Networking and Future Photonics Strategy (CSA) (Photonics Partnership)

Overview

Supports coordination and strategic development of the European photonics ecosystem, including roadmap creation, stakeholder engagement, and alignment of regional, national, and EU research agendas. Targets consortia of industry, academia, and public bodies active in photonics innovation.

Who Can Apply

Consortia comprising legal entities (e.g., research institutions, universities, SMEs, large enterprises, public bodies) from eligible countries. Participation of non-EU/non-associated countries may be subject to specific funding provisions.

Funding Details

Maximum funding per project: €23,500,000. Funding rate and budget allocation depend on the specific activities and consortium composition, as outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme.

What Is Funded

• Development and updating of the European Photonics Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) and roadmaps.
• Coordination and monitoring of Partnership-funded projects, including KPI tracking and corrective actions.
• Stakeholder engagement, outreach, and alignment with national/regional photonics strategies.
• Communication and advocacy for photonics as a key enabling technology for EU priorities (e.g., digital/green transitions).
• Collaboration with other European Partnerships and financial institutions to improve access to innovation financing.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

No explicit Technology Readiness Level (TRL) range specified. Focus is on strategic coordination, governance, and ecosystem development rather than technology development.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-01-14
• Deadline: 2026-04-14

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 templates outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Notification to the granting authority (DG-CNECT and HaDEA) before transferring ownership or granting exclusive licenses of project results, with potential objections up to four years post-action.
• Compliance with Horizon Europe reporting and dissemination requirements, including monitoring of Key Performance Indicators.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries include EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries, and select non-associated countries with specific funding provisions. Applications must be submitted in English.

Notes

• Proposals must address all scope requirements, including governance, roadmap development, and stakeholder engagement.
• Restrictions apply for the protection of European communication networks.
• Intellectual property and licensing conditions are subject to specific provisions outlined in the Horizon Europe Model Grant Agreement.