Grand Challenge on Quantum Sensors for Inertial Navigation

The Grand Challenge on Quantum Sensors for Inertial Navigation is an EU-funded Coordination and Support Action (CSA) with a mono-beneficiary approach, targeting SMEs in the field of quantum sensors for inertial navigation. Over an approximately six-month project period from January to April 2026, a single, independent SME will be selected to develop technical, industrial, and financial roadmaps, conduct benchmarking analyses of commercial prototypes, as well as develop risk assessments and road-to-market strategies. Close collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB) ensures alignment with investor and market requirements. Eligible costs include personnel expenses, consumables and operating resources, as well as travel and accommodation expenses. Retrospective costs and real estate acquisitions are excluded. The EU funding rate is 100%, with a funding amount of up to €500,000.

For a successful application, submission by a single SME as a mono-beneficiary CSA is required, which is established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe associated country and can demonstrably provide expertise in research & innovation as well as benchmarking of quantum sensor prototypes. The selection process will equally weigh the excellence of the methodology, the impact on European technological sovereignty, and the quality and efficiency of implementation as evaluation criteria. Timely submission of the standard application and evaluation forms, the project description, and the financial plan is required by 15 April 2026, 17:00 Brussels time. The call is part of the Horizon Europe work programme DIGITAL (HORIZON-CL4-2026-04-DIGITAL-EMERGING-11).