Funds research to develop explainable AI solutions that improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability in advanced European manufacturing.
European Commission has archived this opportunity.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: March 17, 2026 | October 13, 2026
Funding Amounts: €4–6 million per project (lump sum); total call budget €30 million; up to 5 projects funded
Summary: Supports R&I projects developing explainable AI solutions to improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability in advanced manufacturing within European factories.
Key Information: Two-stage blind evaluation; legal entities from China are not eligible to participate.
This Horizon Europe opportunity funds research and innovation actions (RIA) that leverage artificial intelligence to advance manufacturing and production processes in European factories. The call targets the development of innovative, explainable AI-based solutions that enhance circularity, operational efficiency, and sustainability, while reducing emissions and aligning with the EU's Clean Industrial Deal objectives. Projects may address dynamic process optimization, real-time defect detection and correction, and maximizing the use of regenerated materials. Proposals should demonstrate adaptability to changing production needs, secure industrial data management, and may involve collaborations with AI Factories, Data Labs, and Digital Innovation Hubs. A strong business case and exploitation strategy are required, with an emphasis on systemic organizational innovation and alignment with European leadership goals in digital and manufacturing technologies.