Innovative AI methods and technologies for the process industries (RIA) (Processes4Planet and AI, Data and Robotics partnerships)

The EU-wide funding call "Innovative AI Methods and Technologies for the Process Industry" is aimed at companies, start-ups, educational, public benefit, and public institutions in all EU member states as well as associated countries. Within the framework of the co-programmed partnerships Processes4Planet and AI, Data and Robotics, research and innovation are supported for the development of novel AI-driven solutions in material and process development as well as optimized plant control. The goal is to increase the efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness of the process industry through better products and processes, shortened time-to-market, early error detection, and improved working conditions. Applicants must collaborate in consortia of at least three independent legal entities from different countries. The funding amount per project ranges between EUR 4 and 6 million with a funding rate of 100%, covering personnel costs, material and travel expenses, as well as subcontractor services (investments in real estate and retrospective costs are excluded).

The submission deadlines are March 17, 2026, and October 13, 2026 (both at 5 p.m. Brussels time); project start is possible from December 16, 2025. The application must include a project description, financing plan, CVs of key personnel, as well as registration and validation documents (PIC). Innovation content, sustainability aspects, and relevance to the target group play a central role in the evaluation. The assessment procedure evaluates excellence, expected impact, and quality of implementation. Interested research institutions, start-ups, and SMEs wishing to test and demonstrate AI methods in real production processes will find a unique opportunity here to comprehensively fund their innovation projects with EU funds while simultaneously contributing to the future viability of the European process industry.