Developing and demonstrating core technologies for Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0 (IA) (Virtual worlds Partnership)

This grant supports projects that advance eXtended Reality (XR), immersive and interactive technologies, urging full integration of Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0. The goal is to usher in the next generation of virtual worlds, improving immersive visualization and user-centric experiences with seamless interaction and data exchange. Focus areas include human-centric environments, use of Generative AI for personalized experiences, novel immersive visualization and interaction, interoperability of XR and immersive domains, and integration with Telco-Cloud-to-Edge Continuum. Projects are expected to establish technological standards, enable real-time intuitive user-interaction across platforms, and present demonstrators in real-world scenarios, especially leveraging industrial and societal contexts. Proposals must engage Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) expertise to increase the societal impact of research.

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Agency	HORIZON (EU)
Region	EUUK
Country	N/A
Legal form	Company, NGO, Government organization, Other
Start date	15 Jan 2026
End date	15 Apr 2026
Max funding	4,000,000 EUR – 5,000,000 EUR per grant
Budget	30,000,000 EUR (2026 budget for this action)
Coverage	Innovation Action (IA): funding rate up to 70% of eligible costs for for-profit entities and 100% for non-profit entities

Grant application conditions

Applicant Country Eligibility	Legal entities established in EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, and the following associated countries: Canada, Israel, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Entities from third countries may participate if they become associated with Horizon Europe during 2026 or 2027 and are identified as eligible at the time of submission.
Ownership and Control Restrictions	Entities established in eligible countries but directly or indirectly controlled by a non-eligible country/entity may only participate if national guarantees ensure no negative impact on EU interests or security.
High-risk Supplier Exclusion	Entities considered high-risk suppliers of mobile network communication equipment, or controlled by such, cannot participate unless specific guarantees are granted.
Project Duration	Typical project duration is 36 months, though other durations are possible.
SSH Involvement	Proposals must include Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) experts and expertise.
Demonstrators Required	Proposals must include demonstrators of developed technologies in relevant real-world/industrial/societal scenarios.
Documentation	https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL4-2026-04-HUMAN-01

Eligible expenses

Evaluation criteria

Business exclusions

Reporting

Application process

Application requirements