Advanced IoT and Device Technologies

The main goal of this opportunity is to drive innovation in IoT and device technologies, especially within the context of 6G connectivity. It aims to support projects that create new IoT applications and services leveraging the advanced features of 6G, offering better performance than current 5G solutions. The focus is on developing sensing and connectivity technologies for zero-energy devices, new communication architectures for rapid deployment in sectors like industry and healthcare, and novel IoT devices with enhanced capabilities. The opportunity is open to legal entities from Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, and Mercosur countries, with certain geographic restrictions. Projects should demonstrate clear advancements over existing technologies and contribute to the strategic interests of the EU.

• Focus on one of the three defined areas: zero-energy devices, 6G in unlicensed bands, or 6G-optimized IoT applications.

• Clearly identify the chosen area in the proposal.

• Address networking and connectivity aspects for low/zero-energy operation, if targeting zero-energy devices.

• Include communication architecture and deployment models, especially for industrial/unlicensed scenarios, if addressing 6G-U.

• Demonstrate performance improvements over 5G in IoT use cases, if focusing on application-level advancements.

• Include relevant technology and protocol innovations enabling practical deployment in target use-case environments.

Examples:

• Developing battery-less IoT sensors for long-term monitoring in smart agriculture.
• Creating a 6G-enabled communication system for rapid deployment in hospital networks.
• Designing new IoT devices to support advanced manufacturing processes using 6G connectivity.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 9,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 3
• Budget per grant: 3,000,000€

• Applicants must be legal entities established in Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, or Mercosur countries.
• Entities from Russia, Belarus, or non-government-controlled territories of Ukraine are not eligible.
• Entities identified as high-risk suppliers of mobile network equipment, or those owned or controlled by such suppliers, are not eligible.
• Entities controlled by non-eligible countries may participate only with guarantees ensuring no negative impact on EU interests.
• Public bodies, research organizations, and higher education institutions must have a gender equality plan.
• Projects must address gender dimensions in research and innovation content if relevant.
• Intellectual property and results must remain within eligible countries, and sensitive information must be protected from non-eligible entities.
• National security clearance may be required for employees involved in the project.