Enhancing preparedness for large-scale cross-border disasters - European Commission
This grant funds research to develop VR/AR and digital twin-based training systems for improving cross-border disaster preparedness and coordination among EU emergency responders.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: November 4, 2027 (Full application deadline, single-stage, 17:00 Brussels time)
Funding Amounts: €8,000,000 total budget | ~€4,000,000 per project | 2 grants expected | Lump sum funding
Summary: Supports advanced VR/AR and digital twin-based training to improve cross-border disaster preparedness, coordination, and knowledge-sharing among EU emergency responders.
Description
This funding opportunity aims to enhance preparedness for large-scale, cross-border disasters by advancing training methodologies using virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and Digital Twins. The goal is to develop immersive, technology-driven crisis simulations that realistically replicate complex disaster scenarios (e.g., wildfires, floods, earthquakes, industrial accidents) for emergency responders and decision-makers. Proposals should deliver innovative VR/AR models leveraging real-time data, AI-driven adaptation, and multi-user interaction to support joint exercises across regions and countries. Emphasis is placed on interoperability, gender-sensitive approaches, situational awareness, and transnational coordination. Projects must address ethical, legal, and social considerations, including data protection and cybersecurity, and align with EU disaster risk reduction policies.
