The FFplus Innovation Studies Open Call is now open, offering European SMEs and start-ups a focused opportunity to develop and validate generative AI (GenAI) solutions using large-scale European supercomputing resources. The call opens on 3 February 2026 and targets early-stage, high-impact projects with a clear proof-of-concept orientation.
Coordinated by HLRS (High-Performance Computing Center Stuttgart), FFplus supports innovation at the intersection of AI and HPC, enabling companies to overcome computational barriers and scale beyond conventional cloud or on-premise infrastructures.
Key facts
- Funding: up to €300,000 per project
- Deadline: 25 February 2026 (or earlier if 250 proposals are submitted)
- Eligible applicants: European SMEs and start-ups
Scope and impact
The call supports feasibility studies and PoCs for GenAI use cases such as:
- Training or fine-tuning large language and multimodal models
- Generative design, simulation, and optimization workflows
- AI-driven data synthesis and advanced analytics across multiple sectors
Selected projects gain access to EuroHPC-class supercomputers, expert technical support, and increased visibility within the European innovation ecosystem. National Competence Centres within the EuroCC play a key role in supporting applicants.
Support from NCC Montenegro
The NCC Montenegro is available to support SMEs and start-ups from Montenegro during the proposal preparation phase, including:
- Clarification of call scope and eligibility
- Guidance on aligning use cases with HPC and GenAI requirements
- Initial technical advice on suitable architectures and workloads
Apply here: https://www.ffplus-project.eu/en/open-call/innovation-studies/
Given the capped number of proposals, early engagement and submission are strongly encouraged.