From technologies promoting independence for people with disabilities to cutting-edge research in robotics and artificial intelligence
Two opportunities to nurture talent, support research and bring to light technological solutions capable of making a tangible difference to people’s lives.
There are currently two calls for proposals open, promoted by the Fondazione Mondo Digitale ETS: Digital4Human, dedicated to technologies for accessibility and independence for people with disabilities, and the fifth edition of the Most Promising Researcher in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence award, aimed at young researchers working in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence.
These are two initiatives that differ in terms of target audience, objectives and application deadlines, but which share the same vision: to recognise innovation that goes beyond the purely technological and translates knowledge, creativity and research into social impact.
Digital4Human: inclusive technologies
The deadline for applications to Digital4Human is 10 September 2026. ‘Innovation that includes’ is a competition launched as part of Job Digital Lab, the programme promoted by the Fondazione Mondo Digitale in collaboration with ING Italia, with the participation of Ausilioteca Roma and the Istituto Leonarda Vaccari. The call for applications is aimed at technological solutions capable of promoting accessibility, independence and social participation for people with disabilities. Eligible entries include advanced digital tools, smart devices, interactive systems, robots, sensors, platforms, artificial intelligence applications, augmented and virtual reality, or solutions that integrate different technologies. We are not looking for simple ideas, but working prototypes, beta versions or projects that have already been trialled in at least one real-world context – such as school, home, work or the community – with the direct involvement of the people for whom the solution is intended. Eligible participants include innovators and researchers, project groups, university teams and academic spin-offs, start-ups, associations, third-sector organisations, foundations, non-profit organisations, consortia, laboratories and research institutes. Each application must include at least one person under the age of 35 in a key role; in the case of an individual application, the applicant must be under 35. The five finalist projects will be announced on 20 October and invited to present their solutions on 3 December 2026, to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The winning project will be awarded a prize of 3,000 euros.
Deadline: 10 September 2026
Find out more about the Digital4Human call for proposals and submit your application.
An award for the future of research
The second opportunity focuses on cutting-edge research. To mark the RomeCup 2027, the Fondazione Mondo Digitale, in collaboration with the Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, is organising the fifth edition of the Most Promising Researcher in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence award.
The award is open to young researchers and PhD students engaged in research in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. The aim is to recognise not only the scientific quality of the projects, but also creativity, vision, perseverance and the ability to contribute, through research, to the development and progress of society. PhD students, PhD graduates and researchers who have not yet reached the age of 34 and who are carrying out their work in Italy at universities, research centres, institutes or other public and private organisations are eligible to apply.
The application must describe the relevance and innovativeness of the research, the level of technological maturity and the potential scientific, social and economic impact. The jury will also take into account publications, awards, patents, the candidate’s personal contribution and professional background.
The winner will receive a cash prize of 20,000 euros. Applications must be submitted by midnight on 28 February 2027.
Deadline: 28 February 2027
View the ‘Most Promising Researcher in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence’ call for applications and submit your application.
Two deadlines to note in your diary and two opportunities to recognise those who use technology and research to open up new possibilities: for autonomy, participation, knowledge and development.
