Research grants (Over $500K)
48 opportunities
Industrial Readiness for Affordable Ka-band User Terminals
→Expected Impact: Projects funded under this call are expected to deliver tangible industrial outputs that demonstrably advance the readiness and affordability of future governmental Ka-band user terminals for IRIS2 and GOVSATCOM services. Expected outputs include, for example: qualified production processes, calibrated sub-assemblies, pilot-run units, validated manufacturing equipment chains or manufacturing cost models. Purely analytical deliverables (studies, design reports) are not sufficient as primary outputs but may complement the above. Where relevant, outputs shall include documented design assumptions, interface parameters or process specifications enabling adaptation to different terminal configurations with limited re-engineering, so as to support uptake in follow-on integration, pilot deployment and scale-up activities. Objective: The aim of this call for proposals is to advance the industrial readiness of European Ka-band user terminal technologies, subsystems and manufacturing processes, with a view to enabling cost-effective production of user terminals for services provided under the Union secure connectivity programme (IRIS²) and GOVSATCOM. The target reference…
Grant$22.8MCloses 2026-08-26EUResearchMicroelectronic – Front-End Module (FEM)
→Expected Outcome: The targeted outcomes reflect the above challenges and cover a comprehensive Front End module design which: Covers the FR3 range as defined by the relevant Agenda Item of WRC 27 (7 to 15 GHz range) with possible extension up to 24 GHz if required by some regional implementations, with inherent tuning capabilities to accommodate potential regional variations. Mitigates interferences with incumbent FR3 band users and maximises sharing capabilities across the band in line with the European regulatory approach on spectrum sharing. Enables integration of a large number of antenna elements beyond the State of the Art and support massive MIMO implementation with compensation of increased path loss compared to 5G FR1 implementations. Enables at least an order-of-magnitude increase in RF processing compared to 5G FR1 implementations. Enables 5G cell site reuse and minimises deployment complexity on top of 5G sites deployment. Enables low-cost and low energy implementation of the elementary constituent modules, efficient packaging and is mainly based on the integration of microelectronics heterogeneous technologies where European industry has strong expertise and…
Grant$16MCloses 2026-09-03EUResearchERC PLUS GRANTS
→Expected Outcome: Objectives and profile of the ERC Plus Grant Principal Investigator The ERC Plus Grant supports outstanding Principal Investigators who address a major scientific challenge. Applications for ERC Plus Grants should be for projects that could not be carried out with a regular ERC grant. Applicants should explain how the proposed project aims go beyond those of a regular ERC project, for example, because they have a vision to transform their field or open a new field of research. Scholars at all career stages can apply for an ERC Plus Grant if they have an outstanding record of scientific achievement at the forefront of their field. Their intellectual leadership will be evaluated in comparison to peers at their own career stage. It is expected that a researcher may be the Principal Investigator of only one ERC Plus Grant in their lifetime. Applicants should be aware that every year, only some 30 ERC Plus Grants can be awarded across all fields and all career stages, compared to approximately 1000 Starting, Consolidator and Advanced Grants. This level of competitiveness should be taken into account when considering whether to submit an application. Size of ERC Plus…
Grant$8MCloses 2026-09-02EUResearchSkills Hubs of Excellence
→Expected Outcome: Expected outcomes: A sustained pipeline of highly qualified semiconductor graduates, with shorter time-to-readiness for industry roles; greater inflow of diverse talent including women and underrepresented groups; improved intra- and extra-EU student mobility; and strong complementarity with existing Chips Act infrastructure such as pilot lines, design platforms, and Competence Centres. Scope: This call funds the creation of specialised academic "Hubs of Excellence" in critical semiconductor technology areas (e.g. chip design, manufacturing, photonics, power electronics). Projects should build industry-aligned Bachelor, Master, and PhD programmes.
Grant$11.4MCloses 2026-09-24EUResearchAI compute evaluation and deployment platform for EU infrastructure
→Expected Outcome: The expected outcomes of this topic are : A common EU evaluation platform for AI chips and racks, with transparent KPIs, workloads and benchmark reports used for Chips JU selection and procurement decisions. First pilot deployments of European AI compute systems validated for EU sovereign partitions of AI infrastructure. Structured collaboration between buyers and suppliers, supporting deployment, integration and optimisation of European AI compute solutions. Stronger EU demand for European AI chips and racks, helping to create a market for deployment-ready solutions. Increased EU technological sovereignty across the AI compute stack for European datacentres.
