Accelerate digital energy innovation: Funding for data-driven IoT, edge, and AI solutions in energy management. Up to €60,000 in funding!
About HEDGE-IoT Open Call
HEDGE-IoT Open Call 1 is an EU-funded initiative that supports SMEs and start-ups to enhance IoT ecosystems for smart energy management. The programme focuses on deploying advanced AI/ML tools and IoT assets for improved energy efficiency, grid flexibility, and secure data transactions.
- Programme duration: February 2026 – July 2026 (possible extension to October 2026 for some use cases)
- Resources: Access to pilot infrastructures, data sets, and technical support from leading energy actors across Europe
- Objective: Foster data-driven services at the edge or cloud level, boosting the flexibility and intelligence of European energy systems.
Why Apply to HEDGE-IoT Open Call?
- Up to €60,000 in non-dilutive funding per project, covering 70% of eligible costs plus 25% flat-rate overhead
- Direct access to real-world energy pilots and advanced IoT infrastructure
- Technical and business mentoring from top industry and research partners
- Visibility and validation in the European energy and innovation ecosystem
- Acceleration towards market entry for innovative digital energy solutions.
Who Can Apply?
- Individual SMEs or start-ups (no consortia)
- Registered and profit-making in EU Member States or Horizon Europe associated countries
- No conflict of interest with HEDGE-IoT consortium partners
- Proposals must be submitted in English
The call targets innovators working on IoT, AI, energy management, edge/cloud solutions, and secure data transactions in the energy sector.
How to Apply?
To apply to the HEDGE-IoT Open Call 1, you must submit your application via the F6S platform. All guidelines and FAQs can be found at hedgeiot.eu/open-call. The required documents include a project description (covering both the technical and business case), evidence of alignment with HEDGE-IoT use cases and challenges, as well as an implementation plan, impact assessment, and team details.
Evaluation & Selection Process
Step 1: Remote expert evaluation (criteria: excellence, impact, implementation)
Step 2: Online interviews for top-ranked applicants
Step 3: Final selection by the HEDGE-IoT consortium
Additional Support Beyond Funding
In addition to funding, selected projects will receive tailored technical and business mentoring, access to networking opportunities and exclusive training sessions, increased visibility through EU and industry channels, and the opportunity to access pilot infrastructures and datasets.
Proposal Requirements for HEDGE-IoT
Proposals for HEDGE-IoT must demonstrate clear alignment with the HEDGE-IoT technical framework and address one of the defined challenges or use cases, such as grid flexibility, secure IoT data, edge/cloud analytics, or real-time predictive management. Applications should ensure interoperability with standard protocols, including CIM, MQTT, and REST APIs. Submissions must also include team CVs, a work plan, and a budget covering eligible costs such as personnel, travel, equipment, consumables, subcontracting, and overheads. An ethical and data protection statement is also required.
Important Dates
- Open Call Launch: July 2025
- Submission Deadline: 24 October 2025
- Evaluation: November – December 2025
- Project Execution: February 2026 – July 2026 (possible extension to October 2026)
Final Thoughts on HEDGE-IoT Open Call
This is your chance to drive Europe’s smart energy transition. If you’re an SME or start-up building data-driven IoT, AI, or edge solutions for energy, HEDGE-IoT Open Call 1 offers funding, visibility, and real pilot opportunities.
Stay tuned for upcoming Info Day sessions on the official website and get direct support on your proposal!
More Information
- Project website hedgeiot.eu/open-call
- Apply via F6S
- Open Call Guidelines
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