Applications programme – special call for digital solutions

ICT and cybersecurity, led by artificial intelligence, has been developing at a meteoric pace in recent years. No wonder then that grant support is also focusing on this area.

Companies developing new and unique digital or software solutions can now distribute grant support totalling CZK 1.5 billion.

In the very popular Applications programme, which supports research, development and innovation, a new call has just been announced specifically for the implementation of experimental development of digital solutions with high market potential.

Who can apply for funding

The applicant can be companies of all sizes in the territory of the Czech Republic outside the capital city of Prague. However, large enterprises can only do so in cooperation with a small or medium-sized enterprise.

A research organisation can be a partner (but it is not a condition for its involvement in the project).

The applicant’s proposed solution must be completely unique and innovative and must address one of the above areas.

Supported areas:

  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning, including big data and security
  • Cybersecurity
  • advanced manufacturing and robotics
  • advanced technologies in healthcare
  • Sustainable energy and clean (low-emission) technologies
  • Intelligent transport applications for cities
  • communication and networking technologies
  • blockchain and distributed networks
  • Quantum computing and quantum communication
  • Fintech and digital finance

What the grant can fund

As in the regular call of the Applications Programme, the grant can finance salaries of research, IT and technical staff, services of experts or subcontracting of external services (contract research and consultancy services). In addition, you can also include among the eligible costs a flat rate of 20% of the total direct expenditure, which includes additional overheads and operating costs, including expenditure on materials, supplies, etc.

Amount of subsidy

  • The amount of the subsidy ranges from EUR 3 million to EUR 50 million. The subsidy will amount to CZK 250 million.
  • The level of support depends on the size of the beneficiary and whether the project is implemented in effective cooperation:
    • 45 % to 60 % – small enterprise,
    • 35 % to 50 % – medium-sized enterprise,
    • 25 % to 40 % – large enterprise,
    • 85 % – research organisation.

NB: the higher aid rate applies if the project is implemented in effective cooperation