Open Call 2 FFplus
The second call for innovation studies (Open Call 2 – Type 2) of the FFplus project (Fortissimo Plus) aims to support European SMEs and start-ups in the development and customization of generative AI models through the use of high performance computing (HPC) resources, including pre-exascale and exascale systems.
The initiative is part of the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking programme to boost technological competitiveness in Europe
Objectives
Innovation studies should:
- Focus on the development or customization of generative AI models (e.g. foundation models, LLMs), using European HPC resources.
- Be linked to a real business case, justifying why a new model or improvement is needed to solve a specific challenge.
- Present a clear plan of objectives, methodology, data use, performance metrics and data management plan (FAIR, ethics and privacy)
Who can participate?
- Organisations established in EU Member States or EEA countries associated with the Digital Europe programme.
- SMEs (SMEs) and start-ups with skills in generative AI, software development and data processing.
- Individual or consortium participation, always with a SME or start-up as main participant.
- Individuals are not eligible
Consortium
- The main participant must be an SME or start-up; up to 2 support participants may be involved (for example, research centres or technical partners).
Financing and budgeting
- Total budget of the call: approx. €4 million.
- Financing at 100% of the eligible direct costs.
- Maximum per innovation study: € 300,000 (including all participants).
- Of this total, the principal SME may receive up to €200,000.
More Information
This information is disseminated through the DIGIS3 project. DIHBU, as a member of DIGIS3, can help you submit a proposal for this funding opportunity through its support services, which are free for SMEs