Grant$80MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchIA Resilience call reinforcing Europe's strenght in power electronics
→Scope: Proposals innovations should address one or more of the several domains : WBG substrates to reduce EU dependency on material and provide more sustainable, industrially compatible solutions. WBG platform for cost effectiveness, available in 300mm for GaN and/or SiC to improve yield and power density and close gaps in the value chain. A toolbox (e.g. wafer cut, smart stacking, thin layer transfer, epitaxy, UWBG materials) for further innovation schemes. Next generation or optimised new power semiconductor devices fitting their application. Adding intelligence to power semiconductor devices on control and/or sensor side. Facilitate the propagation of EU Packaging/Integration excellence along the entire value chain e.g. pre-packages or power semiconductor device packaging solutions to enable power device/system integration and strengthen Europe’s competitiveness in advanced packaging. Explore the use of heterogeneous and functional integration for improved performance, reliability, robustness and cost competitiveness. Rising operative voltage, frequency, current and thermal features that are common challenge on power electronics across the different application sectors. Provide…
Grant$11.4MCloses 2026-09-16EUResearchCall with Digital Partnership and TTC countries
→Expected Outcome: The focus needs to be on areas where Digital Partnership countries bring strong complementary expertise, including advanced packaging, heterogeneous integration, and photonic chip technologies. The topic would aim to foster collaboration between European and Digital Partnership countries’ R&I communities. Projects are expected to contribute to the following outcomes: • Innovative design and integration concepts for neuromorphic computing systems supporting very low energy consumption, connectivity, embedded functions for mobile applications. • Alternative manufacturing process technologies for semiconductor chips including frontend or backend for heterogenous integration. The technologies should sustain in the mid- and long-term the fast-paced evolution of device performance, miniaturisation and cost, while reducing the environmental footprint. • Very advanced packaging solutions aiming heterogeneous integration of multiple functions and materials for applications in communication (RF, mmW or THz), sensing, actuating, power management and active/passive integration.
Grant$5.7MCloses 2026-09-16EUResearchLarge-Scale Photonic Quantum Computing Platform Technologies
→Expected Outcome: This action will establish a strategic European initiative to develop scalable, modular, and interoperable photonic quantum computing platforms. Proposals for this topic are expected to address and provide credible solutions to at least two major technical roadblocks currently limiting the advancement of photonic quantum computing such as: The lack of deterministic, high-efficiency photonic entanglement and loss-tolerant architectures suitable for fault-tolerant scaling The absence of a standardised, integrated control stack combining photonic hardware, firmware, and system software with reliable benchmarking across platforms Project results are expected to contribute to the following expected outcomes: By 2028, demonstration of a photonic NISQ processor with ≥100 photonic qubits, integrating deterministic single-photon sources, low-loss waveguides, on-chip detectors, and a firmware stack (scheduler, controller, compiler), validated via hardware-agnostic benchmarks and hybrid photonic-HPC applications demonstrating classical-quantum crossover By 2030, delivery of a full-stack, high-connectivity photonic quantum computer, with modular scalability, integrated…
Grant$11.4MCloses 2026-09-30EUResearchIntegrated Production and Product Development for Next-Generation Lithium-based Batteries for Mobility (BATT4EU and Made in Europe Partnerships)
→Expected Outcome: Proposals are expected to contribute to all following points: The projects must fulfil the performance targets, at the cell and system level, corresponding to the specific targeted application, to be specified in the proposal. Appropriate KPI must be defined for the energy density (volumetric and gravimetric), Power density and C-rate, number of cycles and cost defined under operational conditions. Boost EU competitiveness in next-generation battery technologies for mobility applications. Develop pilot manufacturing capability for next generation lithium-based batteries. Strengthen the EU battery value chain, including new manufacturing equipment, automation, and scalable production processes. Advance the understanding of next-generation battery interfaces at an industrial scale, ensuring manufacturability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. In the case of aviation, the battery requirements should be compatible at minimum with EASA CS.23 (level 4), CS.27 and preferably with CS.25 categories. Scope: This topic will support the scaling-up of next generation (i.e., beyond generation 3) lithium-based batteries (e.g., semi and all-solid state, generation5) from cell…
Grant$38MCloses 2026-10-08EUResearchAI integration in CCSI work practice: catalysing innovation and competitiveness
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Insights, recommendations, strategies, guidelines, methods and tools supporting full AI integration in CCSI practices become available to CCSI, policymakers, and stakeholders. Scenarios for co-created solutions tailored to CCSI needs, utilizing quality data and federated data sources, along with digital infrastructures, and inclusive cooperation processes, become available. Generally made available AI-powered and ethically designed solutions, tools and services in several CCSI areas benefit creators, cultural professionals, and society, including persons with disabilities and other specific needs, fostering innovative creative expressions and improving creative business models while preserving and enhancing cultural diversity, and inclusion. By mastering ethical and inclusive AI, CCSI are empowered drivers of culture, innovation, competitiveness and societal wellbeing. Scope: AI technologies are transformative, providing unprecedented opportunities for human creativity, experimentations and co-creations. AI profoundly impacts cultural and creative sectors and industries, changing practices,…
Grant$5.7MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchFlagship-pilot: large-scale demonstrations of CCAM (CCAM Partnership)
→Expected Outcome: This flagship pilot is the culmination of the entire activity catalogue carried out by the CCAM Partnership since its launch in 2021. It will combine in one project the most promising CCAM use-cases across three key domains, with the technological advancements from all its R&I clusters [1] supporting and enabling CCAM systems and services towards market uptake. This action is expected to contribute to all the following outcomes: Large-scale demonstrations of inclusive, user-oriented, and well-integrated CCAM systems and services for people and goods in mixed traffic through Field Operational Tests (FOTs), Technology Pilots, and Living Labs, building upon advanced and emerging SAE Level 2 systems to move towards SAE Level 3 and 4 functionalities, at multiple test sites and corridors showcasing CCAM potential [2] , for a minimum of 12 months. Validation of enabling technologies that facilitate the extension of Operational Design Domains (ODDs) in large-scale operations and enhance perception performance under poor lighting and adverse weather conditions in large-scale demonstrations and pilots. Assessment of deployment readiness and demonstration of technological…
Grant$114.1MCloses 2026-10-08EUResearchInternational collaboration EU and Japan on semiconductors
→Expected Outcome: Projects are expected to contribute to the following expected outcomes: Advanced heterogeneous integration, particularly in 2.5D and 3D packaging and integrated photonics, to support AI functionalities. Standardised chiplet interfaces, enabling interoperability and fostering a dynamic chiplet ecosystem Expected outcomes should have direct and immediate impact on European industry. Furthermore, proposed projects should demonstrate solutions across laboratory and pilot environments, with verification in semiconductor manufacturing use cases. The centre of gravity of envisaged work should address Technology Readiness Levels 5-7. Proposals also need to facilitate knowledge transfer and promote stakeholder engagement through industry workshops, publications, and networking events.
