Call for Pilots within the European data space for smart communities

Context

The European Data Space for Smart Communities (DS4SSCC-DEP), funded under the Digital Europe Programme, has opened a call for pilots to support the development and real-world validation of a cross-sectoral European data space for cities and communities. The initiative focuses on enabling secure, interoperable data sharing across domains to advance policy priorities such as the green and digital transition, while refining a common data space blueprint through practical pilot implementations.

Topics

Applicants must propose pilot projects that develop data-driven services based on cross-sectoral data sharing, covering at least two of the following domains:

• Predictive traffic management and sustainable mobility

• Climate, weather, and extreme event data services

• Energy flow management in urban or community contexts

• Zero pollution actions (air, water, soil, waste)

• Other domains aligned with the New European Bauhaus (e.g. urban design, building management, public services etc.)

Eligibility Criteria

1. Consortia must include at least two local or regional public administrations from Member States or DEP associated countries

2. Other eligible entities are, for example, companies, academia, and NGOs

3. Entities must not be controlled from a country that is not an eligible country

Funding

• Budget per pilot: 250.000-500.000 EUR

• Number of funded pilots: approximately 10

• The grant will cover maximum 50% of the eligible costs

Timeline

• The deadline to submit applications is set to 31 May 2026, 23:59 Brussels time.