Pilots for the Next Generation Internet (IA)

The Pilots for the Next Generation Internet (IA) program is designed to fund a wide array of innovators, researchers, developers, and organizations. The primary focus is on advancing digital and industrial technologies with a human-centric approach, extending its reach across European Union member states and beyond through strategic international collaborations.

The NGI Pilots program focuses on supporting innovative projects that deploy Next Generation Internet (NGI) technologies in practical, real-world scenarios. This includes a strong emphasis on open-source solutions and addressing critical needs across various industries and societal challenges. Projects are expected to move solutions closer to operational conditions, validating their socio-economic potential.

The NGI Pilots program offers grants as a form of financial support, with specific parameters for funding amounts and project durations. A key characteristic is the requirement for beneficiaries to provide financial support to third parties, promoting a collaborative ecosystem for innovation.

Applicants and beneficiaries of the NGI Pilots program must adhere to specific conditions and requirements outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes, covering aspects from application submission to project implementation and ethical considerations.

The application process for the NGI Pilots program follows a structured, single-stage submission approach via the European Commission's Funding & Tenders Portal. Applications are then evaluated against set criteria, with results communicated to applicants following a defined timeline.

The NGI Pilots funding program is firmly rooted in the legal and regulatory framework of Horizon Europe, ensuring its legitimacy and guiding its operational procedures in line with broader EU policies.