The European Innovation Council has launched a new funding instrument targeting deep tech breakthroughs in Physical AI and embodied intelligence

The EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges is a new pilot instrument under Horizon Europe, designed to accelerate high-risk, demand-driven deep tech innovation with transformative potential in areas where cutting-edge research exists but commercial uptake remains limited. The 2026 edition opens a challenge on Accelerating Physical AI: Embodied Intelligence for the Next Frontier of AI-Powered Robotics.

The challenge targets breakthrough Physical AI solutions that enhance Europe’s technological sovereignty, sustainability, and global competitiveness in robotics. It is structured as a two-stage, stage-gated funding model: Stage 1 provides a €300,000 lump sum for up to nine months to prepare, benchmark, and assess the feasibility and viability of breakthrough solutions; Stage 2 provides up to €2.5 million for up to 2.5 years to further develop the most promising solutions and test them in real-world environments with the involvement of users. Both stages are complemented by access to EIC Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and access to the broader European deep tech ecosystem.

The Stage 1 deadline is February 26th, 2026.

Links

EIC Open Call