AI funding in Austria 2026: what is still open
Many programmes are used up or closed in 2026. This overview shows the status, so you do not lose time on a closed programme.
As of: 24 September 2026
Programmes at a glance
| Programme | Who | Funding | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIGITAL.PLUS 26 (Upper Austria and WKOÖ) | SMEs in Upper Austria with WKO membership. Not for recipients of Digital Starter 2023/24 or DIGITAL.PLUS 2025. | 35 %, max. € 7,000, from € 12,000 project costs. Automation, data and AI, cybersecurity. | Applications until 2 November 2026 while budget lasts. On 21 September, 75 % was allocated. |
| FFG Innovationsscheck mit Selbstbehalt 2026 | SMEs | 80 %, max. € 10,000, from € 12,500 project costs. Work only by research institutions. | Open until 2 November 2026, 11:00 |
| FFG AI Ökosysteme 2026 | Consortia with a research partner | € 100,000 to € 1m, up to 85 %. Research and development. | Deadline 6 October 2026, 12:00 |
| KMU.DIGITAL 4.0 (WKO) | SMEs | Consulting and implementation | Budget used up |
| aws AI-Adoption | Companies | up to € 150,000 | Closed since 28 February 2025, no new call announced |
What counts for DIGITAL.PLUS 26
- External consulting and IT services must make up at least 20 % of the project costs.
- Digital marketing is excluded, as are standard hardware and standard software.
- Settlement by 31 March 2027.
How we help
We plan an AI or automation project with you so that scope, cost and benefit are clear. Whether and which funding fits, you check with the funding body. We provide the project description and the quote for it.
See our servicesFrequently asked questions
Does KMU.DIGITAL still exist?
According to kmudigital.at, the KMU.DIGITAL 4.0 budget is used up. Check there whether a follow-up programme is open.
Can psquared be billed through the FFG Innovationsscheck?
No. For the Innovationsscheck, the work must be done by research institutions such as universities or universities of applied sciences. A consultancy is not eligible.
Is software funded?
DIGITAL.PLUS 26 excludes standard hardware and standard software. It funds projects in which external consulting or IT services make up a substantial part.
Sources
- WKO: DIGITAL.PLUS 26 Upper Austria (German)
- FFG: Innovationsscheck mit Selbstbehalt 2026 (German)
- FFG: calls
- KMU.DIGITAL
- aws: AI for companies
Funding conditions change. The guidelines of the funding body apply.
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