CIIIC PRO now open: research into the public values of immersive experiences

19 October 2026

Are you a researcher working on the societal impact of immersive experiences (IX)? And would you like to collaborate with businesses, public authorities or civil society organisations to develop new knowledge on public values such as privacy and sustainability? If so, the new CIIIC PRO funding scheme may be of interest to you. CIIIC PRO focuses on research into the effects of immersive experiences on public values. A maximum grant of € 700,000 is available per project, and it is expected that 5 projects will be awarded funding.

Research into the public values of IX

Immersive experiences are experiences in which digital technology and the physical world converge, for example through augmented reality, mixed reality or virtual reality. These technologies offer opportunities for innovation, learning, working and social impact. Immersive experiences also raise questions about public values, such as inclusion, safety, privacy, autonomy and well-being.

Through CIIIC PRO, the Taskforce for Applied Research SIA is promoting research that provides insight into the effects of IX on these values. The funding is intended for research projects that develop validated knowledge, methods and practical approaches for the responsible design, application and upscaling of IX. Research into the role of AI within immersive experiences also falls within the scope of the scheme.

Projects may run for a maximum of four years. The emphasis is on developing knowledge and tools that help organisations to incorporate public values into the policy, design, development and application of IX. The research projects help organisations to assess risks, reinforce positive effects and better embed public values in their working methods. In this way, the scheme contributes to responsible innovation and to a strong Dutch IX sector.

Information session

Would you like to find out more about the scheme, the eligibility criteria and the application process? Then register for the online information session on 26 October 2026, from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm

Matchmaking session

Are you looking for consortium partners or would you like to test your research idea? Then attend the matchmaking event on 10 November 2026. During this event, researchers, businesses, civil society organisations and public authorities can meet, exchange ideas and launch new collaborations.

Venue: Social Impact Factory, Utrecht
Time: 3.30 pm to 6.10 pm.

Aanmelden voor de matchmakingbijeenkomst

10 November 2026 | 3.30 pm to 6.10 pm | Social Impact Factory, Utrecht

National Growth Fund Programme CIIIC

CIIIC PRO is part of the National Growth Fund Programme Creative Industries Immersive Impact Coalition (CIIIC). This programme stimulates the development and application of IX by investing in knowledge, research and innovation. The aim is to capitalise on the economic and social opportunities offered by IX, whilst maintaining a focus on public values.

Further information

Are you considering submitting an application? On the CIIIC PRO page, you will find all the information about the scheme, the budget, the conditions, key dates, assessment criteria and the full call for proposals.