Since 2021, the EU-funded I.FAST project has been developing innovative technologies that are common to multiple accelerator platforms and defining strategic roadmaps for their future development. Coordinated by CERN, the project brings together 49 participants who are helping to prepare for the next step of particle physics research, improve the sustainability of accelerator-based science and meet the specific needs of applications for society.
The project’s Internal Innovation Fund (IIF) was created to stimulate innovation in accelerator technologies. The fund’s primary objective is to encourage I.FAST partners to identify innovative solutions with viable industrial or commercial potential. This fast-track, competitive process will finance emerging technologies and innovative processes, research, business models and other solutions, at both the development and the prototype stages.
Technologies supported by the IIF must be capable of advancing the state of the art in fields related to the I.FAST thematic areas. They must also contribute to improving the sustainability of particle accelerator facilities by reducing their electricity consumption or footprint, improving their performance without increasing their environmental impact, or directly serving the environment.
The project’s thematic areas include:
- Novel particle accelerator concepts and technologies
- High-luminosity accelerators for light sources
- Innovative superconducting magnets
- Innovative superconducting thin-film-coated cavities
- Advanced accelerator technologies and materials
- Sustainable concepts and technologies
- Societal applications
- Technology infrastructure
Individual projects will receive from 100 to 200 kEUR in funding until the available funds (1 MEUR) have been exhausted. To qualify for support, the projects’ consortia must include at least one I.FAST beneficiary and one industrial partner.
To submit your proposal, complete the submission form on the I.FAST website by 15 September 2022.
Find out more about the application process by visiting the I.FAST website or by contacting Marcello Losasso, the fund manager.