Secure PQC implementations, Cryptanalysis and Post-quantum Digital Trust

The Horizon Europe call “Secure PQC implementations, Cryptanalysis and Post-quantum Digital Trust” is aimed at companies, educational and research institutions, as well as non-profit and public organizations from EU Member States and associated countries engaged in quantum cryptography, cryptanalysis, and IT security. Funding supports research and innovation for the development of robust Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) implementations that defend against side-channel and fault injection attacks. Furthermore, quantum-resistant mathematical problem classes and new algorithms are to be analyzed in depth, and Post-Quantum signature and key encapsulation mechanisms designed to sustainably strengthen digital trust. The single-stage procedure starts on 02.03.2027; submissions are possible until 15.09.2027, 17:00 CEST. Projects can be funded with €3 – 4 million per proposal, at a funding rate of 100% for SMEs as well as for other eligible economic actors and research partners.

Personnel and subcontractor costs, travel expenses, and material costs in the fields of digitalization, research & innovation, and science are eligible for funding. Applicants must provide formal proof of their legal existence in eligible countries, financial and operational capacity, and compliance with funding conditions (no links to excluded third countries). Project implementation takes place in modular work packages adhering to the criteria of “degree of innovation,” “contributions to expected results,” and “quality of project implementation.” A consortium approach with at least three independent partners from different countries ensures that interdisciplinary competencies are optimally combined. The European Commission plans to award grants approximately eight months after the deadline. Interested actors can find all required documents—including the application form, project description, rough budget table, and researchers’ CVs—in the electronic submission system of the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.