Grant$5.7MCloses 2026-09-24EUResearchResearch and Innovation Network for a Union of Equality
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Policymakers are made aware and are equipped with the knowledge and tools to integrate inclusive and intersectional perspectives into their policymaking, which strengthens their capacity to promote and protect democracy, fundamental rights, and EU values. Researchers gain insights on how to translate their findings on intersectional inequalities and democracy into actionable, evidence-based recommendations, enabling them to effectively inform policy and practice at local, regional, national, and EU levels. Innovative solutions developed under Horizon Europe and other EU-funding programmes empower equally all citizens, to participate in democratic processes and decision-making. Scope: This call topic aims to establish a Research and Innovation Network for a Union of Equality. The proposed network should bring together academic institutions, public bodies and civil society organisations to collaborate and promote the advancement of inclusive, equal, and resilient democratic societies. The proposed network should contribute to the development of a comprehensive approach to democracy, fostering a…
Grant$5.1MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchGovernment in transition – how governments change the way they work and prepare the civil service for the future
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes. Country government innovation info sheets, trends, inspiring good practices, the most innovative solutions recently developed or work in progress for next-generation governance and future-informed public decision making in EU Member States and Associated Countries (MS/AC). Policy recommendations for both EU level and MS/AC level actions on adopting new governance paradigms, and strategies for enhanced (technical and financial) support for internal government innovation efforts. Publication of lessons learned to enlighten government officials and the public about the often-invisible internal innovation strategies and impactful solutions in national governments. A comprehensive MOOC (Massive Online Open Course) for government officials with relevant examples and cases. Fostering of closer ties and collaboration among MS/AC (and any other relevant actors) to leverage national capabilities in innovative governance and maintain peer learning through e.g. relevant networks and knowledge exchange platforms. Scope: In an era characterized by numerous concurrent crises, accelerated technological…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchFostering cooperation and integration between SSH and STEM research and innovation in the EU
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Greater integration of SSH and STEM [1] research and innovation in R&I initiatives funded at EU level, national and/or regional level, as well as in R&I policies by promoting dialogue, mutual learning and strategic cooperation among research funders and policy makers in the EU. Developing and maintaining a new, common, comprehensive ‘Monitoring and Impact Evaluation Framework’ for SSH integration in current and future EU R&I initiatives. Enhanced facilitation of knowledge exploitation and support to the cooperation between projects and stakeholders, as well as R&I policies involved in projects and other types of cross-border networks dealing with SSH and STEM research and innovation. Scope: As mentioned in the Report ‘Align, Act, Accelerate: Research, Technology and Innovation to boost European Competitiveness’ [2] , European RD&I can provide a new understanding of and solutions to tackle societal challenges. Social sciences and humanities (SSH) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) improve the research activities, outcomes and impacts of Horizon Europe, because they enable a…
Grant$4MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchOpen topic: Strengthen Europe's social model and sustainable competitiveness through productivity
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: The concept of sustainable competitiveness is analysed taking into account the shifts in geopolitics, global trade patterns, as well as changes in climate, the environment (including biodiversity loss [1] ), technology and demography. Policymakers are provided with recommendations and innovative solutions, including a toolbox to boost Member States and Associated Countries (labour) productivity while ensuring high social and environmental standards and increasing competitiveness within planetary boundaries. Scope: The Future of European competitiveness report (also known as the Draghi report) [2] analysed and discussed the reason for European declining competitiveness, productivity and growth vis-a-vis its main competitors. A competitive economy is defined as an economy whose sustained rate of productivity is able to drive growth and, consequently, income and welfare. Both the economy and the European social model have to adapt to the great drivers of change, including demography, technology, global trade patterns, climate, and geopolitical shifts. From its side, the European social model is…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchCreative alliances: Fostering global partnerships in cultural policies and CCI innovation
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Deepened understanding and comprehensive evaluation of cultural policy models, creative industry ecosystems, and strategies for promoting creative industries across world regions, identifying good practices, success stories and replicable models. Innovative practices, policy approaches, shared challenges, and opportunities for cross-regional collaboration and global development of creative industries are identified. International equal partnerships and collaborations are established to exchange cultural policy approaches, boost creative industries, and/or support collaborative production or co-creation, facilitating knowledge transfer and capacity building among participating actors. Actionable strategies are available to policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders, for cross-regional collaborations that strengthen cultural ties, leverage creative industries, culture, and the arts as central to Global Europe, and support global culture- and creativity-driven innovation and resilience. Scope: This topic explores how international partnerships can strengthen cultural policies and creative…
