HERIFORGE announced the results of its first Open Call, marking a strong start for the cultural heritage and immersive technologies community. The programme attracted 147 complete applications out of 602 started drafts, representing 17 different countries. The highest number of submissions came, respectively, from Poland, Cyprus and Türkiye underscoring the project’s pan-European reach.
“From interactive storytelling to collaborative XR, the breadth of ideas shows how quickly creative tech is moving in heritage,” said the HERIFORGE team. “This momentum gives us a powerful foundation for the next phases of the programme.”
What applicants explored
Interest clustered around four challenge areas hosted by the project hubs:
- PL Hub – Unlocking Interactive Stories: 73 applications
- TR Hub – Reimagining Rituals: 71 applications
- TR Hub – Crafted Realities: 53 applications
- CY Hub – Collaborative XR Experiences: 36 applications
These figures highlight a strong appetite for experience design, ritual reinterpretation, and craft-focused innovation using immersive media.
Who applied
Applications reflected a healthy mix of organisation types, with SMEs leading the way (125), followed by individual creators (95) and NGOs (30). This diversity indicates a vibrant ecosystem capable of pairing entrepreneurial delivery with cultural and social impact.
Why it matters
The response to the 1st Open Call confirms growing demand for tools and support that connect cultural heritage with XR and interactive technologies. By convening creators, researchers, and businesses across Europe, HERIFORGE aims to accelerate prototypes that are both audience-centric and heritage-informed.
What’s next
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted with next steps, including mentoring and development opportunities within the HERIFORGE hubs. Further updates, along with future calls and community events, will be shared on HERIFORGE channels.