Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Date of latest update: 2026-04-29

Description

Description (EN):

The Danube region is a mix of different places, stages of growth, and cultures, and it is at the edge of significant changes thanks to artificial intelligence. A new and exciting project is coming to life, merging AI's possibilities with the emerging field of working alongside humanoid robots. Sparked by the teamwork within the EUSDR PA8's Artificial Intelligence Working Group, this effort highlights AI's crucial role in transforming the economy. It specifically aims to introduce humanoid robots into vital areas such as agro-food, senior care, and manufacturing, seeking to enhance the region's health and wealth. These three key sectors are critical due to the ageing population, the added value to manufacturing, and the exploitation of natural resources. Furthermore, the significance of these sectors is underscored in an ongoing DRP project called BrAIn, where collaboration under the AI umbrella has already begun, spotlighting the need for more concrete projects involving humanoid robots. Humanoid robots, a new but rapidly growing part of AI, blend high-tech features with the ability to act like humans. Designed to look and work like us, they open up possibilities once thought to exist only in sci-fi movies. However, deploying these robots in diverse areas like the DR is uncharted territory. There is tremendous potential for them to transform everyday jobs across numerous fields, but figuring out how to maximize this potential is still in its early stages. This challenge involves introducing cutting-edge technology into regions that vary greatly in their readiness for technology, the skills of their workers, and their openness to robots. This submission is for a preparatory project, a crucial first step toward developing a larger-scale initiative dedicated to integrating humanoid robots in a way that is both effective and sensitive to the needs and values of the DR. Our goal is not just to overcome technical obstacles but to foster a deep understanding and acceptance of these technologies among the public. These include increased operational efficiencies in key targeted sectors, improved quality of life through advanced care options, and the fostering of a tech-savvy workforce, so by that improving SMEs competitiveness. Drawing parallels with successful humanoid robot integrations in other regions, we anticipate a 20% improvement in operational efficiencies in targeted sectors, alongside a significant increase in STEM engagement across the community. The project focuses on ensuring that as these robots become part of daily life, everyone can benefit, regardless of the extent of technology integration in their community or their feelings about robots. Looking ahead, the project commits to tailoring humanoid robot applications to meet the immediate needs of the DR and to laying the foundation for lasting impact and continuous innovation. Our vision extends beyond the project's timeframe, aiming to establish a sustainable ecosystem for AI and robotics integration that supports ongoing growth, scalability across sectors, and adaptability to future technological advancements .In sectors like agro-food, there is potential for precision agriculture and automated processing; in senior care, the promise of companionship and assistance; and in manufacturing, the efficiency of automated assembly lines and quality control. Each sector faces distinct challenges in accepting and adapting to humanoid robots, from operational integration to ethical considerations and dynamics of human-robot interaction. In addressing these challenges, the initiative not only aims to facilitate the practical application of humanoid robots but also to foster a deeper understanding and acceptance of these technologies. Through education, hands-on demonstrations, and pilot projects, the project seeks to showcase the tangible benefits of humanoid robots, dispelling fears and building a foundation for future innovations. This project is designed as a foundational step towards crafting a comprehensive initiative that specifically addresses Priority Area 8 in the EUSDR, focusing on enhancing the Competitiveness of Enterprises. Four experienced partners, who have previously collaborated on related projects, are poised to undertake an in-depth examination of the challenges identified. They will develop a well-structured work plan and budget, underpinned by thorough background studies, to lay the foundation for a successful, future-oriented project. To ensure the initiative's relevance and incorporate a broad range of perspectives, partners will conduct participatory workshops and organize an international event. These efforts aim to gather valuable insights and feedback from key stakeholders and actors in the field. Such a collaborative approach not only enriches the project's development process but also aligns with our commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive ecosystem for technological innovation and enterprise competitiveness in the DR.

Actual Achievements (EN):