Grant$4.3MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchCoordinated topic with India on recycling of EV batteries
→Expected Outcome: Battery recycling is of strategic importance for both Europe and India, not only to keep raw materials in the respective territories but also to reduce the environmental impact of the recycling process. R&I in this area has been identified as a priority by the EU-India Trade and Technology Council’s Working Group on Green and Clean Energy Technology to reinforce bilateral cooperation. Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Battery recyclers based in the EU and India benefit from of the improved sustainability, safety, and affordability of innovative recycling processes. Stakeholders on battery recycling based in the EU and India benefit from each other’s experience on recycling logistics, including the informal processes and supply chain constraints. The cooperation between EU and India key researchers, institutions and industries which are active in battery recycling is supported and strengthened. Scope: Projects are expected to build a jointly operated recycling pilot line on Indian soil demonstrating innovative recycling processes for lithium-ion batteries going beyond the current state of the art in terms of…
Grant$10.8MCloses 2026-09-15EUResearchProducing battery-grade materials for electrodes through sustainable processing and refining of raw materials or developing bio-based materials (BATT4EU Partnership)
→Expected Outcome: Proposals are expected to contribute to all following points: Significantly reduced EU dependency on imported battery-grade raw materials, specifically emerging technologies and carbon-based electrode materials. Established European value chains for next-generation battery materials, enhancing the EU's technological leadership and strategic autonomy. Scope: Proposals under this topic are expected to address all aspects for one of the following categories: 1. Sustainable Processing and Refining of next generation batteries-grade Material, delivering all of the following: Development and validation of innovative, environmentally friendly refining technologies for producing battery-grade metals and materials suitable for next-generation battery chemistries. This covers raw and advanced electrode materials for the components of sodium-ion batteries or beyond generation 3 [1] lithium-ion batteries Development of processes achieving significant reductions in carbon and ecological footprint, emissions of pollutants, energy usage, and chemical inputs. The selected processes should not negatively impact any of the aspects above or cause significant harm. Validation of…
Grant$8.2MCloses 2026-09-15EUResearchBiotech routes for valorisation of residual biomass
→Expected Outcome: Successful proposals will contribute to the implementation of the EU initiative on Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing and the EU Life Sciences Strategy as well as the updated EU Bioeconomy Strategy, the Clean Industrial Deal, the European Chemical Industry Action Plan, the upcoming EU Biotechnology and Circular Economy Acts. Projects results are expected to contribute to the following expected outcomes: Increased added value of residual biomass for biorefinery applications. Availability of a wider portfolio of sustainable bio-based products via industrial biotech. Robust, scalable and efficient biotech process(es) applicable to residual biomass. Scope: Diversifying biomass feedstock resources for bio-based products is key to contribute to resilience and strategic autonomy of bio-based operations. Industrial biotechnologies have showcased that they can play a key role to address residual biomass into valuable bio-based products. However, scaling up from research to demo scale requires addressing systemic and technical challenges. This entails the integration of adequate pretreatment and conversion processes, tailored to the targeted residual biomass and its…
Grant$8.1MCloses 2026-09-22EUResearchRESTORE Act Centers of Excellence Research Grants Program
→Treasury is publishing multiple funding opportunity notices for its RESTORE Act grant programs. This announcement applies only to the Centers of Excellence Research Grants Program.Trust Fund amounts are available to establish one or more Centers of Excellence through competitive subawards to nongovernmental entities and consortia in the Gulf Coast Region, including institutions of higher education. Funds may be used to establish Centers of Excellence, and by those Centers of Excellence for science, technology, and monitoring in one or more of the following disciplines as described in the RESTORE Act and Treasury’s implementing regulations at 31 CFR 34.704: 1) Coastal and deltaic sustainability, restoration, and protection, including solutions and technology that allow citizens to live in a safe and sustainable manner in a coastal delta in the Gulf Coast Region. 2) Coastal fisheries and wildlife ecosystem research and monitoring in the Gulf Coast Region. 3) Offshore energy development, including research and technology to improve the sustainable and safe development of energy resources in the Gulf of Mexico. 4) Sustainable and resilient growth, economic and commercial development in the Gulf Coast Region. 5) Comprehensive observation, monitoring, and mapping of the Gulf of Mexico.Eligible applicants issuing subawards to Center(s) of Excellence must establish and implement a program to monitor compliance with its subaward agreements.
