COSMIC’s first Open Call for AI and big data solutions surpasses all expectations
The first COSMIC Open Call officially closed on 27 October 2025, and the response has been nothing short of exceptional. COSMIC initially aimed to attract around 120 applications, yet interest from innovators across Europe and beyond far exceeded these expectations. More than 1,100 applications were started, and an impressive 359 were submitted, with over 130 arriving in the final two days alone. This remarkable engagement demonstrates both the urgency and enthusiasm surrounding AI-driven energy optimisation.
The call also drew a highly international audience. Applications came from 31 countries, with the highest numbers from Spain (51), Italy (49), Greece (44) and Türkiye (41). France, Germany and the United Kingdom followed closely with 14 applications each. This geographic diversity highlights a strong Europe-wide commitment to advancing sustainable energy through digital innovation.
All 17 COSMIC challenges received submissions, reflecting the broad relevance of the project’s focus areas. Some challenges attracted particularly significant attention. Industrial Energy Community Optimisation emerged as the most popular topic with 59 applications. Real-Time Resource Consumption Prediction followed with 53 applications, while Predictive Maintenance for PV Plants received 34. Apps for Consumers and Smart Waste Management also stood out with 32 and 24 applications respectively. These trends point to a clear market interest in flexibility optimisation, real-time prediction, renewable asset management, consumer-level digital tools and circular economy solutions.
With the submission phase now closed, COSMIC has entered the evaluation stage. Technical partners, challenge owners and FundingBox experts will jointly review all proposals to identify the most promising third-party innovators. Selected applicants will receive funding and mentoring and will test their solutions across COSMIC’s 15 large-scale pilots, gaining real-world validation within an AI-driven ecosystem.
Updates on the evaluation process will follow soon. Stay tuned to COSMIC channels for the next announcements.
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