Manufacturing SMEs can obtain up to EUR 50,000 in financial support for the implementation of technological and operational solutions that contribute to the digital, green and socially sustainable transition under the European MANTRA project. The call is open until 30 September 2026.
The EU-funded MANTRA project supports the transformation of European manufacturing SMEs and connects companies with relevant technology solution providers. In addition to financial support, it provides companies with access to professional services, mentoring, training and networking with technology partners.
Within the current open call, two opportunities for cooperation are available – for manufacturing SMEs and for technology solution providers (Tech-Savvy Providers).
Support for manufacturing SMEs
The call is open to small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in the following sectors:
ceramics (NACE C23),
food industry (NACE C10-C11),
textile industry (NACE C13-C15),
plastics (NACE C22),
Metalworking industry (NACE C24-C25).
Selected companies can benefit from three free specialist support services in the first six months, designed to identify their needs and prepare them for the transformation.
This is followed by connecting with appropriate providers of technological solutions, and companies can obtain up to EUR 50,000 in financial support for the implementation of up to three technological or operational services.
Support can be of interest to companies that want to digitise production processes, reduce waste, improve energy or material efficiency, introduce new technologies or develop more sustainable production models, for example.
Application deadline: September 30, 2026.
Application for manufacturing SMEs:
https://app.mantra-project.eu/application-definition/443
Instructions for applicants:
https://mantra-project.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/MANTRA_Guidelines-for-Applicants_OC2.V1.3-1.pdf
Opportunity also for technology solution providers
MANTRA also invites technologically advanced companies and solution providers that can help manufacturing SMEs in the digital and green transition to participate.
The project seeks expertise and solutions in areas such as advanced manufacturing, innovative materials, artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, big data, blockchain, cloud computing, connectivity, biotechnology, Internet of Things (IoT), microelectronics, nanotechnology, photonics, robotics and cybersecurity.
By participating in the MANTRA community, providers can:
showcase their technologies and expertise;
connect with manufacturing SMEs looking for concrete solutions;
offer tailored technology support according to the needs of companies,
obtain financing for the services they provide to participating SMEs when successfully integrated;
become part of the European ecosystem for innovation in manufacturing.
Application deadline: September 30, 2026.
Application for Technology Solution Providers:
https://app.mantra-project.eu/application-definition/444
Guidance for Technology Solution Providers:
https://mantra-project.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/MANTRA_EoI_-tech-savvy-guidelines.pdf
More information and registration
The MANTRA call is open until September 30, 2026.
More information about the project and the current open call can be found at:
https://mantra-project.eu/
Companies can also use a self-assessment tool to check their readiness and transformation needs:
https://mantra.cetim.fr/auth/welcome?next=%2F