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EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges

EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges — Stage 2

Funds advanced innovation projects advancing robotics and physical AI deep-tech initiatives toward scalable outcomes.

Between cyclesEuropean Innovation CouncilEU
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About

EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges Stage 2 is the second and final phase of the EIC's AIC pilot programme, open exclusively to companies and research performing organisations that successfully completed Stage 1 of the 2026 AIC call. Stage 1 closed 26 February 2026 and attracted 709 proposals across two challenge topics: Physical AI (full title: Accelerating Physical AI — Embodied Intelligence for …

What this grant funds

Stage 2 continuation grants (up to €2.5M) exclusively for Stage 1 AIC winners in Physical AI robotics and New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for biotech.

Key facts
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.18 Jun 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.30 months
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.—
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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: eic.ec.europa.eu