TWIST — 2nd Public
Funds Czech Republic TWIST public calls that support strategic technology projects in artificial intelligence, quantum systems, semiconductors, and microelectronics.
TWIST — Transfer, Výzkum, Vývoj a Inovace pro Strategické Technologie (Transfer, Research, Development and Innovation for Strategic Technologies) — is a direct R&D grant program administered by the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade (MPO), independent of EU structural funds. Established by Czech Government Resolution No. 370 of 5 June 2024, the program carries a total budget of 5 billion CZK and runs from 2025 through 2031, with annual public calls (veřejné soutěže) planned throughout the period. The three focus areas are artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and semiconductors and microelectronics — technologies identified as European strategic priorities.
The program operates through three sub-programs: applied R&D projects within enterprises (with optional research-organization involvement), innovation-into-practice deployment for SMEs, and knowledge-transfer vouchers by which SMEs purchase licenses or services from research organizations. FY02 is the second annual public call; formal-control results for FY02 have been published. Specific FY02 award ranges, budget envelope, and submission deadline are contained in the PDF call announcement rather than the HTML landing page. Applications are submitted via aisportal.mpo.gov.cz/TWIST/ and inquiries go to twist@mpo.gov.cz.
For applicants, TWIST is the primary Czech national-funds route for R&D in AI, quantum, and semiconductor fields — sitting alongside the EU-funded OP TAK Aplikace track but governed by national-aid rules rather than ERDF escalation. The annual cycle pattern through 2031 means organizations that miss FY02 have confirmed future cycles. Consortia combining enterprises with universities or research organizations qualify for the applied R&D sub-program, while innovation-into-practice and voucher tracks are limited to SMEs.
Applied R&D in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, semiconductors and microelectronics.
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