The HUMANoid project, led by PBN, brought together four dedicated partners—PBN (HU), TUCN (RO), ITC (SL), and IDSI (MD)—with the shared goal of exploring the role and potential of humanoid robots in the Danube Region. The project aimed to lay the groundwork for a follow-up initiative by delivering strategic insights, fostering transnational collaboration, and engaging key stakeholders in the region. The project started with a kick-off meeting in Budapest on 5 November 2024, where partners aligned on the key objectives and implementation timeline. A second in-person meeting was held in Stuttgart in 8-9 May 2025, complemented by a HUMANoid workshop organized by PBN as part of the Metaverse Congress. These occasions allowed for strategic dialogue, dissemination of results, and strengthened partnership coordination. Main Achievements and Outputs: State-of-the-Art Analysis (Output 1): Under PBN’s coordination, a comprehensive overview of the current status of humanoid robotics in manufacturing, agri-food, and senior care sectors was developed. IDSI took the lead in delivering a high-quality literature and market analysis, integrating findings from both the Danube Region and global benchmarks (e.g., Japan, South Korea). A gap analysis identified key challenges and innovation opportunities, forming a solid knowledge base for strategic decision-making. Project Work Plan (Output 2): PBN coordinated the development of the overall work plan, which outlined the project structure, partner responsibilities, and timelines. ITC contributed extensively to this process, especially in defining the operational framework, synergies among partners, and long-term strategic elements, such as financial and resource planning. Financing Strategy (Output 3): A detailed financing strategy was produced under ITC’s leadership. It mapped potential public and private funding opportunities and innovative financial instruments relevant to humanoid robotics. The strategy included concrete implementation plans and guidelines to support the preparation of future project proposals and to ensure long-term sustainability. Socio-Economic Analysis and Stakeholder Engagement (Output 4): This work package combined socio-economic research, stakeholder mapping, and outreach activities. Regional and international workshops—such as the one in Stuttgart co-organized with PA8—enabled knowledge sharing and awareness-raising. Cross-cutting issues such as ethics, transparency, and inclusion were integrated, and workshops supported the engagement of diverse stakeholders from across sectors. Partnership and Communication: The cooperation among the four partners was smooth, efficient, and based on mutual trust. PBN ensured administrative and financial coordination, compliance with programme requirements, and communication with the Joint Secretariat. IDSI played an active role in communication and dissemination, launching a dedicated project webpage and using institutional channels to share project updates. All partners participated in regular meetings and contributed to the achievement of project goals. Added Value of Transnational Cooperation: The HUMANoid project successfully demonstrated the value of transnational cooperation. By combining the distinct expertise of each partner—from technical research to financial planning and stakeholder outreach—the project delivered results that are regionally relevant, technically sound, and aligned with broader EU objectives. The integrated approach ensured that the groundwork has been laid for future collaboration and concrete steps toward the integration of humanoid robotics in the Danube Region.

Thematic information

Innovation capacity and awareness-raising ICT and digital society SME and entrepreneurship

Priority: (VI-B_D_4) Priority 4 - A better cooperation governance in the Danube Region

Priority specific objective: ISO6.4. Enhance institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders to implement macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, as well as other territorial strategies (all strands)

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO6 (ISO1) A better cooperation governance

Type of intervention: 171 Enhancing cooperation with partners both within and outside the Member State

Partners (4)

Lead Partner: Pannon Gazdasági Hálózat Egyesület

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HU18984303

Department: PBN Szombathely

Address: Gesztenyefa u., 9027 Győr, Hungary

Department address: Zanati u, 9700 Szombathely, Hungary

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.pbn.hu

Total budget: EUR 56 259.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 45 007.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 11 251.80

Institutul de Dezvoltare a Societății Informaționale

Name: Institutul de Dezvoltare a Societății Informaționale

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 1008600032684

Address: Academiei, MD2028 Chisinau, Moldova

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://idsi.md/en/home

Total budget: EUR 18 760.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 15 008.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 3 752.00

ITC – Inovacijsko Tehnološki Grozd Murska Sobota

Name: ITC – Inovacijsko Tehnološki Grozd Murska Sobota

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI51545535

Address: Lendavska Ulica, 9000 Murska Sobota, Slovenia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://itc-cluster.com/

Total budget: EUR 31 220.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 24 976.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 6 244.00

Universitatea Tehnică din Cluj-Napoca

Name: Universitatea Tehnică din Cluj-Napoca

Department: Danube Transfer Centre Office

Partner’s ID if not PIC: RO22736939

Address: Memorandumului, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Department address: Bd. Muncii, 400641 Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website (not verified): http://www.utcluj.ro/en

Total budget: EUR 18 760.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 15 008.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 3 752.00

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Information Society Development Institute

Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

ITC – Innovation Technology Cluster Murska Sobota

Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Technical University of Cluj-Napoca

Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Pannon Gazdasági Hálózat Egyesület

Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Project acronym: HUMANoid

Project ID: DRP0400902

Project start date: 2024-09-01

Project end date: 2025-08-31

Project status: closed

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 124 999.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 99 999.20

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

State of art analysis of humanoids in the 3 focus areas
Report on target group assessment
HUMANoid project workplan and budget plan
HUMANoid Funding Strategy
HUMANoid Roadmap
Regional Workshop Reports with recommendations for the main project
Socio-Economic Impact and Workforce Transformation Report
International Workshop Report