Grant$14.5MCloses 2026-10-31USResearchSupply chain resilience CSA
→Expected Outcome: The action should establish a supply chain data platform, as a digital twin of the semiconductor supply chain, which should: • Gather secure, anonymized data shared by companies, coming from both upstream and downstream industries. • Possibly make use of an existing digital reference14 of the semiconductor supply chain (based on semantic web technologies). • Be managed by a trusted intermediary and hosted on a trusted data sharing infrastructure (potentially leveraging secure Multi-Party Computation). • Provide access to each participating company (providing its data) to its own data and aggregate anonymised data. The action should support the data gathering from the companies involved. The action should support a global mapping of the semiconductor value chain, as regards to the capabilities and the products of each main company and its supply chain relationships. The action should also support conducting stress tests of the supply chain and develop risk analysis of the EU semiconductor supply chain. Finally, the action needs to support issuing early warnings and recommendations for proactive measures to the Commission and Member States to avoid any potential…
Grant$2.3MCloses 2026-09-22EUResearchGeopolitical competition and socioeconomic resilience in CCAM: an innovation and policy roadmap for EU leadership (CCAM Partnership)
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to all the following expected outcomes: Assessment of Europe’s CCAM position in global competition, identifying strategic vulnerabilities, dependencies and opportunities across business models, supply chains, critical components, technological capabilities, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks, supported by advanced AI-driven analytics and innovation mapping tools. Stakeholder-driven, participatory future scenarios and strategic pathways that define Europe’s leading role in the evolving geopolitical, technological, and economic landscape of CCAM. These should be developed using advanced foresight methods ( e.g. qualitative scenarios, horizon scanning, technology roadmapping, etc.), complemented by iterative validation through a minimum of 3 dedicated Living Labs selected to represent diverse European regions, urbanisation levels, and governance capacities, ensuring a structured, robust, and anticipatory approach to long-term decision-making. A data-driven understanding of the socioeconomic effects of different CCAM deployment pathways, based on a quantified assessment across Member States and Associated Countries,…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-10-08EUResearchThe European Capital of Innovation Award iCapital Category HORIZON-EIC-2026-ICAPITAL
→Expected Impact: The European Capital of Innovation Awards aim to champion inspiring cases of municipality-enabled innovation flourishing in cities. The Awards are a prestigious recognition for city administrators who are courageous enough to open up their governance practices to experimentation, to boost innovation by all means, to be a role model for other cities, and to push the boundaries of technology for the benefit of their citizens. In addition to the monetary reward, the prize brings high visibility in the form of renewed public interest and increased media coverage. A European prize to the most innovative cities ecosystems. The award will raise the profile of the cities that have developed and implemented innovative policies; established frameworks that boost breakthrough innovation; enhanced the city attractiveness towards investors, industry, enterprises and talents; helped to open up connections and strengthen links with other cities, promoting the replication of best practices in the innovation field; enhanced citizens’ involvement in the decision-making process; and supported cities resilience. Expected Outcome: The European Capital of Innovation Awards aim to…
Grant$1.2MCloses 2026-08-04EUResearchBoosting creative startups for disruptive innovation
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Deepened knowledge of specific factors favouring the growth of creative startups [1] , in particular those with potential for disruptive innovation [2] and/or cross-sectorial innovation impacts, is made available and promoted to policymakers, investors, funding- and enterprise support bodies. Effective methods to favour the growth of creative startups, in particular those with potential for disruptive innovation and/or cross-sectorial innovation impacts, are developed, tested and put in practice by industry, investors, funding- and enterprise support bodies, and relevant decision makers. Examples of creative startups scaling up and/or engaging in disruptive innovation are made available, with a view to increase the visibility and recognition of the innovative power of Europe’s creative startups. In addition, proposals should contribute to at least one of the following expected outcomes, depending on the option chosen (a or b below): The effectiveness of the methods developed is demonstrated by at least one creative startup supported via the action becoming a scaleup [3] in a Member State or an…
Grant$6.9MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchElectoral integrity in the digital context
→Expected Outcome: Projects should contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: EU, national and local policymakers possess the necessary knowledge to inform the development of election regulations, standards and tools that address the use of digital technologies in elections and political campaigns, ensuring their integrity, inclusiveness, accessibility, fairness, transparency, and security. Organisations involved in electoral processes develop and implement guidelines for the responsible use of digital technologies in elections and political campaigns, aligned with EU and national regulations. Enhanced transparency and accountability in AI-powered political campaigns, achieved through requirements for AI system audits, data disclosure, transparency regarding algorithms and sources of Large Language Models (LLMs), and responsible AI development. Scope: The integrity of electoral processes in Europe is facing challenges in the digital age. The digital transformation of democratic processes has created new avenues for citizen engagement, but it also poses significant risks from disinformation to the integrity of electoral and other democratic processes. Concerns about…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-09-23EUResearchThe European Capital of Innovation Award Rising Innovator Category HORIZON-EIC-2026-PRIZE-ICAPITAL
→Expected Impact: The European Capital of Innovation Awards aim to champion inspiring cases of municipality-enabled innovation flourishing in cities. The Awards are a prestigious recognition for city administrators who are courageous enough to open up their governance practices to experimentation, to boost innovation by all means, to be a role model for other cities, and to push the boundaries of technology for the benefit of their citizens. In addition to the monetary reward, the prize brings high visibility in the form of renewed public interest and increased media coverage. A European prize to the most innovative cities ecosystems. The award will raise the profile of the cities that have developed and implemented innovative policies; established frameworks that boost breakthrough innovation; enhanced the city attractiveness towards investors, industry, enterprises and talents; helped to open up connections and strengthen links with other cities, promoting the replication of best practices in the innovation field; enhanced citizens’ involvement in the decision-making process; and supported cities resilience. Expected Outcome: The European Capital of Innovation Awards aim to…
Grant$577KCloses 2026-08-04EUResearchCOE for Technical Training and Human Performance
→COE for Technical Training and Human Performance
Grant$1MCloses 2026-09-30USResearchDemand-led innovation in security
