“Artistic intelligence” : harnessing the power of the arts to address complex challenges, enhance soft skills and boost innovation and competitiveness

Overview

Funding for projects that explore the intersection of arts, science, and technology to address societal challenges, enhance soft skills, and drive innovation. Targets consortia involving artists, researchers, and creative professionals to develop methodologies, networks, and pilot demonstrators.

Who Can Apply

Consortia including artists, creative professionals, research organizations, public/private sector entities, and representatives of creative industries. Participation from non-EU/non-associated countries may be eligible under specific conditions.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €6,000,000
• Funding form: Lump sum
• Financial support to third parties (e.g., artists/creatives) permitted up to €60,000 per grant.

What Is Funded

• Development of guidance, toolkits, and methodologies for art-science-technology collaborations.
• Case studies and evidence on the impact of such collaborations on innovation and societal challenges.
• Establishment or strengthening of networks for artist engagement in interdisciplinary projects.
• Focus 1: Frameworks and pilots for integrating arts to enhance soft skills in education, public administration, and corporate sectors.
• Focus 2: At least three low-TRL pilot demonstrators assessing emerging technologies (e.g., immersive arts, AI, spatial computing) through artist engagement.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Focus 2 only: Pilots must target low technology readiness levels (TRL).

Key Dates

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

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Mandatory detailed budget table and 50-page limit for Part B of the application.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting and dissemination of project outcomes.
• Potential transfer of ownership or licensing restrictions for up to 4 years post-project.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States and associated countries (specific non-EU/non-associated countries may qualify under certain conditions).
• Language: English.

Notes

• Consortia must include artists or creative professionals.
• Proposals must select either Focus 1 (soft skills) or Focus 2 (emerging technology pilots).
• Involvement of the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) is encouraged.