Digital technologies, advanced industry, and strategic space capabilities are critical pillars of Europe's competitiveness and resilience. Under Cluster 4 – Digital, Industry and Space, the Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025 channels major investment into future-proof innovations that support the twin green and digital transitions, ensure technological sovereignty, and drive sustainable economic growth.
This article explores the key focus areas, funding priorities, and expected outcomes of Cluster 4 — a cornerstone of Horizon Europe’s ambitions for a digital, human-centric, and sustainable future.
The Role of Cluster 4
Cluster 4 tackles pressing challenges in three interconnected domains:
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Digital technologies that are safe, inclusive, and trustworthy
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Industry transformation to a greener, more circular, and digitally enabled production model
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Space research and innovation that supports EU autonomy, security, and Earth observation
By investing in cutting-edge technologies and industrial ecosystems, this cluster supports the EU’s Open Strategic Autonomy, the Digital Decade, the Green Deal, and the Competitiveness Compass for the EU.
Key Destinations in Cluster 4
The 2025 Work Programme defines six destinations that guide R&I activities:
1. Climate neutral, circular and digitised production
Focuses on:
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Green manufacturing and clean industrial processes
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AI- and data-driven productivity
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Advanced materials and resource efficiency
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Decarbonisation and resilience of energy-intensive industries
2. Increased autonomy in key strategic value chains
Supports:
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Semiconductor and microelectronics innovation
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Raw material security
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Sustainable batteries and zero-defect manufacturing
3. World-leading data and computing technologies
Targets:
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Federated data infrastructures
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Quantum computing and simulation
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High-performance computing (HPC) accessibility
4. Digital and emerging technologies for competitiveness and sustainability
Focus areas:
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Human-centric Artificial Intelligence
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Edge computing and low-power electronics
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Trustworthy AI, aligned with EU values
5. Open strategic autonomy in developing, deploying and using space-based infrastructures
Includes:
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Secure satellite communications
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Autonomous space operations and services
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EU space surveillance, traffic management, and sustainability
6. A human-centred and ethical development of digital and industrial technologies
Supports:
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Skills development, tech adoption, and social impact assessment
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Gender equity and ethical tech frameworks
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Inclusion in digital transformation
Funding Priorities and Strategic Impact
In 2025, Horizon Europe allocates over €1.59 billion to Cluster 4. Of this, more than:
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€517 million supports climate action (32.5%)
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€2.7 billion contributes to the digital transition (40.4% across Horizon Europe)
Cluster 4 also advances Europe's strategic goals in AI development, with estimated investments exceeding €1.6 billion across Horizon Europe in 2025 — empowering industries to use AI responsibly and competitively.
How to Apply
Projects under Cluster 3 are typically collaborative and require multi-stakeholder consortia. Application calls are accessible through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal and are published under specific destinations.
For step-by-step instructions on eligibility, proposal design, and submission, refer to Part 1 of this guide — your essential overview of Horizon Europe’s application process.
Conclusion: Building Europe’s Digital and Industrial Future
Cluster 4 enables the EU to lead the global race for digital and industrial innovation — while embedding sustainability, ethics, and social responsibility. It empowers stakeholders across sectors to deliver breakthrough technologies, strengthen value chains, and build secure, data-driven societies.
At EUcalls, we help you find partners, calls, and resources to unlock funding through Horizon Europe. Whether you're an SME, researcher, or policymaker, our platform simplifies collaboration and increases your chances of success.
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