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: A community of EU civil security practitioners with common user/functional needs for innovative technology solutions is identified, supported by an industrial base, in particular SMEs and Startups, to access the public procurement market and scale up their business; Procurers facilitated the commercialisation of the innovative solutions developed by their successful suppliers by providing them with first customer references for the validation and first pilot deployment; Tested and validated capacity of EU technology and industrial base to develop and produce technology prototypes that meet the diverse needs of the EU user community, regardless of their gender, age and ability; Improved delineation of the EU market (including demand and supply) for innovative civil security systems that can articulate alternative options for uptake in function of different industrialisation needs, commercialisation needs, acquisition needs, deployment needs and additional funding needs (beyond R&I funding). Scope: As past experience shows that pre-commercial procurement opens up the…
Grant$6.7MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchSecurity challenges of the green transition in urban und peri urban areas
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following outcomes: Identification and analysis of potential new security risks related to innovative technologies being deployed in the urban and peri-urban environments; Innovative and modern tools to identify and measure changes in urban and peri-urban areas caused by the green transition, insofar as they concern security and possible resilience approaches; Verification of measures countering potential safety and security risks, hazards and challenges arising in areas hosting green technologies; Contribution to building awareness and societal acceptance for the safety and security aspects of the green transition; Impacts of incidents involving new and emerging technologies are examined, including environmental and climate risks; Security, safety and resilience aspects of the supply chains of green technologies are analysed, including the technological and resource dependencies, and their aligning with the European strategic autonomy principle; Authorities and critical infrastructure operators are equipped with efficient evaluation methodologies for safe and secure deployment and integration of…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchClimate security and civil preparedness – new ways to develop pre- and post-crisis climate-change related scenarios for a more resilient Europe
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Identification and prioritization of climate security scenarios, assessing cascading and compounding risks across multiple sectors; Development and validation of advanced tools, technologies, and data-driven solutions for climate - and environmental - risk forecasting, crisis management, and adaptation, including risk analytical and assessment tools, weather alerts and forecasts; Development and validation of advanced tools and technologies to assess and monitor climate-induced disasters, also providing risk information on adaptation and risk reduction measures; Strengthened engagement with stakeholders, ensuring end-user involvement in defining requirements, testing, and validation of climate security solutions; Development and validation of new risk-management tools, technologies and data, closer to operational environment. Focus on local and regional risk-management and climate adaptation work should be prioritized; Pre-crisis analysis and post-crisis situational awareness in case of those disasters related to climate change (floods, fires, landslides, heat waves,…
Grant$5.2MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchImproving capabilities of law enforcement to counter climate-related challenges
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Police Authorities in Europe are equipped with specialised skills and technologies to counter an increase in illegal activities related to the climate change and the emergence of new (opportunistic) criminal patterns; Improved understanding by policymakers of the effects of climate change on law enforcement with a view of developing related effective European policies; improved knowledge of the impacts of climate change phenomena on social dynamics which can raise demands from public authorities to keep public order, moving beyond traditional perspectives about crime and terrorism. Scope: Global climate change is a megatrend expected to affect our societies over the next decade. As stated in “Germany: National interdisciplinary climate risk assessment” [1] , “We are already living in the climate crisis. This brings substantial security risks at global and national levels. (...) Anyone thinking about security needs to think about climate as well”. Climate change will affect European law enforcement in various ways [2] , [3] . Notably, it is likely to create new…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchAccessible and available travel facilitation
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Improved trusted, secure, and easier automated seamless facilitation for travel, border crossing through border crossing points (BCPs), and/or visa procedures with an integrated approach, minimized risk for bias, and accessible for all travellers minimising digital divides; Facilitated solutions with same approach adaptable by all European border control staff, in all conditions and border control points (BCPs); Reduced workload and improved safety, user experience and performance of practitioners’ staff involved in border management. Scope: Facilitation of travel and border crossings at border crossing points (BCPs) across the external EU borders went, and is further going, through developments thanks to updated procedures and regulatory frameworks and to innovative European technologies. From automated border control (ABC) gates to “no-gate” solutions and “seamless travel”, and with systems like the Entry-Exit System (EES), the Electronic Travel and Information Authorisation System (ETIAS), and the development of digital travel credentials and digital identity more in…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchMulti-hazard approach and cumulative / cascading impacts
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Integrated single-hazard systems into multi-hazard next generation predictive models to assess cascading effects (e.g., heatwave, floods, droughts, landslides, heavy rain) and interactions across meteorological, geophysical, and technological hazards; Enhanced hazard forecasting and response through research on model integration and platform interoperability; Development of holistic risk and resilience metrics to support multi-hazard prevention strategies, encompassing main physical, economic and social effects; Improvement of analysis models considering evolving vulnerability state, due to cascading and cumulative effects, through numerical simulations and experimental tests, possibly also supported by AI applications; Collected reliable data (same granularity and format) and ways to share and analyse it. The interoperability of all kinds of systems and information sharing is crucial, based on the need-to-know principle; Improved knowledge/experience-sharing from past emergencies to cope with future emergencies, also strengthening trans-national knowledge and data…
Grant$4.6MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchTargeted innovative capabilities for the resilience of critical entities to natural and human-induced disasters, including hybrid scenarios
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following outcomes: Improved understanding of systemic vulnerabilities of critical entities including physical, digital, operational, and cross-sectoral dimensions, in the face of compound natural and human-made disaster risks; Verification of existing measures countering potential NaTech risks; Demonstration of advanced technological solutions that enhance the ability of public and private providers of critical services to prepare for, respond to, and recover from complex, multi-hazard scenarios, including cascading or hybrid NaTech events; Deployment of common platforms and operational tools for dynamic risk assessment, decision support, between public authorities, first responders, and critical infrastructure operators during disruptive events; Strengthened multi-level and cross-border cooperation frameworks for integrated emergency and continuity management, ensuring seamless coordination across sectors, governance levels, and jurisdictions. Scope: Recent compound and cascading disasters have demonstrated the urgent need to reinforce the resilience of critical entities against a wide spectrum of…
