MCP on Innovative and Connected Public Administrations

Overview

Supports cross-border collaboration among public administrations to develop and test interoperability assets for digital public services, aligning with the EU’s Digital Decade goals. Targets Member States and associated countries working together to improve data exchange and address interoperability challenges.

Who Can Apply

Public administrations, public sector bodies, and entities mandated by public authorities in EU Member States or associated countries. Consortia involving multiple eligible entities are encouraged.

Funding Details

Total budget: EUR 12 million (indicative). Maximum grant per project: EUR 2 million. Funding rate: up to 100% of eligible costs for public sector applicants; up to 50% for private entities where applicable.

What Is Funded

Development and testing of interoperability assets for cross-border digital public services, including:

• Solutions for seamless data exchange and common data standards.
• Implementation of EU policies on AI and Data Spaces in public administration.
• Scaling up innovative solutions to improve interoperability and user-focused digital services.
• Collaboration frameworks to enhance cross-border service delivery.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must demonstrate a clear pathway to implementation and scalability. No explicit TRL range specified, but solutions should be beyond conceptual stages and ready for testing or deployment in real-world public administration contexts.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-01-19
• Deadline: 2026-05-18T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the [Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal). Proposals must adhere to page limits and formats outlined in the call documents.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting on project progress, financials, and outcomes as per the Model Grant Agreement.
• Dissemination of results to relevant stakeholders and contribution to the Interoperable Europe Agenda.
• Compliance with EU financial and operational regulations.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: EU Member States and associated countries (e.g., Horizon Europe associated countries). Application language: English.