Accelerating uptake through open proposals for advanced SME innovation
Accelerating uptake through open proposals for advanced SME innovation supports SMEs adapting mature civil security technologies to end-user needs, accelerating technology transfer and uptake.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: May 5, 2027 (Opening) | November 4, 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: €1.5 million per project; €4.5 million total for 3 expected grants; maximum estimated duration 2 years
Summary: Supports SME-centred collaborations developing mature civil security technologies and accelerating their uptake by security end-users.
Key Information: Consortia need 3–7 beneficiaries, including at least two SMEs from different EU Member States and one relevant end-user.
Description
This European Commission Horizon Europe Innovation Action supports small innovators in tailoring mature technologies to civil security end-users’ needs. Part of the Civil Security for Society 2027 call, it addresses fighting crime and terrorism, disaster resilience, resilient infrastructure, and border management. Projects should consider the diverse needs of citizens regardless of gender, age, or ability.
The topic promotes collaboration among SMEs, public research partners, academia, and industrial partners to improve technology transfer and market uptake. Security end-users serve as validators and potential first adopters. Activities can include assessing market requirements and competition, approaching public buyers, accessing additional finance, managing innovation and intellectual property, and developing business models or pathways to international markets. Completed projects are expected to reach technology readiness levels (TRL) 6–8.
