New funding initiative by IFB Hamburg for AI and robotics
IFB Hamburg is launching a new funding initiative aimed at strengthening the field of AI and robotics in Hamburg. A total of up to 5 million euros will be made available for innovative research and development projects carried out by companies and the universities and research institutions collaborating with them.
What is being funded
The funding addresses key future technologies at the interface of robotics, autonomous systems and artificial intelligence:
Autonomous systems and robotics
Development, integration and application of autonomous physical systems, including associated components and control technologies.Agent-based AI systems
Development of intelligent software systems with autonomous decision-making and action capabilities, as well as their integration into technical systems and operational processes.IT security solutions for AI and robotics
Development of solutions to ensure IT security and system security, as well as robust and trustworthy AI.
To enable the eligibility of an idea to be assessed in advance, a 2–3-page project outline must be submitted by 30 June 2026. As the first projects are scheduled to start by the end of 2026, the first funding applications must be received by 30 September 2026. Before submitting the outline, IFB Hamburg must be contacted by telephone or email. Eligible to apply are companies and consortia of companies that have a place of business in Hamburg, as well as universities and research institutions with a place of business in Hamburg, provided they are cooperation partners of an applicant company. The project must not have started before approval is granted. An information event will take place on 4 June, which will cover this funding programme, amongst other topics.
Grants of up to 500,000 euros or individual projects and up to 2 million euros for collaborative projects
The funding rate depends on the size of the company and the nature of the project. It is generally between 25% and 60%.
Universities and research institutions are eligible for funding at a rate of up to 100%. Their share of the total project costs must be at least 10% and should not exceed 40%.
