A call for European research projects
The Sopra Steria Foundation – Institut de France is launching a €100,000 call for projects to support research conducted in Europe on the theme of responsible, sustainable artificial intelligence (AI) that serves the public interest.
This call for projects is open to researchers and research teams from universities, institutes or non-profit laboratories wishing to develop or further scientific work on the links between artificial intelligence, the environment, natural resources and biodiversity.
Applications are open to researchers working in teams based in Europe, from non-profit organisations, and must be submitted by midnight on 20 February 2026 via the dedicated call for applications.
Why this grand prize?
The rapid development of artificial intelligence – and in particular generative AI – is accompanied by profound transformations in our economies and societies. However, scientific knowledge about its environmental impacts remains fragmentary, and there is still no consensus or shared methodologies for measuring them robustly.
At the same time, promising avenues are emerging for designing more energy-efficient digital technologies:
- less energy-intensive architectures and algorithms,
- new methods of data storage and processing,
- uses of AI to support ecological transition and biodiversity preservation.
These advances require strong support for scientific research, in a context where research funding is under severe pressure. Through this Grand Prix, the Sopra Steria Foundation – Institut de France has chosen to invest in work capable of providing reliable data, operational tools and robust analytical frameworks to inform public debate and guide technological decisions.
Objectives and terms of the Grand Prize
The Grand Prix supports research projects aimed at better measuring, reducing or assessing the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence.
Details of the eligible research areas and selection criteria are available in the call for applications.
Open to researchers and research teams based in Europe, applications must be submitted via the dedicated call for applications before midnight on 20 February 2026.
European researchers, help advance more responsible and sustainable artificial intelligence.
Call for Applications 2026
Rules of the Grand Prize