European Innovation Council logo
EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges

Advanced Innovation Challenge: Accelerating Physical AI

Supports ARPA inspired high risk demand driven Physical AI pilots with transformative deep-tech potential.

Between cyclesEuropean Innovation CouncilEUEU associated countries

The European Innovation Council's Advanced Innovation Challenge (AIC) on Physical AI is a new ARPA-inspired pilot programme launched for the first time in 2026 under the EIC's Horizon Europe portfolio. It targets breakthrough embodied-intelligence technologies — AI systems that perceive, reason, and act within the physical world — specifically for next-generation AI-powered robotics. The programme…

Breakthrough Physical AI for AI-Powered Robotics — embodied intelligence for the next frontier. Tech sovereignty, sustainability, global competitiveness.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.15 Oct 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.12 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€3M

Sign up free to see the funding breakdown

Sign up free to see the industries in scope

Sign up free to see the full eligibility

Sign up free to see how to apply

Sign up free to see what you submit

Sign up free to see how they score you

Sign up free to see the timeline

Sign up free to see where teams trip up

Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: eic.ec.europa.eu