As January 2026 draws to a close, several strategic funding windows within the Eureka network are set to shut. For innovators based in Canada, these programs offer a vital pathway to de-risk international R&D and scale technologies globally.
Here is an overview of the key programs currently open for application:
Globalstars Call with Japan
- Deadline: January 21, 2026
- Overview: This program facilitates industrial R&D between Canada and Japan. It is open to nearly all sectors, including AI, Robotics, Semiconductors, and Medical Devices.
- Goal: To develop innovative products or services with a clear path to commercialization. Projects typically last between 12 to 36 months and require at least one independent legal entity from Japan and one from another Eureka country like Canada.
SMART 9th Call (Advanced Manufacturing)
- Deadline: January 22, 2026
- Overview: SMART is a “bottom-up” program focused on advanced manufacturing. It allows companies to propose projects that align with the SMART technology roadmap.
- Goal: To support Industry 4.0 initiatives and modernize manufacturing processes through collaborative international innovation.
Xecs Call 5 (Electronic Systems)
- Deadline: January 22, 2026
- Overview: Xecs focuses on the Electronic Components and Systems (ECS) value chain. It is ideal for projects involving microelectronics, digital transformation, and sustainable hardware.
- Goal: To boost digital sovereignty and support the development of next-generation electronic systems and software.
Eurostars (Innovative SMEs)
- Deadline: March 19, 2026 (Opens Jan 16, 2026)
- Overview: Eurostars is the flagship program for R&D performing SMEs. The project must be led by an innovative SME, and at least 50% of the budget must go to SME partners.
- Goal: To fund international collaborative projects that result in a marketable product within two years of the project’s end.
Open Call for Network Projects
- Deadline: Continuous (Open until Jan 1, 2030)
- Overview: This is a flexible, year-round instrument for international R&D projects in any field.
- Goal: To facilitate market-oriented R&D between Eureka countries with a simple, decentralized application process.
The Path to a Successful Application
Eureka applications are evaluated based on Impact (market size/risk), Excellence (degree of innovation), and Quality of Implementation (consortium balance).
Is your innovation ready? Contact our funding specialists today to validate your eligibility and finalize your consortium agreements before these critical January deadlines.
