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€300+ Million for AI: New EU Funding for Research and Innovation

The European Commission has launched two new funding calls under Horizon Europe - with a total budget of €307.3 million for AI and key digital technologies.

€300+ Million for AI: New EU Funding for Research and Innovation
NewsletterFebruary 25, 20263 min read

What to expect in this issue

  • Deep Dive - €300+M investment in AI by the EU
  • StartMatch News - Everything new on our website
  • FörderRadar - New and expiring grants

🤿 Deep Dive: EU Invests €300+ Million in AI & Key Digital Technologies

In our Deep Dive, we regularly present a financing or funding topic in detail. Today:

The European Commission launched two new funding calls in early January 2026 under the Horizon Europe program, with a total budget of €307.3 million for research and innovation in artificial intelligence and related technologies.

What Is Being Funded?

The funds are divided into two major funding areas:

1. €221.8 Million for Trustworthy AI & Digital Services

Focus on the development of trustworthy AI systems, innovative data services, and strengthening Europe's strategic digital autonomy.

Funded projects include areas such as AI, robotics, quantum or photonics technologies, and virtual worlds.

A portion (over €40 million) is reserved for the Open Internet Stack Initiative. This means: both application-level and foundational technology development to strengthen European digital infrastructure.

2. €85.5 Million for Strategic Autonomy & Future Technologies

Funding for projects on next-gen AI agents, industrial and service-oriented robotics, and new materials with enhanced sensor capabilities.

The goal is to strengthen Europe's technological sovereignty, meaning less dependence on non-European providers.

Who Can Apply & Until When?

Eligible applicants include companies, research institutions, public administrations, and other organizations from EU member states and associated countries.

The submission deadline is April 15, 2026.

Why Is This Relevant?

For companies and research teams working at the intersection of AI, robotics, data services, and digital systems, these are attractive opportunities to finance larger, cooperative projects.


🗞️ StartMatch News: Everything New on Our Website

In the hectic day-to-day business, some things unfortunately fall by the wayside. For us, it was the redesign and expansion of our website.

We've now changed that 😊

Our new website is live! At www.startmatch.ai you can now find everything about StartMatch:

  • how we work
  • what our tool can specifically do
  • which packages and prices are available
  • answers to the most important questions about the research premium

You can also book a free consultation with us directly and easily.


📡 FörderRadar: New and Expiring Grants

Important news about grants in Austria.

These Grants Are Open for Submission

Praktika für Schüler:innen 2026
Open since 26.01.2026 - Submission deadline 31.12.2026

These Grants Are Expiring Soon

FORTE Ausschreibung 2025
Submission deadline only until 06.03.2026

Expedition Zukunft START 2025/2
Submission deadline only until 17.03.2026


Best of luck with your projects!

Best regards,
Robert & your StartMatch Team 👋

Do you have questions? We're happy to help!Robert Kopka

Robert Kopka

Founder & CEO

Free Consultation
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