Grant$5.2MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchOpen topic on driving innovation uptake of disaster risk solutions
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Accelerated adoption of high-TRL (Technology Readiness Level) disaster risk solutions across diverse sectors; Facilitated integration of innovative technologies into existing disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery frameworks; Promoted collaboration among stakeholders to scale proven solutions and enhance resilience; Addressed barriers to deployment, ensuring accessibility and usability of advanced DRS technologies; Strengthened evidence-based decision-making through demonstration and validation of high-TRL solutions in real-world scenarios; Promoted visibility of civil security research results. Scope: This topic aims to foster the widespread adoption and integration of high-TRL (Technology Readiness Level) disaster risk solutions (DRS) across multiple sectors, enhancing societal resilience to various hazards, including climate. The focus is on overcoming barriers to deployment, ensuring accessibility, and strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to drive innovation uptake. Projects should promote the adoption of high-TRL solutions by public and…
Grant$3.5MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchDesigning new ways of risk awareness and enhanced disaster preparedness
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Development of innovative tools and methodologies to monitor and improve risk awareness across society, integrating diverse community perspectives and leveraging advanced technologies; Development and uptake solutions and tools for the successful increase of safety culture and societal resilience of communities with concrete material, while considering also the inclusion and protection of marginalized populations in disaster scenarios; Creation of comprehensive, inclusive preparedness plans that involve all societal sectors and governance levels, ensuring coordinated and effective responses to disasters (such as from early warning to early action), including scarcity of resources; Establishment of a resilient, adaptive response framework that enhances collaboration between public authorities, communities, and private sectors, improving overall disaster resilience. Scope: Building on the whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach, this topic should contribute to enhancing risk awareness and disaster preparedness through the development of innovative tools,…
Grant$3.5MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchPrevention and mitigation of misuse of synthetic biology for bioterrorism purposes
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Increased understanding of European policy makers, research community, biotech companies, and relevant security practitioners of the threat of bioterrorism and of synthetic biology, including a thorough lawful analysis of what needs to be monitored in this context, what needs to be regulated and how; Awareness raised within the related scientific community how research in synthetic biology can be used for malicious purposes. Scope: The rising threat of bioterrorism is driven by recent scientific advancements, notably by growing accessibility of synthetic biology, genetic engineering, related commercial services and public databases, which in turn enhance their obtainability to non-state actors and individuals with malicious intentions. The proliferation of do-it-yourself biohacking and community laboratories, including gene editing and sequencing technology, dropping costs of equipment and increased simplicity of use may inadvertently facilitate knowledge and skills dissemination about biological threats and open new pathways for bioterrorism. Challenges in detection,…
Grant$3.5MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchInnovative approaches for the spatial design of neighbourhoods
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Demonstrated approaches aligned with NEB allow architects, designers, spatial planners and neighbourhood [1] decision makers to ensure an efficient and effective integration of user perspectives in the spatial design and/or transformation of public spaces. The demonstrated approaches deliver positive climate, environmental, social and cultural impact (such as addressing inequalities and enhancing social cohesion, community [1] resilience, civic engagement and a sense of security, ownership and belonging). Scope: The design of neighbourhood public spaces defines their functionality, but also other aspects such as power dynamics and sense of belonging. A fair green transition [1] calls for neighbourhood public spaces to be designed and managed for diverse users. Integrating new methods (such as research-by-design, security-by-design [4] , or life-centric design) in the architectural design and spatial planning of public space can help reflect on the values, practices and stakeholder relations that underpin the design of public spaces; rethink how public spaces are understood;…
Grant$5.8MCloses 2026-12-01EUResearchPublic procurement of innovation for security
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Last mile support to previous pre-commercial procurement (PCP) actions; Development and deployment of innovative security solutions to address emerging threats, including post-quantum cryptography to counter emerging quantum threats, improving the effectiveness and efficiency of public security services; Implementation of pilot projects and real-world testing, ensuring scalability and contributing to innovative security technologies. Scope: This Public Procurement of Innovative Solutions (PPI) initiative aims to advance the adoption of innovative civil security solutions. The focus is on solutions that have been partially demonstrated on a small scale and are nearly or already available in small quantities but have not yet been widely adopted or produced at scale. These solutions should demonstrate a clear market potential and be new to the procurers, their market segment, or the internal EU market, and must be relevant to procurers across EU Member States and/or Associated Countries. This PPI will specifically target innovative solutions that can address critical…
Grant$2.3MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchOpen topic on supporting disruptive technological innovations for civil security
→Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to some or all of the following expected outcomes: Improved preparedness, evidence-based approaches and response capabilities, along with a strengthened ability to mitigate risks from diverse threats, by integrating validated disruptive technologies into real-world operations; Accelerated adoption of innovative solutions by reducing barriers through rigorous testing and validation, fostering collaboration among public authorities, industry, and researchers to align technologies with real-world needs. Scope: This topic aims to support the integration of disruptive technological innovations [1] into civil security by strengthening research and innovation activities that enhance preparedness, response capabilities, and risk mitigation. A key focus is bridging the gap between early-stage, low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) research and applied security solutions, ensuring that emerging technologies are effectively transitioned into operational use. Proposals should prioritize disruptive solutions that address diverse security threats while improving the efficiency and effectiveness of civil security operations. Emphasis…
Grant$1.7MCloses 2026-11-05EUResearchOpportunities for the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA)
→Society’s most important advances have stemmed from those willing to think differently about what might be possible. ARIA is an R&D funding agency built to unlock scientific and technological breakthroughs that benefit everyone. Created by an Act of Parliament, and sponsored by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, ARIA funds breakthrough R&D in under explored areas to catalyse new paths to prosperity for the UK and the world.
