MAGICIAN Open Call 2 – Autonomous Defect Detection and Repair in Manufacturing

Overview of the Programme and Its Objectives 

MAGICIAN Open Call 2 forms part of the EU-funded MAGICIAN project, which develops a modular, human-centred automation solution for autonomous defect detection and rework in manufacturing environments. The second open call aims to explore how MAGICIAN capabilities can be adapted, extended and validated in new industrial sectors, beyond the automotive domain. 

The call seeks to fund five Application Use Cases (AUCs) that demonstrate innovative uses of MAGICIAN technologies in real production settings, while contributing to improved productivity, quality, safety and working conditions. 

What the Programme Supports 

The call supports Application Use Cases that adapt up to two MAGICIAN capabilities within one eligible industrial sector. These capabilities relate to: 

• Defect detection and classification using advanced sensing technologies 
• AI-driven perception, learning and decision-making 
• Defect rework and removal processes 
• Human-robot interaction and interfaces 
• Human-centred, ethical and inclusive automation approaches 

Projects must demonstrate technical feasibility, industrial relevance and alignment with the MAGICIAN framework, while ensuring interoperability with existing MAGICIAN hardware and software components. 

Who Can Apply 

Applications may be submitted by Startups and SMEs which must be: 

• Legally established in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe Associated Country 
• Independent from the MAGICIAN consortium (including affiliated entities) 
• Able to demonstrate sufficient technical and operational capacity to deliver the project 

Applications may be submitted as: 

• Single AUC (one company), or 
• Twin AUC (two companies forming a small consortium) 

Funding and Support Available 

• Maximum funding per project: €200,000 
• Funding rate: 
  • Up to 70% of eligible costs for SMEs 
  • Up to 100% of eligible costs for startups 
• Project duration: 12 months 

Selected projects receive technical and monitoring support from MAGICIAN partners and gain access to MAGICIAN technologies, datasets, testing facilities and expertise.