Access to finance

The European Digital Connectivity Awards 2026 recognise outstanding projects supporting Europe’s Digital Decade connectivity objectives. Projects of all sizes and from the public or private sector can apply under three categories: gigabit-ready infrastructure, bridging the digital divide, and cross-border and international connectivity.

European competition addressed to startups, SMEs, R&D teams, universities and technology centres developing solutions based on generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). The call features four challenges focused on agricultural robotics, AI-assisted design and simulation, the enhancement of clinical imaging datasets, and the validation of autonomus driving systems. The competition is divided into two phases: the first phase (TRL 1-2), in which five projects per challenge will each receive a €28,500 prize, and the second phase (TRL 4-5), in which one winning project per challenge will receive a €100,000 prize.

Technology exploration grant call to support business projects in early innovation stages, aimed at validating the potential of new technologies before making a significant investment. Grants cover up to 75% of eligible costs, with a maximum of €30,000 per project, and an implementation period of up to 10 months from the call closure, including a 60% upfront payment without the need for guarantees.