Virtual worlds test beds

Overview

Funding for the development and validation of virtual worlds test beds in industrial or societal applications, such as manufacturing, healthcare, or education. Targets consortia capable of deploying interoperable, real-world-ready immersive technologies across multiple EU countries.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., businesses, research organizations, public bodies) established in eligible countries. At least three independent entities from three different Member States or associated countries must participate.

Funding Details

• Total budget: EUR 20 million (EUR 10 million per test bed).
• Funding rate: Up to 70% of eligible costs for for-profit entities; up to 100% for non-profit entities.
• Co-funding: Required for for-profit applicants (minimum 30%).

What Is Funded

• Establishment of sector-specific test beds for virtual worlds, extended reality, and immersive technologies.
• Focus areas:

- Industrial applications (e.g., manufacturing, construction, industrial design). - Societal applications (e.g., education, training, cultural heritage, healthcare, public administration).

• Activities include testing, experimentation, integration, and validation of mature technologies in real-world environments, with emphasis on interoperability and transferability.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): 4 to 6.
• Solutions must have been previously tested in lab environments and be ready for real-world validation.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2025-11-03
• Deadline: 2026-03-02

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must include a detailed Part B application form, adhering to page limits and layout requirements.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting on progress, financials, and outcomes as per the Model Grant Agreement.
• Dissemination of results, including contributions to EU regulatory sandboxes for virtual worlds.

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.