The EIC Accelerator

We are looking for Startups and SMEs seeking to scale up high impact innovations with the potential to create new markets or disrupt existing ones.

We are looking for innovations building on radical innovation, scientific discovery or technological breakthroughs ("deep tech").

We are looking for Innovations where significant funding is needed over a long timeframe and are too risky for private investors alone.

The funding can be up to € 2,5 million grant plus up to € 15 million as equity by the EIC Fund (blended finance).

There is a 2-step application process which can be guided by an EIC Business Coach. The coaching is free of charge. 

The business coaching in the application phase is free for applicants. The European Innovation Council (EIC) provides a budget for coaching as a part of the EIC Accelerator's business acceleration services. If you plan to apply for the EIC Accelerator, you can get in touch for free business coaching for your application here!

Yes, you can apply, if your country is either an EU-associated country, or if you will register a company (SME) in an EU-member state before you file your Full Application. The UK is since leaving the EU (BREXIT) in negotiations, but no treaty has been signed yet, therefore UK-SMEs can currently apply for the Grant-part of the EIC Accelerator, but not for equity and not for Business Acceleration Services, like Business Coaching. Citizens of Switzerland are currently not able to apply at all, since there has not been set up an association treaty with the EU yet.

The EIC Accelerator is a program in Horizon Europe targeting Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME). It is not meant for Universities or Research Institutions, but teams spinning out from there by creating a for-profit Startup are welcome to apply for the EIC Accelerator.

This FAQ section is in no way able to answer all questions about the EIC Accelerator and despite very careful research and information gathering, cannot be held responsible for inaccuracy or even wrongful information. Please consult in any case the official documentation of the EIC Accelerator and download the current Workprogram.