Funding Call: Application Centers for Smart Connectivity

25.03.2026

Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation has launched a funding call to support the establishment of application centers for smart connectivity solutions. Communication networks are the foundation of digital transformation and play a key role in driving innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth. The aim is to bring existing technologies—such as Wi-Fi, private 5G networks, and other advanced networking solutions—into practical use and unlock new value creation potential.

1. Objectives and Scope of Funding
   The funding focuses on the development, testing, and implementation of innovative applications across various industries. The application centers are intended to serve as central contact points for companies, addressing sector-specific challenges and facilitating the transfer of research results into market-ready solutions. A key objective is to overcome barriers to implementation and promote new use cases for smart connectivity.
   
   Up to five projects will be funded, each establishing an application center. These centers may focus on individual sectors such as industry, logistics, mobility, agriculture, healthcare, smart cities, or critical infrastructures, or combine multiple sectors. They are expected to act as innovation drivers and ensure effective knowledge transfer across industries.
    
2. Tasks of the Application Centers
   The application centers will play a central role in connecting research and practice. One of their core tasks is to build and operate testing infrastructures that allow companies to trial and further develop solutions under real-world conditions. In addition, they will identify relevant use cases, refine them towards implementation, and document them in the form of transferable concepts and blueprints.
   
   Another key focus is active knowledge transfer. Through expert events, best practices, and targeted communication, the centers will disseminate their results across the respective industries. They will also support companies—particularly small and mediumsized enterprises—in implementing concrete projects.
    
3. Collaboration and Requirements
   A close collaboration with the Competence Center for Smart Connectivity (KSK) is mandatory, as it serves as an interface between research, development, and application. Furthermore, at least 15 associated partners with direct industry relevance must be involved to ensure strong practical alignment.
   
   Overall, the funded centers are expected to support at least 30 application projects and, together with the KSK, develop a minimum of 20 blueprints for transferable connectivity solutions.
    
4. Funding Details
   Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant of up to €3 million per project. Research institutions may receive funding of up to 80% of eligible costs. The maximum project duration is three years.
    
5. Submission of Project Outlines
   Interested applicants may submit project outlines as individual or collaborative proposals. The outlines must not exceed ten pages and must be submitted via the electronic “easy-Online” portal. Submission deadlines are April 13, 2026, and May 6, 2026.
   
   Further information about this call can be found here:
   network technologies and connectivity - Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation