Applications for the "Digital Twins for Smart Territories" project close with strong response

The Call DigitalTwins4SmartTerritories (DT4ST): Digital Twins for Smart Territories, promoted under a Protocol between the Agency for Administrative Modernization (AMA) and the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), received a total of 57 applications, which shows the interest of the scientific and technological ecosystem in the digitalization of territories in Portugal.

Digital twins are technological tools that replicate real-world processes or phenomena, allowing for simulations and optimization of government decision-making. It was proposed that each proposal demonstrate its benefits for the end user, ensuring its effective application.

With the aim of selecting consortia led by entities from the National Scientific and Technological System (SCTN), the high level of participation in the Call reflects the strong involvement of these entities and their partners in developing innovative solutions for the territories. It is intended that the digital twins to be developed will be available in open formats, guaranteeing their reuse at no additional cost to the interested entities.

The applications submitted cover nine priority thematic areas for the National Strategy for Smart Territories (ENTI). The areas with the highest number of applications submitted were Climate Resilience and Health, with nine applications each, followed by Civil Protection and Water, with eight applications. Tourism registered six proposals, while Agriculture, Decarbonization and Mobility received five each. The theme with the fewest submissions was Energy, with two applications.

The funding available for this program is around 8.6 million euros and is part of the "Smart Territories - AMA" investment of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). The maximum funding for each selected project is 1.5 million euros.

The next stage consists of evaluating the applications, conducted by a panel of independent experts. The selection process will be based on the scientific and innovative quality of the proposals, the scientific merit of the research teams and the feasibility of the work plans submitted.

With this initiative, ENTI reinforces its commitment to innovation and the digital transition of territories, promoting technological solutions that can respond to the challenges of public management and sustainable development.