For whom? 

The Digital Europe Programme targets companies, knowledge institutions, and government organizations involved in the development and implementation of digital technologies and services. 

Main Work Programme

With a budget of €1.3 billion, the main work programme focuses on the following priorities:

• Encouraging international cooperation through partnerships such as European Digital Infrastructure Consortiums (EDICs). The focus includes generative AI, virtual worlds, and energy-efficient data ecosystems.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is boosted in sectors such as healthcare and public services, supported by test environments, the implementation of the AI Act, and initiatives like Destination Earth.
• Cybersecurity measures enhance European cyber resilience, including through the EU Cybersecurity Reserve and securing Europes digital infrastructure.
• Digital skills and training programs in emerging technologies such as AI and quantum ensure a future-proof and inclusive talent pool.
• The development of secure and efficient digital public services, focusing on good, free inter- and cross-border cooperation and the rollout of the EU Digital Identity Wallet.

Cybersecurity Work Programme 

With a budget of €390 million, the Cybersecurity Work Programme focuses on:

• Development and implementation of AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, including generative AI and reliable, secure AI models. 
• Support for cybersecurity in SMEs by improving the market readiness of solutions and encouraging adoption by businesses.
• Preparation for the transition of public key infrastructure to post-quantum encryption, including the construction of a European test infrastructure.
• Supporting the implementation of EU legislation such as the NIS2 Directive, the Cyber Resilience Act, and the Cybersecurity Act.
• Securing critical infrastructures, such as hospitals and undersea cables.
• Developing cybersecurity capabilities and skills of organizations and individuals, and increasing awareness around cybersecurity.

Additional National Funding 

The Ministry of Economic Affairs provides additional funding (national co-financing) through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) for topics not fully funded by the European program. With this co-financing, Dutch parties can get a larger portion of their project costs reimbursed. The topics eligible for national co-financing are expected to be announced on our website in early May. 

When to apply?

You can submit an application to the European Commission from April 3, 2025, for the first call (consolidation of the network of European Digital Innovation Hubs). The other topics in the first series of calls open on April 15, 2025.