Overview
AI Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs) are large-scale EU-funded facilities that provide AI companies with access to real-world testing environments across four critical sectors. They offer physical and virtual testing, regulatory sandboxes, reference datasets, and expert support. TEFs help AI companies validate their products, comply with the EU AI Act, and access cascade funding. They're a critical bridge between lab-validated AI and market-deployed AI in Europe.
Eligibility
- 1AI companies, startups, and SMEs with solutions at TRL 6-8
- 2Must have an AI product/service ready for real-world testing
- 3Four sectors: Healthcare, Agri-Food, Manufacturing, Smart Cities & Communities
- 4Open to entities from EU Member States and associated countries
How to Apply
- 1
Identify which TEF matches your AI solution: Healthcare, Agri-Food, Manufacturing, or Smart Cities
- 2
Apply through the specific TEF's open call (each TEF manages its own calls)
- 3
Proposals are evaluated on AI readiness, market potential, and testing plan
- 4
Selected companies receive access to testing facilities and may receive cascade funding
- 5
Testing results and certification support help with EU AI Act compliance
Typical Budget Breakdown
2026 Deadlines
Key Features
Frequently Asked Questions
The four AI TEFs cover: (1) Healthcare AI — medical imaging, diagnostics, treatment planning; (2) Agri-Food AI — crop monitoring, food quality, supply chain; (3) Manufacturing AI — predictive maintenance, quality control, robotics; (4) Smart Cities & Communities — mobility, energy, public services.
AI TEFs provide regulatory sandboxes and testing environments aligned with EU AI Act requirements. They help companies test their AI systems against conformity assessment criteria, generate documentation for regulatory compliance, and prepare for certification under the Act.
AI TEFs primarily provide access to testing facilities and services. However, many TEFs also offer cascade funding (small grants of €50K-€200K) to SMEs using their facilities. The exact funding depends on the specific TEF and its open calls.
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