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The HUMANoid project, by introducing humanoid robotics and AI into the Danube Region, is precisely aligned with the EU EUSDR, particularly enhancing SME competitiveness under PA 8. By focusing on digital innovation, HUMANoid directly addresses regional economic disparities, aiming to boost competitiveness through technological advancement.
Direct Contributions to PA 8:
Digital Innovation and SME Competitiveness: HUMANoid prioritizes the upskilling of SMEs within the DR in digital technologies, particularly humanoid robotics and AI. The project emphasizes improving know-how transfer about digital innovations, equipping SMEs not just with new technologies but with the capabilities to utilize them effectively.
Regional Integration and Flagship Applications: By identifying the level of AI development and ambitions across Danube countries/regions, HUMANoid fosters a harmonized integration of digital innovations. It contributes to creating Trans-Danube Digital Value Chains and open data lakes, promoting a more competitive and interconnected marketplace. These efforts support PA 8's vision, enhancing regional cohesion and economic growth.
Intersecting with PA 7 and PA 9:
Fostering a Knowledge Society: HUMANoid aligns with Priority Area 7 by leveraging AI and robotics to enhance research, education, and ICT. The project supports the creation of a knowledge society, encouraging R&I excellence and smart specialization.
Skills Development and Employment: By equipping individuals with skills to work alongside AI and robotics, HUMANoid contributes to Priority Area 9. It aims to improve employability and entrepreneurship through education and training, reflecting PA 9’s goals of higher employment rates and better educational outcomes.
In essence, the HUMANoid project embodies the EUSDR’s mission by advancing digital transformation across the Danube Region, focusing on SME competitiveness, innovation, and the knowledge society.
EuropeanGreenDeal Humanoid precision agricultural robots conserve resources and prevent waste to lessen the agro-food sector's environmental impact. Technology supports the EGD's sustainable food system goal. Focusing on manufacturing SMEs improves energy efficiency and smart manufacturing, enabling the Green Deal decarbonise EU industry.
EGD educational resources and pilot projects build a resilient and sustainable economy. The project will assist SMEs lower their carbon impact and grow sustainably by managing manufacturing energy.
HUMANoid shows the EGD's commitment to social sustainability and wellness through robotic geriatric care. Strategic environmental study of the project's environmental and health implications illustrates EGD's commitment to sustainable development.
HUMANoid promotes a green transition, integrates AI and robotics into key sectors, and prioritises ecological and social sustainability in the Danube Region to achieve the European Green Deal.Technology supports the EGD's sustainable food system goal. Focusing on manufacturing SMEs improves energy efficiency and smart manufacturing, enabling the Green Deal decarbonise EU industry.
EGD educational resources and pilot projects build a resilient and sustainable economy. The project will assist SMEs lower their carbon impact and grow sustainably by managing manufacturing energy. Green implementation incorporates hybrid events and 'Reduce, reuse, recycle' These strategic projects promote the Green Deal's clean and circular economy economic growth and climate change mitigation goals.
HUMANoid shows the EGD's commitment to social sustainability and wellness through robotic geriatric care. Strategic environmental study of the project's environmental and health implications illustrates EGD's commitment to sustainable development.
To support the European Green Deal, HUMANoid integrates AI and robots into key sectors, promotes a green transition, and prioritises ecological and social sustainability in the Danube Region.
TerritorialAgenda2030 The HUMANoid project is closely aligned with Territorial Agenda 2030, fostering social, economic, and territorial cohesion by integrating AI and robotics in less developed areas. This approach addresses the disparity in technological advancement and promotes inclusive growth, aligning with the Agenda's action-oriented framework to create a sustainable future for all European territories
By implementing humanoid robots in vital sectors like agro-food, senior care, and manufacturing, the project works to balance development and enhance the quality of life across the Danube region. These efforts ensure that advancements in AI do not widen regional disparities but rather bring about balanced territorial development.
Educational initiatives and hands-on demonstrations are integral parts of the project, equipping individuals with the skills to harness these new technologies. This educational outreach is crucial in making innovation accessible, which is a core of the Territorial Agenda 2030.
The project also underscores sustainability through its methodology. By employing a "demo case" approach and prioritizing the reduction of travel and resource use, it contributes the sustainable and inclusive. The operational adjustments using XR technologies for better human-robot interaction further reflect the Agenda's emphasis on innovative and inclusive measures for territorial development.
HUMANoid project not only supports technological and economic growth but also contributes to the social cohesion and environmental sustainability
Other The Gender Equality Strategy
The project's focus on humanoid robotics aligns with the EU's gender policies by potentially challenging and reshaping gender stereotypes often associated with technology and AI. By considering gender dynamics in the interaction with robots, the project can provide insights into gender attribution and potentially reduce biases. The Charter includes gender equality and non-discrimination as core principles. The proposal plans for inclusive access to information, training, and events, as well as ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into learning events, which further solidifies its commitment to gender equality
Other EIT Manufacturing strategy
The HUMANoid proposal will contribute to EIT Manufacturing’s strategy and goals by aligning with its focus on improving productivity, safety, decision-making, and control through advanced human-machine collaboration. By integrating humanoid robots into the manufacturing sector, the HUMANoid project directly supports the improvement of worker productivity and safety. The robots' advanced capabilities in decision-making and execution can augment human tasks, leading to more efficient production lines and reducing the risk of accidents.
HUMANoid proposal’s emphasis on education and understanding of humanoid robots aligns with EIT Manufacturing’s areas of innovation and business creation, ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of manufacturing practices through an educated and well-prepared workforce. By exploring and adjusting robots' operational environments using XR technologies to improve human-robot interactions, the HUMANoid project addresses the EIT's strategic goal of innovation in manufacturing processes. This approach allows for the development of new production methods that are both innovative and responsive to evolving market and societal needs, thereby advancing the strategic agenda of EIT Manufacturing.

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-04

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

138 / 138 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

1 431 / 1 431 (100%)

Notes on the data

Potential discrepancies with some project budgets, are being verified.

Languages

Contact Form

Humanoid Robotics Integration and Innovation in the Danube Region

Description

Thematic information

Partners (4)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Disclaimer