Next-Generation AI Agents for Real-World Applications in the Apply AI sectors (RIA) (Partnership in AI, Data and Robotics)
EU research call for the development and testing of autonomous AI agents with advanced planning, memory, and multimodal capabilities for real-world use cases in the strategic environment Apply AI. Submission deadline: 15.04.2026.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
Funding of research and development projects for the design, prototype development, and validation of next-generation AI agents based on large AI models that can autonomously plan tasks, utilize tools, and collaborate with other agents in real-world sectors.
Eligible expenses
- Personnel expenses
- Material costs
- Travel expenses
- Subcontractor services
Eligible to apply
- Companies
- Founders
- Educational Institutions
- Non-profit Organizations
- Public Institutions
Funding requirements
- Legal form and registration in EU member states or associated countries
- Consortium of at least three independent partners in different countries
- Compliance with ethical and safety requirements according to Horizon Europe regulations
Documents required for application
- Application form
- Technical description
- Budget plan
- Resumes of project leaders
- Proof of legal representation
Evaluation criteria
- Degree of innovation and scientific excellence
- Methodological quality and work plan
- Relevance and feasibility
- Expected impacts and dissemination measures
- Quality and efficiency of project implementation
Description
Next-Generation AI Agents for Real-World Applications in the Apply AI Sectors (HORIZON-CL4-2026-05-DIGITAL-EMERGING-02) supports the design, prototype development, and validation of autonomous AI agents. These agents are to be based on large AI models and, through advanced planning and memory structures as well as multimodal capabilities, independently solve complex, multi-step tasks in real-world environments. Research and innovation projects within the framework of the “Co-programmed European Partnership on AI, Data and Robotics” (ADRA) are funded, aiming to achieve a significant leap in the reliability, robustness, and interaction capabilities of multiple agents. Expected outcomes include novel multi-agent frameworks, interoperable protocols for cooperative task execution, and scalable methods for memory management and tool integration. The projects contribute to European strategic autonomy by providing AI agents deployable in areas such as data analytics, automation, robotics, and Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).
The call targets consortia of at least three independent partners from EU Member States or associated countries, including companies, start-ups, universities, research institutions, as well as non-profit and public entities. SMEs are explicitly addressed. Up to €19 million in funding (100% funding rate) can be awarded. Eligible costs include personnel and material expenses, travel costs, and subcontracting services. A Gender Equality Plan obligation for public and research institutions ensures equal opportunities, while accompanying ethics and security reviews guarantee compliance with Horizon Europe rules. Project proposals must be submitted exclusively via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal by 15 April 2026. Required documents include, among others, the application form, technical description, budget plan, CVs of project leaders, and proof of legal representation.