Overview of the Call
The IRI S3 call supports the development of new products and services within the identified thematic priority areas of the Smart Specialization Strategy (S3). The focus is on strengthening companies’ capacities for research, development, and innovation, as well as promoting collaboration between businesses and research organizations.
Call type: Open call
Operational program: Competitiveness and Cohesion 2021–2027
Managing authority: Ministry of Economy
Application start date: September 15, 2025, 12:00
Application deadline: until funds are exhausted, no later than December 30, 2026
Total budget: EUR 191,170,820
Purpose of the Call
The aim is to strengthen companies’ capacities for research, development, and innovation, and to encourage collaboration between businesses and research institutions.
Eligible Applicants
- Micro enterprises
- Small enterprises
- Medium enterprises
- Large enterprises (on condition of collaboration with SMEs or R&D organizations)
- Applicants can apply individually or in partnership with other companies and/or research and development organizations (R&D institutions)
Funding Intensity
- Minimum grant amount: EUR 200,000
- Maximum grant amount: EUR 2,000,000
- Funding intensity depends on the size of the company, type of activity, regional aid, and other criteria
Eligible Activities
Research and Development, including:
- Own, contract, or collaborative research
- Industrial research (TRL 2–4), must end at TRL 4
- Experimental development (TRL 5–8) – mandatory
- Feasibility studies (only in combination with research or experimental development activities)
Initial investments in tangible and intangible assets to strengthen innovation capacities – allowed only in combination with R&D activities. Regional aid can cover up to 30% of eligible costs.
Application deadline
December 30, 2026, at 14:00, or earlier if funds are fully utilized.
