You design AI chips. Maybe inference accelerators for edge devices. Maybe neuromorphic processors. Maybe RISC-V based AI cores. The EU has three overlapping programmes that fund AI hardware, and most chip startups only know about one of them.
Programme 1: EU Chips Act
€43B total budget through 2030. Covers the entire chip lifecycle: EDA tools, pilot line access, prototyping, and manufacturing. AI accelerators are a priority category. If you design any kind of AI processor in Europe, the Chips Act funds your development from tape-out to production.
Programme 2: European Defence Fund
Critical systems need European-designed AI processors. The EU can't run autonomous systems on Chinese-made chips. EDF funds the adaptation of AI hardware for critical applications. 100% funded, up to €5M for SME-led projects. Your inference accelerator designed for data centres is the same architecture they need for edge applications in harsh environments.
Programme 3: Horizon Europe
Funds fundamental AI hardware R&D: neuromorphic computing, in-memory computing, photonic AI, and novel architectures. Best for companies at earlier TRL stages developing new chip concepts. Funding rates of 70-100%.
The stacking strategy
Use Horizon Europe to fund architecture R&D. Use the Chips Act to fund prototyping and pilot production. Use EDF to fund adaptation for critical infrastructure. Three programmes, one chip, a fully funded path from concept to production. Each programme covers a different development stage, so there's no overlap or conflict.
If you design AI hardware in Europe, check your eligibility across all three programmes. The funding is designed to work together.
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