Close to 400 applications to ELISE’s open call for SME’s

The ELISE network of artificial intelligence research hubs received applications from altogether 35 countries, with Germany being the country with most applications.

ELISE’s first open call for SME’s received altogether 391 applications. The country with most applicants was Germany with 45 applications, followed soon behind by Spain (41), Italy (38), and the UK and Netherlands with each 35.

Altogether, ELISE received applications from 35 countries.

The main focus areas of the applications were machine learning and computer vision (35 %), health (33 %), and natural language processing (23%). A large portion of the applications aimed at producing positive environmental and social impact.

ELISE is a network of artificial intelligence research hubs. It is coordinated by ELLIS Unit Helsinki, which is hosted by FCAI.

A part of ELISE’s budget is allocated as financial support for third parties, in particular towards SMEs. The idea is to initiate micro-projects for developing novel services and applications of AI to the challenges defined by the project stakeholders. Each project has a budget of up to 60 000 euros.

The application period for the first open call was open until 1 July 2021.