About

The SMART ERA project is launching its second Open Call for Followers Micro-Pilots to expand adoption of its methodologies and innovation strategies across new regions. The programme aims to transfer SMART ERA results to follower regions, engage local communities, and demonstrate replicability through co-designed Smart Innovation Packages (SIPs). Selected projects will establish up to four Micro-Pilots that address regional challenges while tailoring solutions to local needs.

Successful applicants will participate in a twelve-month support programme delivered by SMART ERA Technical Partners, structured in three stages: On-boarding (up to two months, including an Individual Mentoring Plan), Mobilisation (up to three months, including a Community Engagement Report), and Deployment (up to seven months, culminating in the technical solution).

Funding is provided as lump sums based on application format. Consortia may receive up to €90,000, with €30,000 allocated to the Community Activator and €60,000 to the Pilot Orchestrator/Technical Provider. Individual applicants capable of fulfilling both roles may receive up to €60,000.

Eligibility

Applications are open to consortia composed of two entities or to eligible individual applicants. A consortium must include one Community Activator, such as a local public administration, university, NGO, association, or other organisation with strong community ties in a follower region, together with one Pilot Orchestrator, which must be an SME or Technical Provider responsible for the technical implementation and deployment of the Smart Innovation Package. The participation of a technology provider is mandatory. Individual applicants may also apply if they are a single legal entity capable of effectively fulfilling both the Community Activator and Pilot Orchestrator roles. All applicants must meet the eligibility requirements, complete the evaluation process, and sign a Subgrant Agreement with the SMART ERA Consortium to participate in the support programme.

Post Date: July 16, 2026