[European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en)

Opens July 15, 2025 | Deadline October 16, 2025 (17:00 Brussels time)

€3,000,000 total; 1 grant expected; single-stage application

Funding to standardise quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum cryptography technologies for a secure, interoperable European Quantum Communication Infrastructure.

--- ## Description This grant supports the development and implementation of comprehensive standardisation activities for the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI), with a focus on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and quantum cryptography services. The initiative aims to establish technical standards for QKD components and systems, ensure network and application interoperability, define performance benchmarks and certification protocols, and support integration of quantum devices into complex European networks. The action is central to building a robust, technologically autonomous quantum communication ecosystem in Europe and strengthening the industrial base for future quantum networks. --- ## Due Dates - Call opens: July 15, 2025 - Submission deadline: October 16, 2025, 17:00 (Brussels time) --- ## Funding Amount - Total available budget: €3,000,000 - Only one grant is expected to be awarded under this topic - Single-stage application process --- ## Eligibility - Open to legal entities established in eligible countries as defined in the [call document](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/digital/wp-call/2025/call-fiche_digital-iris2-2025-qci_en.pdf) - Typically includes universities, research organisations, SMEs, large companies, and public bodies from EU Member States and associated countries - Additional eligibility and admissibility conditions apply; see sections 5–7 of the call document --- ## Application Process - Proposals must be submitted electronically via the [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/DIGITAL-IRIS2-2025-QCI-03?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=2&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - Applications should follow the structure and page limits outlined in Part B of the Application Form (available in the Submission System) - Evaluation is based on criteria detailed in the call document (excellence, impact, quality and efficiency of implementation) - Detailed budget and supporting documents are required - Consult the [Online Manual](https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/funding-tenders-opportunities/display/OM/Online+Manual) for step-by-step submission guidance --- ## Additional Information - The grant is part of the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL), specifically under the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) call - Activities may include: - Overview and analysis of current QKD standardisation - Standardisation of QKD components (e.g., single-photon sources, detectors, transmitters/receivers, optical fibres) - Standardisation of network operations, multiplexing, and hybrid QKD/post-quantum cryptography schemes - Development of benchmarking, metrics, calibration, and monitoring tools - Formal evaluation and certification of QKD protocols - Collaboration with national authorities, evaluation labs, and relevant initiatives - Only one project will be funded under this topic --- ## External Links - [Call Topic & Submission Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/DIGITAL-IRIS2-2025-QCI-03?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=2&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [Call Document (PDF)](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/digital/wp-call/2025/call-fiche_digital-iris2-2025-qci_en.pdf) - [Digital Europe Programme Overview](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/programmes/digital) - [Funding & Tenders Portal Online Manual](https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/funding-tenders-opportunities/display/OM/Online+Manual) - [General FAQ](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/faq) - [EU Secure Connectivity Programme Regulation](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32023R0588) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact Link | |-------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | General inquiries | [Contact the European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | EU Funding Portal help | [IT Helpdesk Contact Form](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/helpdesks/contact-form) | | Write to the EU | [Contact form](https://european-union.europa.eu/contact-eu/write-us_en) |

Support standardisation for the EuroQCI (CSA)

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