
Supporting the AI/ML digital transition of Copernicus Services
12.000.000€
Description
The main goal of this opportunity is to support the digital transformation of Copernicus services using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). It aims to modernize how Copernicus handles its data, products, and services, making them more efficient, reliable, and user-friendly. Key focus areas include developing advanced AI-supported algorithms, improving data fusion and fault detection, and creating interactive tools like chatbots for users. The opportunity is open to projects from eligible countries involved in Horizon Europe. Thematic areas include operational workflow optimization, large-scale AI models, and enhanced user experience for Copernicus services.
Admissible Projects
- Projects must involve participants from eligible countries as defined by Horizon Europe.
- Projects using satellite-based Earth observation, positioning, navigation, or timing data must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS systems.
- Proposals must follow the specified page limits, layout, and application format.
- Applicants need to show strong financial and operational capacity.
- Only one project will be selected for funding.
- Projects must focus on integrating AI/ML strategies to improve Copernicus workflows and services.
Examples:
- A project that develops an AI-powered tool to improve the accuracy and speed of Copernicus weather data analysis.
- An initiative that uses machine learning to detect faults and optimize data processing in Copernicus satellite systems.
- A project that creates an interactive chatbot to help users access and interpret Copernicus data more easily.
Eligible Expenses
- Personnel costs for researchers, engineers, and support staff
- Costs for developing and testing AI/ML algorithms
- Expenses for acquiring or accessing relevant data sets
- Purchase or rental of computing hardware and software
- Travel and accommodation for project meetings or fieldwork
- Costs for dissemination activities, such as workshops or conferences
- Subcontracting specific tasks or services
- Costs for developing user interfaces, such as chatbots or dashboards
- Project management and coordination expenses
- Training and capacity-building activities related to AI/ML and Copernicus services
Note: All expenses must fit within the lump sum funding model as outlined by Horizon Europe. Restrictions or further details may apply as described in the official programme guidance.
Financial Information
- Budget for this Call: 12,000,000€
- Number of Grants attributed: 1
- Maximum value per project: 12,000,000€
- Minimum value per project: 12,000,000€
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be from countries eligible under Horizon Europe guidelines.
- Projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS systems if working with satellite-based Earth observation, navigation, or timing data.
- Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial and operational capacity.
- Proposals must follow the required format and page limits.
- Only one project will be selected for funding.
- Legal and financial arrangements must fit the lump sum funding model of Horizon Europe.
- Collaboration with relevant entities, such as the Joint Research Centre, is encouraged.
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Supporting the AI/ML digital transition of Copernicus Services
5
Specialized Consultants
SMART Application Package

Initial meeting to confirm eligibility.
Connection with the best specialized consultant for the incentive and industry.
Complete management and submission of application.
Timeline
May 22, 2025
Applications Open
The period when applications for the opportunity are accepted.
Sept. 25, 2025
Applications Close
The date when applications for the opportunity close.
May 22, 2025
Applications Open
The period when applications for the opportunity are accepted.
Sept. 25, 2025
Applications Close
The date when applications for the opportunity close.