Digital Europe Programme
The Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) represents a significant €8.1 billion EU investment aimed at advancing digital transformation across Europe. This initiative offers substantial opportunities for university researchers in the EU and Norway, focusing on areas such as supercomputing, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, advanced digital skills, and the widespread use of digital technologies. Researchers seeking funding to propel their work forward should consider exploring this programme.

Hovedinnhold
The Digital Europe Programme is part of the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027, complementing other EU funding initiatives like Horizon Europe. The programme aims to bolster Europe's digital capacities and ensure that these technologies are widely used by Europe's citizens and businesses. DIGITAL encompasses several key capacity areas:
High-Performance Computing: Providing world-class supercomputing and data processing capabilities for scientific research, industry, and public administration.
Artificial Intelligence: Supporting the development and adoption of trustworthy AI solutions that uphold EU values and fundamental rights.
Cybersecurity: Enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure, networks, and data while promoting cybersecurity skills and competencies.
Advanced Digital Skills: Addressing digital expertise shortages and offering training opportunities for professionals across various sectors.
Deployment and Best Use of Digital Capacities: Ensuring effective adoption and utilization of digital technologies by businesses (particularly SMEs), public administrations, and citizens through European Digital Innovation Hubs and other initiatives.
Who is it for?
The Digital Europe Programme is open to a diverse range of participants, including:
Research organizations, universities, and academic institutions
Public authorities at local, regional, national, or European levels
Private entities, including SMEs and start-ups
Non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations
International organizations
Eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific call for proposals.
Targeted Disciplines:
DIGITAL supports projects linked to its key capacity areas, often necessitating interdisciplinary collaboration.
How to apply
To apply for funding, applicants must participate in calls for proposals announced regularly by the European Commission on the official Funding and Tenders Portal. Proposals are evaluated based on the criteria specified in each call, with submission deadlines varying accordingly.
For detailed guidance, refer to the official UiB Guide to EU applications.
Financing Level
The Digital Europe Programme operates on a co-financing model, covering up to 50% of eligible costs. Clear guidelines are provided regarding eligible expenses.
For more information, consult the Norwegian Digitalization Agency, which holds national responsibility for overseeing Norway's participation in the Digital Europe Programme.
Depending on the type of action, local advisors, such as those at the Research and Innovation Department (FIA) or student administration, may assist in navigating the application process.