As part of the Lazio Region’s “Potenziamento Rete Spazio Attivo” project under the PR Lazio FESR 2021–2027 program, the second edition of Call4Innovation Open Energy Lab has been launched. This initiative aims to foster the development of innovative solutions supporting the energy transition. Building on Lazio Innova’s Open Innovation program launched in 2025, the call seeks to enhance the competitiveness and sustainable growth of SMEs by creating collaboration opportunities with corporates, investors, and ecosystem players.
Program Objectives
• Support the development of a technological and industrial value chain for energy transition innovations, including hydrogen, storage systems, photovoltaics, wind, geothermal, energy efficiency, smart grids, and nuclear
• Foster collaboration between companies to co-develop innovative technologies and solutions
• Strengthen innovative SMEs and startups through matchmaking with corporations, venture capital firms, and scale-ups
Eligibility Criteria
• Open to companies with innovative solutions at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) ≥ 6
Program Benefits
• Innovation Day Energia: Participation in a flagship event in Rome on 7 May 2026, featuring pitching sessions, matchmaking meetings, and training activities
• Enhancement Program: Access to a tailored program designed to strengthen business capabilities and support market expansion
• Industry Events Participation: Opportunities to attend key European sector events (e.g., Brussels)
• Digital Catalog Visibility: Inclusion in a digital catalog shared with stakeholders and promoted through Lazio Innova channels
Application and Selection Process
• Phase 1 – Application & Selection:
Applications must be submitted via the online form by 17 April 2026, 17:00 GMT+1.
A jury composed of Lazio Innova representatives and partner organizations will evaluate submissions. Up to 15 solutions will be selected.
• Phase 2 – Training:
Selected teams will participate in a preparation program for pitching and matchmaking sessions.
• Phase 3 – Innovation Day Energia:
Finalists will present their solutions and engage in curated matchmaking meetings during the event in Rome on 7 May 2026.
Areas of Interest
• Hydrogen: Green and turquoise hydrogen generation, storage, and transport solutions
• Storage Systems: Alternatives to lithium batteries and large-scale grid storage solutions
• Photovoltaics: Advanced solutions including perovskite, organic materials, and multilayer technologies
• Nuclear: Fusion components, superconductors, and plant safety systems (including cybersecurity)
• Energy Efficiency: Sustainable insulation materials and industrial heat generation systems
• Smart Grids: Distributed storage and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solutions
• Wind Power: Advanced materials, reblading systems, and aerodynamic optimization technologies
• Geothermal: Deep drilling innovations and closed-loop geothermal systems
This initiative provides a high-impact platform for innovative companies in the energy sector to accelerate growth. Through targeted support, strategic partnerships, and increased visibility, participants can scale their solutions and contribute to the global energy transition.