Apply AI: AI-Driven Robotics for Industry: Enabling System Integration and Adoption (IA) (Partnership in AI, Data and Robotics)

Overview

Funding for consortia developing AI-driven robotics integration frameworks and tools to accelerate industrial adoption, with a focus on modularity, interoperability, and scalability for SMEs and larger manufacturers.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities established in EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, or associated countries (Canada, Israel, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Switzerland, United Kingdom). Entities controlled by non-eligible countries may participate only with approved guarantees demonstrating no negative impact on EU strategic interests.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €44,000,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (standard Horizon Europe rules apply)
• Co-funding: Not explicitly required but may apply under Horizon Europe guidelines

What Is Funded

• Development of modular, interoperable integration frameworks for AI-driven robotics, validated through at least three real-world industrial pilots.
• Creation of an "Integration Kit" with ready-to-use modules, configuration templates, and tools for system integrators and end-users.
• High-fidelity digital twin testbeds for training, validation, and verification of robotic solutions.
• Reusable datasets and benchmark tasks compliant with EU data protection regulations.
• Step-by-Step Adoption Guides for SMEs, including regulatory compliance and certification pathways.
• Contributions to open standards and certification guidance for AI-driven robotics.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• TRL range: 7–9 (system prototype demonstration in operational environment to actual system proven in operational conditions).

Key Dates

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

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Horizon Europe Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Evaluation follows standard Horizon Europe criteria (excellence, impact, implementation).

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, and associated countries (Canada, Israel, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Switzerland, United Kingdom).
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must allocate tasks for cohesion activities with the European Partnership on AI, Data, and Robotics (ADRA).
• Participation of entities controlled by non-eligible countries requires pre-approved guarantees to protect EU strategic interests.
• Emphasis on "Green AI" (energy-efficient models/hardware) and carbon-aware deployment strategies.
• Use of existing robotics resources (e.g., EuroCORE repository, AI-on-Demand Platform) is mandatory to avoid duplication.