Further Technological development of Maglev-derived Systems

This program targets private members of EU-Rail consortia, encompassing companies, SMEs, and start-ups specializing in Maglev-based technologies and rail applications. Its core objective is to enhance Europe's railway system by integrating innovative Maglev-Derived Systems (MDS) to boost capacity and performance across the trans-European transport network.

This program focuses on research and innovation activities dedicated to advancing Maglev-derived Systems (MDS) for railway integration. The scope of funded projects extends from the refinement of advanced design concepts to comprehensive testing and validation procedures, with the aim of ensuring compliance with interoperability standards and assessing both technical feasibility and economic viability.

This funding program offers grants structured as lump sum contributions, with an indicative total budget of EUR 3 million available for one selected project. The typical project duration is set at 36 months, although alternative durations can be proposed if justified by the project's specific needs.

Applicants and beneficiaries must adhere to specific conditions for this funding program, including strict admissibility criteria for proposals and mandatory consortium formation. Crucially, Private Members of EU-Rail consortia are required to provide significant in-kind contributions, ensuring financial leverage.

The application process involved submitting proposals according to specific forms and guidelines, with a submission window from February 26 to May 7, 2025. Evaluation procedures followed a defined set of award criteria, with applicants notified of outcomes in July 2025, and grant agreements scheduled for signature by the end of 2025.

This funding program is legally underpinned by the overarching Horizon Europe Framework Programme and its specific program decisions. Its operations are further governed by a range of key European Union regulations and policies, including financial regulations and specific decisions on funding mechanisms like lump sum contributions.