AI4Creatives Support Platform: embracing a fair AI revolution

Overview

Funding for the development of a European virtual AI support platform to help cultural and creative sectors and industries (CCSI) adopt ethical, transparent, and EU-compliant AI solutions. Targets consortia of CCSI professionals, AI tech companies, researchers, and startups to enhance innovation, collaboration, and competitiveness.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities, including:

• Cultural and creative sector organizations (e.g., SMEs, micro-enterprises, non-profits)
• AI technology companies and startups
• Research institutions and universities
• Ethical AI experts and rights management infrastructures
• Public bodies and industry associations

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €5,000,000
• Funding type: Lump sum
• Funding rate: Not specified (standard Horizon Europe rules apply)
• Total budget: Not specified

What Is Funded

• Development and operation of a European virtual AI support platform for CCSI, including:

- Shared services, expertise, and capacity-building tools - Frameworks, standards, and best practices for ethical AI integration - Cross-sector collaboration (e.g., with AI Factories, ECCCH, data spaces) - Copyright infrastructure for AI-driven content licensing - Training programs and education frameworks - Pilot testing and sustainability planning

• Synergies with existing EU initiatives (e.g., AI Continent Action Plan, GenAI4EU, Creative Europe)

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• TRL range: 4–6 (technology validated in lab to demonstrated in relevant environment)

Key Dates

• Open date: 2027-05-12
• Deadline: 2027-09-22

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the [Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal)
• Standard Horizon Europe application forms and evaluation criteria apply

Post-Award Obligations

• Lump-sum reporting: Financial and technical reporting as per Horizon Europe rules
• Sustainability plan: Development of a business model ensuring long-term platform viability
• Dissemination: Sharing best practices, standards, and project outcomes with stakeholders
• Pilot testing: Operational validation of the platform before project conclusion

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries (Norway, Iceland, UK, Switzerland), and select non-associated countries with specific provisions
• Application language: English

Notes

• Projects must align with EU values (transparency, ethical AI, cultural diversity, equitable access).
• Consortia must include diverse stakeholders (CCSI, tech providers, researchers, ethicists).
• Synergies with EIT KIC Culture and Creativity and other EU-funded projects are required.
• Proposals must address structural challenges (e.g., skill gaps, IP rights, bias mitigation).