Dear reader,  

Our Open Call is launched!! In this article you can find information about the programme and phases of the Open Call together with the submission requirements.

In the light of the current COVID-19 crisis, it is essential to further stimulate the development of digital innovations which can tackle the challenges currently faced by the agri-food sector. Considering this, SmartAgriHubs has investigated the possibilities for funding innovation that helps our sector in these trying times. The SAH Open Call will consist of a three-phase programme. The first phase is the RESPOND phase. Thereafter, the second and third will follow, namely the RESTART and EXPAND phase will provide more opportunities for applying for the open call. The SAH Open Call programme shall help to mobilise initiatives, either by further expanding regional and international networks supported by Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) or by supporting hackathon activities.

As of this week, the first phase with Open Calls is open, bringing possibilities for funding related to the COVID-19 crisis. During the RESPOND phase, the SAH community will directly tackle the challenges faced in the agri-food sector due to the current crisis. The focus of the RESPOND Open Calls is on hackathon type of activities proposing solutions to minimise the effects of the current crisis.  Additionally, these activities will help identify what role digital innovations can play to mitigate the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in the agri-food domain.

The RESPOND Open Call is open between the 12th of May and 3rd of June 2020. If you want to participate in this open call, there are two possibilities, either for DIHs or SMEs: 

For Digital Innovation Hubs: 
Proposals must include at least one DIH. SmartAgriHubs considers that proposals requesting a contribution from 10,000 to 30,000 Euro would allow to support the realisation of activities appropriately.  

For Small and Medium Enterprises, including Startups: 
Proposals are submitted by SMEs/Startups aiming at direct realisation of digital innovations mitigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the agri-food sector. SmartAgriHubs considers that proposals requesting a contribution from 30,000 to 50,000 Euro would allow to support the realisation of activities appropriately.  

Do you want to know more? You can find more detailed information on our SAH innovation portal. Make sure you are logged in when you want to acquire the information.