International cooperation in AI (IA)

Overview

Supports international cooperation to adapt and deploy AI solutions in low- and middle-income countries, focusing on local innovation hubs, operational testing, and sustainable socio-economic impact in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.

Who Can Apply

Consortia involving entities from eligible EU and associated countries, including research organizations, SMEs, public bodies, and innovation hubs in low- and middle-income countries (particularly Africa).

Funding Details

• Maximum funding per project: 44,000,000 EUR
• Funding type: Lump sum grant
• Co-funding requirements: Not specified

What Is Funded

• Adaptation and optimization of AI solutions for local needs using local data
• Establishment of Living Labs in low-income countries for co-creation, testing, and validation of AI-driven solutions
• Large-scale deployment of AI solutions in operational environments
• Strengthening local innovation ecosystems and talent pipelines
• Addressing global challenges in climate, agriculture, biodiversity, health, education, and humanitarian needs
• Synergies with EU initiatives like the International Digital Strategy, AI Continent Action Plan, and Global Gateway

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 7 to 9 (system prototype demonstration in operational environment to actual system proven in operational environment)

Key Dates

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

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal
• Proposal must adhere to page limits and layout described in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes

Post-Award Obligations

• Beneficiaries must notify the granting authority before transferring ownership or granting an exclusive license of results
• Granting authority may object to such transfers or licenses up to four years after the end of the action

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
• Application language: English

Notes

• Proposals must align with EU’s emphasis on sustainable and resilient global partnerships, responsible AI development, and human-centric innovation
• Synergies with existing EU initiatives (e.g., GenAI for Africa, Digital for Development Hub) are encouraged
• Restrictions may apply for the protection of European communication networks