Budget
Funding is available up to €200,000 per project. In total, the call will fund up to 12 projects. Financial support is available only for eligible SMEs and startups.
Key dates and deadline
May 15, 2026 — Opening of the call July 15, 2026, 17:00 CEST — Submission deadline Up to 14 months — Implementation period for selected projects
Details
AID4SME Open Call 2 supports SMEs and startups developing innovative AI and data-driven solutions with applicability in industrial contexts and real market challenges. Selected projects will be able to pilot their proposed solutions, with support for validation, development and scaling. The programme offers: • Funding for innovative companies to pilot their solutions • Access to early customers • Support in overcoming market entry barriers • Domain knowledge and expert advice for scaling • Training, coaching and mentoring to maximise impact and growth • Access to the AID4SME Community of Practice and a wide network of professionals Projects may focus on data collection, creation of insights, decision support, automation and comprehensive insights into industrial needs.
Eligibility
Single legal entities or consortia of up to two entities may apply. SMEs and startups may apply alone or lead a consortium. Only SMEs and startups are eligible for financial support. Each entity may submit only one application. The following organisations may participate as a second partner in a consortium: • Industry organisations providing use cases and high-TRL playgrounds for testing and validation • Integrators or engineering service providers supporting solution integration • Research institutions, research infrastructures, non-profit organisations, charitable scientific foundations and public research centres
Additional information
The call funds projects tailored to real-world innovation challenges, with a focus on developing AI and data-driven solutions with practical applicability. Selected companies become part of the AID4SME Community of Practice and can benefit from collaboration, networking and visibility opportunities within the ecosystem. Selected projects have up to 14 months to implement their solutions.
How to apply?
https://aid4sme.eu/open-call-2/