AI integration in CCSI work practice: catalysing innovation and competitiveness

Overview

Funding for projects that integrate AI into cultural and creative sectors and industries (CCSI) to enhance innovation, competitiveness, and inclusivity. Targets consortia developing scalable AI tools, pilots, or ethically driven solutions tailored to CCSI needs, with a focus on accessibility, cultural diversity, and sustainable business models.

Who Can Apply

Consortia comprising representatives from CCSI (e.g., artists, cultural organizations, creative industries) and technology developers. Eligible applicants include legal entities from EU Member States, associated countries, and select non-EU countries with specific funding provisions.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €6,000,000 per project.
• Funding type: Lump sum.
• Financial support to third parties: Up to €60,000 per third party (grants only).

What Is Funded

• Assessment of AI readiness in CCSI, identification of adoption barriers, and development of strategic guidance for AI integration.
• Creation of scalable, affordable AI tools and training materials tailored to CCSI needs, including smaller or less-resourced actors.
• Pilots for AI-enabled products/services addressing gaps in CCSI value chains or fostering cultural/linguistic diversity and accessibility.
• Solutions prioritizing ethical AI, inclusivity (e.g., for persons with disabilities, youth, older people), and new revenue streams for CCSI.
• Alignment with existing initiatives (e.g., AI Continent Action Plan, EIT KIC Culture and Creativity) and use of EU digital infrastructures (e.g., ECCCH, European High-Performance-Computing network).

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4–6 (validation in lab to demonstration in relevant environment).

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-05-11.
• Deadline: 2026-09-22.

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Page limit: 50 pages for Part B of the application (Innovation Action lump sum).
• Mandatory: Detailed budget table template.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting: Standard Horizon Europe requirements (details in Model Grant Agreement).
• Ownership/licensing: Granting authority may object to transfers or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must engage with CCSI stakeholders and technology developers.
• Proposals must address either (or both) of two options: (1) scalable AI pilots for CCSI value chains or (2) inclusive, ethically driven AI solutions for diversity and accessibility.
• Financial support to third parties is permitted for pilot development.