---
title: "3DoP launches open call for innovative SMEs in additive manufacturing"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/3dop-launches-open-call-for-innovative-smes-in-additive-manufacturing/
date: 2025-05-07
modified: 2025-05-07
lang: en
author: "Davide Sher"
description: "The European project 3DoP – Optimisation of Production by 3D Printing has officially launched its second Open Call, inviting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to explore a new horizon of..."
categories:
  - "3D Printing Processes"
  - "AM Training"
  - "Course"
  - "Research & Education"
  - "Startup and Incubators"
tags:
  - "insights"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3dp-open-call-640x404.jpg
word_count: 524
---

# 3DoP launches open call for innovative SMEs in additive manufacturing

The European project [3DoP – Optimisation of Production by 3D Printing](https://qualified.3dop.eu/) has officially launched its second Open Call, inviting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to explore a new horizon of innovation in additive manufacturing. Co-funded by the European Commission through the Interregional Innovation Investments Instrument (I3), 3DoP is a collaborative initiative to boost industrial growth and technological advancement across European macro-regions. With a network of 33 partners, the project offers access to cutting-edge 3D printing technologies, strategic services, and collaborative opportunities to help SMEs test, validate, and bring their innovations to market.

This Open Call is open until 8 September 2025 and targets companies eager to develop or commercialize innovative products or processes using 3D printing. Through this call, participating SMEs can access high-level technical infrastructure, expert guidance, and personalized consulting—all entirely free of charge. The initiative is structured to support businesses in various stages of technological readiness, particularly helping them move from a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 6–7 to TRL 9, the threshold for market entry.

![Explore the 3DoP project and its second Open Call for SMEs to innovate through 3D printing. Join today!](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3dop-open.jpg)
At the heart of the call lies a three-strand structure, each designed to address specific needs. The first strand focuses on solution owners looking to overcome technological challenges. SMEs are invited to work with these solution owners to co-develop or complete technologies that are not yet market-ready. This pathway includes not only collaborative R&D but also access to a broad portfolio of technical and non-technical services. The second strand centers on testing and validation. Here, companies can trial their innovations in advanced laboratories across the EU and receive additional non-technical support to refine and position their offerings. The third strand offers direct non-technical support, such as coaching, funding advice, business development assistance, and market readiness training.

Selected SMEs will benefit from specialized mentoring, bespoke consultancy, and dedicated services offered by experienced partners across the continent. This will help them reduce the risks and costs associated with technological adoption and provide a unique gateway into new markets and funding channels. In addition, the project aims to facilitate long-term collaboration, encouraging the formation of sustainable partnerships through real-world testing and co-creation.

The application process is straightforward and conducted on a rolling basis, meaning submissions are evaluated as they arrive. Interested companies can apply any time between 8 April 2025 and 8 September 2025, and the "first in – first selected" criterion ensures timely processing of proposals. Eligible applicants must be SMEs legally established in EU Member States, EEA countries, or associated nations, and the proposed projects must involve using 3DoP’s additive manufacturing services and technologies.

The broader vision of 3DoP goes beyond just individual innovation. The project is actively building a framework for integrated innovation ecosystems and sustainable investment chains that can support the European manufacturing sector for years. In its first two years, 3DoP focused on advancing metal 3D printing, including developing smart molds with embedded electronics and enhanced automation techniques. Now, with the launch of this second call, these advancements are being made available to SMEs across Europe, marking a significant step toward commercial deployment and industrial impact.

More information, including the application form and service portfolio, can be found on the official 3DoP portal: [https://www.3dop.eu/open-call/](https://www.3dop.eu/open-call/).