While Europe accelerates on critical technologies, The Digital Europe program Still unknown to many startups, SMEs, communities and research organizations, however, it constitutes a lever for financing for any organization that wishes to engage in the deployment of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital skills or even data infrastructures.
What is the Digital Europe program?
Digital Europe is a European Union framework program with 7.5 billion euros over the period 2021–2027. His goal is to accelerate the adoption of advanced digital technologies In the economy and European administrations, by focusing on five key axes:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cloud, data and infrastructure
- Cybersecurity
- Advanced digital skills
- Large -scale technological deployment (via hubs, platforms and consortia).
The program acts mainly by targeted calls for projectsopen to all types of European or associated organizations, whether businesses, clusters, universities, research centers, local authorities, etc.
Who are 2025 calls for?
The 2025–2027 cycle has 140 million euros divided into four callsaccessible until September 2, 2025. They target in particular:
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- Startups and SMEs developing or deploying generative AI,,
- The structures wishing to found a Digital skills academy (quantum, AI, virtual worlds),
- Digital innovation hubs (EDIH) in associated countries,
- The actors of Information verification or online protection minors.
Attention : Each call includes specific requirements (consortia, European partnerships, expected results, etc.). It is therefore crucial to read the specifications well (called “call document”) before launching.
How to participate? The Express Guide
- Identify the relevant call On the European funding portal (EU Funding & Tenders Portal).
- Create an EU login account (essential to apply).
- Constitute a European consortium If necessary (often requested for structuring projects).
- Prepare a solid technical fileincluding:
- Project description,
- Partners,
- Budget,
- Measurable objectives and impact.
- Submit before the deadline (September 2, 2025).
Why apply?
- Access to non -dilutive funding.
- Visibility at European level.
- Cooperation with key tech and research actors.
- Direct contribution to the objectives of technological sovereignty of Europe.
If you develop solutions in AI, quantum, cybersecurity or digital skills, Digital Europe can help you change scale. But beware: the competition is strong, and the criteria are demanding. Anticipate, surround yourself, read the call documents well and structure a solid project are essential prerequisites.
