Creative Innovation Lab

Overview

Funding for cross-sectoral innovation projects that design, develop, or disseminate tools, models, or solutions for the audiovisual sector and at least one of the following: music, books, or museums. Targets organizations aiming to enhance competitiveness, environmental sustainability, or digital adaptation through AI, virtual worlds, or data-driven solutions.

Who Can Apply

Private and public entities, including SMEs, startups, tech companies, audiovisual and cultural organizations, business incubators, and accelerators. Consortia are encouraged, particularly those demonstrating cross-sectoral collaboration between the audiovisual sector and music, books, or museums.

Funding Details

• Total budget: Not specified.
• Grant amount: Not specified.
• Funding rate: Not specified.
• Co-funding: Financial support to third parties is permitted for grants.

What Is Funded

Projects must address one or more of the following topics:

• Virtual worlds for promoting European content, audience renewal, or industry competitiveness.
• Innovative business tools (e.g., AI, big data, blockchain, NFTs) for rights management, monetization, data analysis, or audience development.
• "Greener" practices to reduce environmental impact in line with the European Green Deal and New European Bauhaus.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

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

Key Dates

• Open date: 2025-10-22T22:00:00Z
• Deadline: 2026-04-22T22:00:00Z
• Evaluation period: May–September 2026
• Notification to applicants: October 2026
• Grant agreement signature: January 2027

Application Process (High-Level)

• Process: Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Application form: Standard CREA MEDIA form available in the Submission System.
• Page limits: Described in Part B of the application form.

Post-Award Obligations

Not explicitly stated.

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.
• Language: English.

Notes

• Applicants must consult their domestic Creative Europe Desk to verify eligibility and relevance before submission.
• Projects must demonstrate cross-sectoral cooperation and strategies for sustainability, gender balance, inclusion, and diversity.
• Ineligible activities include multimedia art projects, promotional works, e-learning platforms, live recordings, and content production costs.