Accelerating Physical AI: Embodied Intelligence for the Next Frontier of AI-Powered Robotics

The two-stage EU-wide grant competition aims to promote pioneering Physical AI prototypes for real-world deployment in robotics, thereby sustainably strengthening Europe’s technological sovereignty. Innovatively developed systems should learn autonomously, interact safely, and deliver reliable results in complex environments. The full funding rate of 100% supports start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as research institutions and universities in scaling disruptive solutions at TRL 4 level and beyond. Project ideas can be submitted until 26 February 2026, provided they already demonstrate laboratory-validated prototypes, suitable testing infrastructure, and a letter of intent from an integrator or end user. With a funding amount of €300,000 per project, aspects such as technological novelty, data governance, ethical risks, and safety requirements are to be considered.

Concepts will be awarded that distinguish themselves through outstanding scaling and commercialization potential, as well as solid commitment from end users and integrators. Evaluation is based on four main criteria: degree of novelty and applicability, risk assessment including data governance, participation of relevant stakeholders, and economic feasibility. Applicants must include a detailed project and market analysis, a business plan, and evidence of infrastructure accessibility. The first phase focuses on prototype validation and benchmarking, while the second phase involves implementing robust pilot installations in real-world use cases. By combining scientific excellence with industrial relevance, this call makes a key contribution to the digital transformation and competitiveness of the European robotics sector.