Developing and demonstrating core technologies for Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0 (IA) (Virtual worlds Partnership)

Overview

Funding for the development and demonstration of core technologies enabling next-generation Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0, focusing on immersive XR, real-time interaction, and interoperability. Targets consortia advancing human-centric, AI-driven, and Telco-Cloud-to-Edge integrated solutions for industrial and societal applications.

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: €23,500,000 per project.
• Funding rate: Not specified (standard Horizon Europe rules apply).
• Project duration: Typically 36 months (other durations possible).

What Is Funded

• Development of XR and immersive technologies (e.g., multi-modal haptics, low-latency interaction, spatial computing).
• Generative AI for personalized and natural user experiences.
• Asset and scene creation for highly detailed, human-centric environments.
• Interoperability standards and common data formats for seamless cross-platform interaction.
• Integration with Telco-Cloud-to-Edge Continuum (e.g., Digital Twins, 3C pilots).
• Demonstrators in real-world industrial/societal scenarios, aligned with Horizon Europe’s 3C pilot infrastructure.
• SSH (Social Sciences and Humanities) contributions to enhance societal impact.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Starting TRL: 4 (technology validated in lab).
• Target TRL: 6 (technology demonstrated in relevant environment).

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-01-14.
• Deadline: 2026-04-14T22:00:00Z.

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the [Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal).
• Evaluation criteria: Standard Horizon Europe thresholds (excellence, impact, implementation).
• Indicative timeline: Evaluation and grant agreement signing per Horizon Europe General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting: Standard Horizon Europe requirements (technical, financial, dissemination).
• Dissemination: Public sharing of results, including demonstrators and standards contributions.
• Collaboration: Synergies with related Horizon Europe actions (e.g., HORIZON-CL4-2027-04-DATA-08).

Geographic Scope & Language

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

Notes

• Exclusions: Entities controlled by non-eligible countries or high-risk telecom suppliers may face restrictions unless approved guarantees are provided.
• Strategic focus: Projects must avoid technological dependency on non-EU sources and align with EU autonomy goals.
• Co-programmed: Implements the European Partnership on Virtual Worlds.