CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call for International ICT Research and Innovation Projects

The CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call 2026 supports international research and development projects advancing next-generation ICT and communications technologies. The programme funds collaborative, market-oriented innovation across areas such as 5G/6G, IoT, smart systems, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure through a flexible, bottom-up approach.

CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call 2026 Overview

The CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call 2026 invites applications for innovative international R&D projects that strengthen next-generation communications and ICT solutions. The programme aims to build a secure, trusted, and sustainable digital society by accelerating the commercialisation of advanced technologies.

CELTIC-NEXT operates under the EUREKA framework and focuses on civilian, market-driven research that delivers tangible economic and societal impact.

What Is the CELTIC-NEXT Programme?

CELTIC-NEXT is a European-led, industry-driven R&D programme dedicated to information and communication technologies. It supports collaborative innovation across borders, enabling organisations to develop commercially viable ICT products, services, and processes.

Key characteristics include:

• International cooperation

• Industry relevance and market orientation

• Strong emphasis on innovation and commercial outcomes

• Alignment with the CELTIC-NEXT Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda

Priority Research and Innovation Areas

The Spring Call covers a wide spectrum of ICT and digital innovation themes.

Key focus areas include:

• Next-generation communications and network capacity

• 5G and 6G technologies

• Photonics and satellite systems

• Internet of Things (IoT)

• Smart cities and smart homes

• Industry 4.0 and digital manufacturing

• Mobility, logistics, and automotive telecommunications

• Cybersecurity, privacy, identity, and public safety

• Energy-efficient and robust digital systems

• Blockchain, fintech, and digital finance

• E-health and digital health solutions

• Big data, data analytics, and trusted AI

Projects may address one or multiple themes, provided they align with CELTIC-NEXT objectives.

Programme Approach and Innovation Model

CELTIC-NEXT follows a bottom-up innovation approach, allowing applicants full flexibility to define their research topics.

This means:

• No predefined thematic constraints beyond ICT relevance

• Support for both evolutionary and disruptive innovation

• Freedom to explore ambitious, high-impact ideas

• Focus on R&D leading to commercial exploitation

The programme encourages creativity while maintaining a strong link to real-world applications.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility is based on consortium composition, project scope, and geographic participation.

Eligible applicants include:

• Large enterprises and industry players

• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

• Research and technology organisations

• Universities and academic institutions

Each project must:

• Involve at least two independent legal entities

• Include partners from a minimum of two EUREKA countries

• Ensure no single organisation or country exceeds 70% of the total project budget

• Focus on civilian, non-military applications

Participating Countries

Organisations from the following countries are eligible to participate, subject to national rules:

• Austria

• Belgium (Wallonia)

• Canada

• Czech Republic

• Finland

• France

• Germany

• Hungary

• Ireland

• Israel

• Poland

• Portugal

• Singapore

• South Africa

• South Korea

• Spain

• Sweden

• Türkiye

Applicants must confirm national eligibility and funding conditions with their respective authorities.

Funding and Financial Considerations

CELTIC-NEXT itself does not directly fund projects. Instead, participation may provide access to national public funding.

Important funding notes:

• Funding availability depends on national programmes

• Eligibility rules vary by country

• Applicants must consult national public authorities early

• Each partner is funded according to their national regulations

Understanding national funding frameworks is critical before submission.

How to Apply for the CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call 2026

The application process is collaborative and structured to support international partnerships.

Steps to apply:

1. Define a market-oriented ICT R&D project concept

2. Form an international consortium with eligible partners

3. Participate in the online Launch Event for guidance

4. Attend the Brokerage Day in Vienna to find partners

5. Prepare and submit the joint project proposal

6. Apply separately for national funding where required

All partners must align on objectives, budget, and exploitation plans.

Why This Call Matters

The CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call plays a key role in strengthening Europe’s and partner countries’ digital innovation ecosystems.

It matters because it:

• Accelerates next-generation ICT development

• Encourages cross-border industrial collaboration

• Bridges research and commercialisation

• Supports secure, sustainable digital infrastructure

• Enhances global competitiveness in digital technologies

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid issues that commonly weaken proposals.

Frequent mistakes include:

• Weak or unbalanced consortium structures

• Unclear commercialisation or market strategy

• Ignoring national funding eligibility rules

• Overconcentration of budget with one partner

• Insufficient alignment with ICT innovation goals

Early coordination among partners helps prevent these issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call?

It is an international R&D call supporting collaborative ICT projects focused on next-generation digital and communication technologies.

Is the programme limited to specific ICT themes?

No. The call follows a bottom-up approach, allowing broad freedom within ICT and digital innovation areas.

Do projects receive funding directly from CELTIC-NEXT?

No. Funding is provided through national public funding schemes, depending on country-specific rules.

How many partners are required in a consortium?

At least two independent legal entities from a minimum of two EUREKA countries are required.

Can SMEs and universities apply?

Yes. SMEs, large companies, research organisations, and academic institutions are all eligible.

Are military or defence projects allowed?

No. All projects must focus exclusively on civilian applications.

Final Takeaway

The CELTIC-NEXT Spring Call 2026 offers a powerful opportunity to develop and commercialise next-generation ICT solutions through international collaboration. By combining flexible research freedom with strong industry relevance, the programme enables ambitious digital innovation that supports a secure, trusted, and sustainable digital society.