Advanced integrated photonic devices for extended features and ultra-low power consumption (RIA) (Photonics Partnership)

Overview

Funding for research and innovation in advanced integrated photonic devices and circuits, targeting enhanced functionality, performance, and ultra-low power consumption for applications in digital, automotive, industrial, health, and security sectors. Intended for consortia or organizations capable of demonstrating system-level advancements in photonic technologies.

Who Can Apply

Legal entities established in EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, associated countries, OECD countries, and MERCOSUR countries. Participation is restricted to entities not directly or indirectly controlled by non-eligible countries or entities. Consortia are expected, though single applicants may apply if justified.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: 5,000,000 EUR per project. Funding is provided as a lump sum, with eligible costs determined by the Horizon Europe lump sum model.

What Is Funded

Research and innovation activities focused on integrated photonic devices and circuits, addressing at least two of the following:

• Enhanced spectral purity, wavelength coverage, output power, and noise characteristics.
• Increased modulation or detection speeds, improved signal-processing capabilities, and integration of novel materials (e.g., thin-film LiNbO3, BTO, graphene, silicon carbide, phase change materials, TMDCs).
• Miniaturized, high-complexity photonic circuits (e.g., multilayer photonics, chiplets, electronics-photonics integration).
• Reduction of power consumption through improved electrical-to-optical conversion, lower optical losses, and low-power circuit actuation.

Proposals must demonstrate system-level impact in representative configurations for one or more application domains.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-11-16
• Deadline: 2027-03-17

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage application process via the Horizon Europe Submission System. Proposals must adhere to page limits and layout requirements outlined in the Application Form.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, associated countries, OECD countries, and MERCOSUR countries. Applications must be submitted in English.

Notes

• Participation is restricted to entities not controlled by non-eligible countries or entities.
• Proposals must align with the co-programmed European Partnership on photonics.
• Lump sum funding model applies; detailed budget tables are required as part of the application.