let’s explore together how membership can support your goals and amplify your impact.

Why join OpenAIRE?

Be part of a European Network

Collaborate with 50+ leading organisations across Europe and beyond, connecting with peers who share your commitment to Open Science.

Shape the Future of Open Science

Contribute to policy development, standards setting, and service innovation. Your voice matters in defining the future landscape of Open Science.

Support at Home, Visibility Abroad

Bring OpenAIRE services and expertise to your organisation while gaining international reach and recognition in the global Open Science community.
View membership benefits

How to become a member

Learn about the benefits of membership

As an OpenAIRE Member, you can take part in our governance bodies, co-shape services and policies, enjoy privileged access and discounts on OpenAIRE services, and receive support for advancing national and European Open Science initiatives. Review the full list of membership benefits as well as other ways to partner with us.

Submit your expression of interest

Fill in our Expression of Interest form to let us know about your organisation and priorities. This helps us understand how we can best support your Open Science journey.

Discuss your needs

Our team will reach out to arrange a short meeting to explore how membership can best fit your goals. This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn more about what OpenAIRE can offer.

Start your journey

Once your membership is approved by the General Assembly, you'll be welcomed into the OpenAIRE community and gain access to our network, services, and support.

Heads up!

This page is for organisations that want to become OpenAIRE members and take part in our network, governance, and services. If you are here to register a repository or a journal, please go to our Data Source Registration pageinstead. If you have any other questions on technical matters please use the Helpdesk. If you want to know about partnerships please contact us at amke at openaire.eu. 

Ready to join?

Take the first step today by submitting your Expression of Interest.

Want to know more?

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I become an OpenAIRE member?
Organizations interested in joining OpenAIRE are invited to submit an Expression of Interest using the online form available on this website. Once submitted, the OpenAIRE team will get in touch within one week to explore your interest and discuss next steps.

In this initial conversation, we’ll listen to your institution’s Open Science needs, introduce you to OpenAIRE, and discuss how membership (or other forms of collaboration) can help you make the most of these opportunities.
Who can be an OpenAIRE member?
OpenAIRE membership is open to a wide range of organisations involved in research and research support, including:
  • Research Performing Organisations, such as universities, research centres, scientific institutes, government labs, Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs), and Large-scale Research Facilities (LRFs).
  • European research infrastructures, including ERICs, research infrastructures, and e-infrastructures.
  • Research Funding Organisations (RFOs).
  • European or international associations.
  • Intergovernmental or international organisations (IGOs).
  • Not-for-profit multinational organisations.
Membership is subject to the conditions set out in the Statutory Documents and the decisions of the General Assembly.
What is the role of OpenAIRE members?
OpenAIRE members contribute to strengthening the European Open Science ecosystem in ways that fit their national context and capacity. We look to members to stay connected with key stakeholders, keep an eye on national projects and infrastructures, and highlight where OpenAIRE services or support may be helpful. Members help raise awareness of Open Science practices and policies, share relevant training or information locally, and ensure OpenAIRE’s activities are visible and meaningful within their community. In essence, OpenAIRE members act as national anchors: connecting people, sharing knowledge, and bridging local efforts with the wider OpenAIRE community.
Membership Options/ Categories
OpenAIRE works with organisations through several collaboration models, depending on the level of engagement and involvement they are looking for.
  • Members are part of OpenAIRE’s core community. They actively contribute to shaping the organisation’s strategy and governance and participate in decision-making bodies.
  • Collaborating Partners work with OpenAIRE on shared objectives aligned with our mission and strategy. These partnerships are usually formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and focus on collaboration rather than governance.
  • Subscribers access one or more OpenAIRE services through an annual service fee, without participating in OpenAIRE’s governance or decision-making.
  • Service Customers purchase specific OpenAIRE services on an ad-hoc basis, paying per service rather than through a subscription.
Each option reflects a different level of engagement, from strategic co-leadership to service-based collaboration. For full details on each category, please refer to the Membership section of the website.
How does a member become a National Open Access Desk?
Each eligible country can have only one National Open Access Desk (NOAD) institution. If there is more than one OpenAIRE member in the same country, the members from that country must agree among themselves which organisation will act as the NOAD, following their own internal selection process.
Can I cancel my membership?

Yes, you can cancel your membership any time, with a six-month notification.  

If you choose to terminate your membership before the end of the calendar year, any membership fees already paid are not refundable.

Will my membership be renewed automatically?
Yes. Your membership is automatically renewed at the end of each calendar year unless you formally inform OpenAIRE of a change to your membership status, with a notification of at least six months.
View membership types

A factsheet

To use as a starter guide