PhotonQBoost Open Call for Matching Mission to Poland

Description

The PhotonQBoost project supports European SMEs in adopting Photonics and Quantum technologies to enhance sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness across sectors. As part of this project, one of the key initiatives are the Cross-Border Matching Missions, designed to foster international collaboration. The PhotonQBoost Matching Mission to Poland, taking place in Warsaw from 21–23 October 2025 and focused on the Agrifood and Biotech sectors, is a fully funded opportunity aimed at bringing together innovative European SMEs and Polish ecosystem actors working in Photonics and/or Quantum technologies. This will be achieved through an international delegation visit to Warsaw. This Open Call targets SMEs active in Photonics and/or Quantum technologies that are looking to: ·   Explore cross-border collaboration ·   Connect with innovation actors in Poland ·   Apply advanced technologies to green and digital transitions

Beneficiary & submission

All applications must be submitted through the official online platform at online submission platform. Submissions via other channels will not be accepted. To assist applicants, a set of resources is available, including the Guidelines for Applicants, an offline application template, and access to the online form. The evaluation process involves four steps: Eligibility check: an eligibility check confirms basic criteria such as SME status, country of establishment, and completeness of the submission. Quality assessment (motivation, team, country balance): Eligible applications are then reviewed by two internal experts who assess the proposal based on motivation, team profile, and contribution to geographic diversity. Each criterion is scored from 0 to 5, and only proposals that meet the minimum thresholds proceed. Score normalisation: Scores are then normalised to ensure fairness. If large discrepancies occur between reviewers, a consensus review may be held. Final ranking and selection: Final selection is based on total score, with tie-breakers applied where necessary, favouring diversity and relevance. Results will be communicated via the platform. Selected SMEs will undergo legal validation and sign a Sub-Grant Agreement to confirm participation.

Further information

Eligibility: ·The SME is legally established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country. ·The SME has been registered for at least 6 months before the OC deadline. ·The organisation qualifies as an SME under EU rules. ·Applicants must not be consortium partners affiliates, or subcontractors. Note: Applicants who are not eligible for funding under this Open Call — including entities legally established in the hosting country (Poland) or large companies — or those choosing not to apply for funding may still apply to participate in the mission. In such cases, selection will be based on Expression of Interest, and the host will make the final decision. Selected SMEs will benefit from: ·Pre-mission support and logistics ·Matchmaking, site visits, and workshops ·Post-mission advisory and funding opportunities Funding: ·€610 flat-rate per SME ·Paid after full participation and feedback submission For full details, please consult the official call documentation available at PhotonQBoost website. For further support, applicants may contact the Helpdesk at photonqboost@eura-ag.de.