The new FAIR Call for Ideas to transform research into startups and businesses
Milan, June 2025 – The FAIR Foundation officially opens applications for the AI Future Creators Award, an initiative designed to enhance high-tech ideas and support them through a free acceleration programme, with the goal of turning research into business ventures in the field of artificial intelligence.
Through this call, FAIR aims to foster technology transfer from research centers to the market, providing concrete support to those who want to translate scientific results into innovative entrepreneurial solutions. The programme is open to researchers, startups, and spin-offs already part of the FAIR ecosystem, particularly those who have participated in or been awarded FAIR cascade calls.
Selected projects—up to a maximum of ten—will gain access to an intensive programme lasting approximately four months. This represents a concrete opportunity to receive tailored mentorship, take part in training activities focused on both technological and business development, engage with investors and stakeholders, and test ideas within the FAIR scientific community. The programme also includes networking opportunities, validation phases, and pitch sessions, supporting participants in shaping scalable and sustainable business models.
The AI Future Creators Award is designed to stimulate the creation of high-impact ventures, strengthening the national AI ecosystem and promoting an entrepreneurial culture rooted in research and innovation. An invitation to imagine the future—and start building it together.
How to apply for the AI Future Creators Award
To apply, candidates must submit their application by July 5, 2025, completing the required documents and sending them via certified email (PEC) to bandifair@pec.it. Applicants may also include a video pitch of up to three minutes to present their project in a more direct and engaging way.
Proposals will be evaluated by a FAIR-appointed committee based on criteria such as originality, alignment with the Foundation’s objectives, technical and economic feasibility, market potential, and the quality of the proposing team. Only proposals meeting the minimum evaluation threshold will be admitted to the acceleration programme.
To learn more about how to apply and the selection criteria, click here.