Physical and cognitive augmentation in advanced manufacturing (Made in Europe Partnership) (RIA)

The main goal of this opportunity is to support the development of breakthrough technologies that physically and cognitively augment workers in advanced manufacturing settings. It aims to empower factory workers at all levels through innovative human-machine interaction, focusing on flexibility, inclusiveness, safety, and well-being. The initiative encourages the creation of high-quality and attractive jobs while supporting both green and digital transitions in industry. Special emphasis is placed on the human-centric approach of Industry 5.0, addressing workforce diversity and the use of advanced technologies such as mechatronics, sensing, photonics, and AI. This grant primarily targets organizations in the European Union and associated countries.

• Must develop breakthrough augmentation technologies enhancing human-machine interaction on the factory floor

• Must address human-centric design, integrating worker and manager needs throughout the innovation process

• Must apply AI or advanced sensing to improve safety, decision support, communication, and ergonomics

• Must develop and validate assessment methodologies for the impact of augmentation technologies beyond economics

• Must incorporate Social Sciences and Humanities to evaluate trust, inclusion, and workforce diversity (e.g. age, gender, ability)

• Must include a business case and exploitation strategy tailored to the maturity of the proposed technologies

Examples:

• A project developing AI-powered exoskeletons to assist workers in heavy manufacturing tasks.
• An initiative creating smart wearable devices to improve safety and ergonomics for factory staff.
• A collaborative project designing inclusive interfaces that enable older workers to operate advanced machinery.

• Personnel costs for researchers, engineers, and project staff
• Costs for purchasing or developing equipment and prototypes
• Software and digital tool development expenses
• Materials and consumables used in research and testing
• Travel and accommodation for project meetings and dissemination
• Subcontracting specific tasks or technical services
• Costs for organizing workshops or training sessions
• Communication, dissemination, and outreach activities
• Management and coordination expenses
• Indirect costs covered within the lump sum

Restrictions: All expenses must fit within the lump sum model and comply with the program's eligibility rules.

• Budget for this Call: 35,000,000€ 
• Number of Grants attributed: 7
• Maximum value per project: 6,000,000€
• Minimum value per project: 4,000,000€

• Applicants must be legal entities established in eligible countries as defined for this program.
• Entities from China are not permitted to participate in Innovation Actions.
• Applicants must demonstrate adequate financial and operational capacity.
• Projects must align with the thematic focus and objectives of the opportunity.
• Applicants must follow the proposal format and submission guidelines.
• Eligibility may depend on forming consortia or partnerships, as commonly required in such programs.
• All participants must comply with the rules set out in the program documentation.