BSC AI Factory launches second call for Incubation Space Program aimed at startups

BSC AI Factory has opened the second call for its Incubation Space Program, an initiative aimed at startups that develop solutions based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) or that make intensive use of these technologies to create innovative, scalable applications with high impact potential. The program aims to strengthen the European AI innovation ecosystem by providing selected teams with the technical, scientific, and business conditions to accelerate the development and market entry of their projects.

The call is aimed atearly-stage startups that are developing AI-based products or services and have solid technological foundations and clear growth potential. The selected startups will have access to a dedicated incubation space at one of the four BSC AI Factory locations—Barcelona, Guimarães, Lisbon, or Bucharest—between April 1 and September 30, 2026.

The program includes specialized technical support in AI, mentoring focused on product and business model development, as well as a structured incubation plan that includes personalized sessions, thematic workshops , and opportunities to connect with relevant members of the ecosystem. There will also be networking opportunities with researchers, AI experts, industry partners, investors, and other startups.

The deadline for submitting applications is March 12, 2026. Please refer to the official rules for more information on program conditions, eligibility criteria, and the evaluation process.

BSC AI Factory is a European initiative led by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, aimed at accelerating the development and adoption of Artificial Intelligence solutions by promoting links between advanced research, computing infrastructure, and technological entrepreneurship.

Portugal is part of this network through the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) and the National Center for Advanced Computing (CNCA), reinforcing its strategic position in the European AI ecosystem and creating opportunities for national and international startups to develop, test, and scale innovative solutions.