The aim of the programme is to enable Hungarian research institutes and higher education institutions to become active contributors to the digital innovation and AI-based development of businesses. It is important to note that the call is currently still in draft form and may therefore be subject to change.
What does the call focus on?
The call focuses on three priority professional areas:
- AI-based human resource management,
- AI-based cybersecurity,
- autonomous systems built on artificial intelligence.
Applicants may submit a project proposal for only one professional area.
Who can apply?
The scheme is primarily open to higher education institutions, research institutes, non-profit organisations and research networks. Applications may also be submitted in consortium form, which can be particularly advantageous for complex projects combining several areas of expertise.
An important condition is that applicants must be able to demonstrate:
- relevant AI-based research and development experience,
- professional publications or methodological materials,
- adequate expert capacities,
- as well as cooperation arrangements with market players.
Higher education institutions affected by the governance model change are not eligible for funding.
How much funding is available?
The available funding amounts vary by professional area:
- AI-based HR solutions: HUF 800 million – HUF 3.08 billion
- AI-based cybersecurity: HUF 500 – 800 million
- AI-based autonomous systems: HUF 800 million – HUF 1.8 billion
According to the draft call, funding applications may be submitted electronically between 29 May 2026 and 28 July 2026. Projects may be implemented over a maximum period of 36 months and may be carried out anywhere in Hungary.
What types of developments are eligible?
The programme does not focus solely on research and development projects, but aims to create complete digital innovation ecosystems. Eligible activities include:
- the establishment of digital research workshops,
- the development of AI-based demonstration environments,
- expert and mentoring services provided to businesses,
- RDI activities,
- IT developments,
- international cooperation,
- workshops, ecosystem events and knowledge-sharing activities,
- as well as the provision of digital infrastructure for SMEs.
A key element is the creation of demonstration environments where businesses can test their AI solutions in real-life conditions before live implementation.
SMEs can also benefit
Although research institutes are expected to be the primary direct applicants, Hungarian SMEs are among the programme’s most important target groups. The digital research workshops established under the programme can provide them with practical support through technological mentoring, data management and AI consultancy, validation support, cybersecurity assistance and access to demonstration infrastructure. This can significantly contribute to enabling Hungarian SMEs to carry out their digital transition and introduce AI-based solutions with lower risk and better-informed decisions.
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