The year 2026 marks a decisive step for the European Union as it strengthens its ambition to achieve digital sovereignty. The calls for projects published across various European programmes clearly express a desire to accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence, responsible digital technology and emerging technologies at the heart of policies for innovation, competitiveness and sustainability. For project promoters, understanding these priorities is essential to maximize their chances of success.
A European strategy firmly focused on AI
Artificial intelligence has become one of the pillars of Europe’s digital transition. In 2025, calls for projects increasingly align with the AI Act, which regulates the use of AI, while supporting innovative, transparent and human-centric solutions.
Several themes stand out across funding programmes:
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Trustworthy and explainable AI
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Advanced automation and intelligent process optimisation
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AI applied to key sectors such as health, energy, mobility and cybersecurity
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Development of tools to strengthen the digital resilience of businesses and public administrations
For applicants, the ability to demonstrate safe, ethical and value-aligned use of AI is a decisive factor.
Digital technology serving competitiveness and sustainability
Beyond AI, digital technologies hold a central place in the 2025 calls for projects. The objective is twofold: accelerate digital transformation while ensuring sustainable, accessible and energy-efficient technologies.
Key priorities include:
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Adoption of European cloud solutions and sovereign data infrastructures
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Cybersecurity and protection of critical systems
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Development of digital solutions for Industry 5.0
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Interoperability and standardisation of digital tools across Europe
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Immersive technologies and next-generation internet
Projects that incorporate eco-responsible approaches, lifecycle assessment or reduced energy consumption attract growing interest from evaluators.
European programmes that prioritise AI and digital technologies
In 2025, several programmes stand out for the importance they place on digital innovation.
Horizon Europe
Pillar II, particularly the “Digital, Industry and Space” and “Health” clusters, offers major opportunities to develop solutions based on AI, big data analytics, robotics and advanced simulation.
Digital Europe Programme
This programme continues to fund essential infrastructures such as supercomputers, cybersecurity, advanced AI skills, digital innovation hubs and large-scale demonstrator projects.
Connecting Europe Facility (CEF)
CEF Digital supports the deployment of secure networks, cross-border interoperability and digital public services.
Structural Funds
In many European regions, Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) include strong priorities in applied AI, digital transformation and SME innovation.
How to optimise your project to meet 2026 expectations
To stand out, applicants must demonstrate more than simple technological integration. Successful projects highlight:
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A strong European dimension: cross-border cooperation, data sharing, networking
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Strict compliance with regulatory frameworks (AI Act, GDPR, cybersecurity)
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Measurable impacts on competitiveness, sustainability and strategic autonomy
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A clear plan for exploitation, dissemination and market or public-interest adoption
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Consideration of digital skills and user training
Projects built around responsible technology use, capable of delivering tangible benefits to citizens, businesses and territories, are particularly valued.
Conclusion
In 2025, the role of AI and digital technology in European calls for projects is more strategic than ever. Funding programmes encourage initiatives that strengthen the EU’s technological sovereignty while ensuring ethical, sustainable and inclusive development. For organisations wishing to position themselves, anticipating these priorities and structuring a robust project is a genuine lever for securing funding opportunities and contributing to Europe’s major transformations.