Grant$13.4MCloses 2028-01-17GBResearchAHRC responsive mode: standard research grant (Grant)
→Apply for Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) standard research grant funding to support well-defined collaborative projects across the arts and humanities, in areas covered by our remit. You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for AHRC funding. There is no limit on the value of the grant, the value specified within the summary page is an example.
Grant$2MCloses 2027-03-31GBResearchAHRC responsive mode: working with Brazilian researchers (Grant)
→Apply for funding to work with overseas researchers in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. Submit a collaborative research grant application within the remit of Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and State of São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP). You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for AHRC funding. There is no limit on the value of the grant, the value specified within the summary page is an example.
Grant$2MCloses 2027-03-31GBResearchAHRC responsive mode: collaborate with researchers in Luxembourg (Grant)
→Apply for funding to work with overseas researchers in Luxembourg. Submit a collaborative research grant application within the remit of Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and Fonds National de la Recherche (FNR). You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for AHRC funding. There is no limit on the value of the grant, the value specified within the summary page is an example.
Grant$2MCloses 2027-03-31GBResearchAHRC responsive mode: UKRI NSF-SBE lead agency (Grant)
→Apply for funding to work with overseas researchers in the Unites States (US). Submit a collaborative research grant application within the remit of AHRC and US National Science Foundation, Social, Behavioural and Economic Sciences Directorate (NSF-SBE). You must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for AHRC funding. There is no limit on the value of the grant, the value specified within the summary page is an example.
Grant$2MCloses 2027-03-31GBResearchPushing the frontiers of environmental research (Grant)
→Apply for funding to pursue an adventurous, ambitious, curiosity-driven project in environmental research. You must be: • based at a UK research organisation eligible for Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) funding • in a role that meets the individual eligibility requirements There is no limit on the value of the grant, the value specified within the summary page is an example.
Grant$1.3MCloses 2027-03-31GBResearchCyberinfrastructure for Public Access and Open Science
→The Cyberinfrastructure for Public Access and Open Science (CI PAOS) program within the Office of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure (OAC) aims to catalyze new and transformative socio-technical partnerships supporting research data infrastructure ecosystems across d omains through early-stage collaborative activities between cyberinfrastructure researchers, scie ntists , research computing experts, data management experts , research labs , university libraries , and other communities of practice. The CI PAOS program supports the NSF Public Access Initiative by encouraging innovation across the CI ecosystem t o address accessibility, discoverability, reliability, reproducibility, sustainability, and utility of data products in alignment with NSF and national goals for public access and open science [ See: NSF Public Access Initiative , Office of Science and Technology Policy Memorandum on Ensuring Free, Immediate, and equitable Access to Federally funded Research , and Desirable Characteristics of Data Repositories for Federally Funded Research ] . CI PAOS builds on previous investments including those through Dear Colleague Letters NSF 19-069 , NSF 20 -068 , NSF 23-018 , and the FAIROS R esearch C oordination N etworks ( RCN ) p rogram solicitation ( NSF 22-553 ) . NSF accepts proposals pursuant to this Program Description year-round. From time to time , NSF may also issue Dear Colleague Letters to encourage proposals on special thema tic interests and opportunities related to this progra m . GUIDANCE TO POTENTIAL PROPOSERS A primary feature of successful CI PAOS projects is a robust, synergistic collaborative team comprising skills from across communities of science/engineering, research data science, and information science discipline(s) and expertise in leveraging connections between cyberinfrastructure researchers and providers and data specialists . Leveraging international collaboration to build shared norms and address c hallenges related to developing and implementing PAOS policies and practices is encouraged . Research and education in science and engineering benefit immensely from international cooperation. P roposals with an international component are also welcome [See: International Collaborations Opportunities at NSF ] . Proposers must target one or more of th e following themes/pathways: Competency Building, Capability Building, and /or Community Building. Competency Building Open s cience /engineering-driven collaboration . A socio -technical collaborative approach in addressing disciplinary , interdisciplinary , domestic, and international data lifecycle challenges is critical to informing and guiding the development of principles, requirements , and standards of a CI ecosystem that fosters pipelines to good data management and pathways to access. Propos al s should clearly describe the goals, challenges, and rationale for the proposed data science and engineering project and include an explanation of the potential for transformative research and broader impacts on the open science ecosystem [ See: U.S. NSF Broader Impacts ] . Successful proposals will also clearly identify utilization science scenarios and use cases . C apability Building Exploratory and pilot activities. <span class="TextRun SCXW92189242 BCX4" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" d
Grant$600KUSResearch