European Commission allocates €307 million to AI and digital technologies under the Horizon Europe programme

The European Commission has announced two new calls for proposals under the Digital, Industry and Space cluster of the Horizon Europe Work Programme, with a combined budget of €307.3 million. The funding is intended to support research and innovation in AI and other emerging digital technologies that are seen as strategically important for the European Union (EU).

The larger share of the funding, €221.8 million, is dedicated to projects focused on trustworthy AI, advanced data services, and strengthening the EU’s strategic autonomy. Supported activities include the development and deployment of AI systems under the Commission’s Apply AI Strategy, as well as research in robotics, quantum technologies, photonics, and virtual worlds. More than €40 million within this call is earmarked for the Open Internet Stack Initiative, which seeks to support European digital commons by funding both end user applications and core technology layers.

A second call, with a budget of €85.5 million, targets open strategic autonomy in digital and emerging technologies and raw materials. This funding will support work on next-generation AI agents, robotics for industrial and service uses, and the development of new materials with enhanced sensing capabilities.

According to the Commission, the calls are designed to promote sustainable, human-centric innovation while reinforcing Europe’s leadership in key digital sectors. The initiative aligns with the EU’s broader Competitiveness Compass, which aims to strengthen long-term economic resilience through investment in critical technologies.

The funding opportunities are open to a wide range of applicants, including businesses, public authorities, research institutions, and other organisations from EU member states and eligible partner countries. Applications can be submitted until 15 April 2026, with further details available through the EU’s Funding and Tenders Portal.