Deadline: 19-May-2026
The European Commission is offering up to EUR 30 million funding for projects developing ultra-efficient small modular regional (SMR) aircraft systems. The initiative focuses on advanced systems platforms to enhance computing, data handling, safety, cybersecurity, and overall reliability, aiming for deployment readiness by 2035.
Overview
The European Commission invites applications to develop and validate an advanced, integrated systems platform for next-generation ultra-efficient small modular regional (SMR) aircraft.
The initiative targets optimized aircraft system performance, including:
- Computing efficiency and high-performance data handling
- System safety and cybersecurity
- Reliability and readiness for future aircraft deployment
The program aligns with the Clean Aviation objectives, targeting entry into service by 2035.
Funding Details
- Maximum EU contribution: EUR 30 million per project
- Project limit: Only one project may be funded per topic
- Eligibility: Proposals exceeding the funding limit will be rejected
- Project duration: Up to 36 months under an Innovation Action framework
Objectives and Scope
Projects should focus on:
- Developing an optimized systems platform for SMR aircraft
- Validating critical aircraft functions, including computing, data handling, and system reliability
- Enhancing safety and cybersecurity capabilities
- Demonstrating readiness for ultra-efficient aircraft deployment by 2035
Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Requirements
- Starting TRL: Minimum 4
- Target TRL: 6 at project completion
- Roadmap: Clear alignment with Clean Aviation objectives for operational deployment
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
- Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs)
- Universities
Requirement: At least 15% of the total EU contribution must be allocated to these entities. Proposals not meeting this criterion will not be evaluated.
How to Apply
- Prepare a detailed project proposal aligned with the Clean Aviation roadmap.
- Ensure budget allocation does not exceed EUR 30 million and meets the 15% allocation requirement for SMEs, RTOs, and universities.
- Demonstrate a clear TRL progression from 4 to 6.
- Submit via the European Commission’s funding portal before the specified deadline.
- Highlight contributions to safety, cybersecurity, and system reliability in the technical section.
Key Considerations and Tips
- Avoid budget overruns, as proposals above EUR 30 million are ineligible.
- Ensure collaboration with SMEs, RTOs, or universities to meet evaluation criteria.
- Focus on demonstrable TRL progression and a realistic 36-month project timeline.
- Provide robust validation methods for critical aircraft functions.
FAQs
- What is the maximum funding per project?
EUR 30 million, with only one project funded per topic. - What is the required project duration?
Maximum of 36 months under an Innovation Action framework. - Which TRL levels are required?
Start at TRL 4 and achieve TRL 6 for the optimized systems platform. - Who must receive at least 15% of funding?
SMEs, Research and Technology Organisations, and universities across EU Member States or associated countries. - What happens if the budget exceeds EUR 30 million?
The proposal will be considered ineligible and not evaluated. - Is collaboration required?
While not mandatory, proposals must allocate at least 15% of funding to eligible SMEs, RTOs, or universities. - When is the expected deployment of the system?
Entry into service is targeted by 2035, aligned with Clean Aviation objectives.
Conclusion
This funding opportunity supports cutting-edge aviation innovation by advancing ultra-efficient SMR aircraft systems. By combining technology optimization, safety, cybersecurity, and reliability, the program seeks to accelerate Europe’s clean aviation goals and deliver high-performance aircraft systems ready for deployment by 2035.
For more information, visit European Commission.