The AENAON Open Calls provide financial support to third parties (FSTP) to accelerate the uptake, integration, testing and validation of AENAON cybersecurity technologies and services in realistic offshore wind and critical-infrastructure environments. The scheme targets SMEs and start-ups, large companies and technology providers, research organisations and universities, cybersecurity providers, offshore wind operators and manufacturers, as well as other relevant energy and innovation actors.

The first Open Call focuses on the initial validation and testing of AENAON solutions, including cybersecurity scenarios and exercises, vulnerability and risk assessment, penetration testing, cyber range training, digital-twin-based validation and the testing of cybersecurity tools and preparedness services. Projects under Open Call 1 are expected to run for 8 months and deliver clearly defined milestones, KPIs and validation evidence.

The total FSTP budget is €4.1 million, of which €2.1 million is allocated to Open Call 1 and €2 million to Open Call 2. Funding is generally capped at €60,000 per third party, with a derogation allowing up to €100,000 for offshore wind farm operators and manufacturers, and up to €150,000 per action for small consortia, subject to the applicable individual funding ceilings. Payments follow a 30%-40%-30% staged model, linked to successful completion of milestones and reporting requirements.