This week’s updates highlight major EU investments in AI, environment and digital technologies, alongside new funding calls, policy direction in advanced materials, and strengthened international research cooperation.
🌱 LIFE Programme - €601.5M for green transition projects
The European Commission has launched the LIFE Calls for Proposals 2026, with a total budget of €601.5 million to support projects in environment, climate action and clean energy.
The calls cover key areas including biodiversity, circular economy, climate adaptation and energy transition, supporting Europe’s path toward sustainability and competitiveness.
Source: European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency
🤖 Digital Europe - €63.2M for AI innovation and deployment
The European Commission is making €63.2 million available to support AI innovation across sectors including healthcare, cybersecurity and online safety.
The funding aims to accelerate AI adoption, strengthen digital capacities and support trustworthy AI solutions across Europe.
Source: Shaping Europe’s digital future
💻 Digital Europe Programme - New calls for proposals open
New calls under the Digital Europe Programme have been launched, targeting investments in AI, advanced digital skills, cybersecurity and digital infrastructure.
These opportunities support organisations looking to scale digital solutions and strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty.
Source: Shaping Europe’s digital future
🧪 Horizon Europe - Advanced materials policy priorities highlighted
EU experts are calling for stronger policy focus on advanced materials, emphasising the need to prioritise strategic autonomy, safety, sustainability and industrial competitiveness.
The recommendations aim to guide future EU funding and innovation policies in this critical technological domain.
Source: Research and innovation - European Commission
🌍 Horizon Europe - EU–North Macedonia cooperation strengthened
The EU and North Macedonia held their third Joint Research and Innovation Committee meeting, reinforcing cooperation under Horizon Europe.
The collaboration focuses on increasing participation, strengthening research capacity and expanding joint innovation activities.
Source: Research and innovation - European Commission