Are you a start-up or SME with a groundbreaking idea poised to shake up the market? If so, Horizon Europe’s EIC Accelerator might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Designed to support innovative ventures with the potential to create new markets or disrupt existing ones, this funding program offers a pathway to substantial financial backing and strategic guidance.
What is the Horizon Europe – EIC Accelerator?
The EIC Accelerator is a flagship initiative under Horizon Europe, the European Union’s ambitious research and innovation framework program. It caters specifically to start-ups and SMEs that demonstrate:
- Innovation: Companies with game-changing products, services, or business models that have the potential to make waves in Europe and beyond.
- Ambition: Ventures committed to scaling up and expanding their reach.
- Need for Funding: Projects where the risks are too high for traditional private investors alone to bear.
Funding Opportunities
Under the EIC Accelerator, you can access grant funding of up to €2.5 million. Your innovation should fall within Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 5-8, and you will have 24 months to complete your project. There are two primary funding methods:
- 1. Grant Only: For companies aiming to reach TRL 8 by the project’s end and continue further development independently.
- 2. Grant First: Companies reaching TRL 8 may opt for this route, which opens up the possibility of equity funding to reach TRL 9.
For innovations at TRL 9 (ready for market deployment), there’s an opportunity for dilutive funding of up to €15 million. The funds align with the “patient capital” principle with an investment horizon of 7-10 years. The funding can be structured as a blend of non-dilutive grants for innovation activities (TRL 5-8) and dilutive equity for market deployment (TRL 9), or as an investment-only option for mid-cap companies.
Who can apply for EIC Accelerator funding?
- EU Member States and associated countries’ applicants, including start-ups, SMEs, and people keen on establishing an SME or mid-cap.
- Third-country applicants have the option to relocate their companies to become eligible. Importantly, applicants from the UK can participate in the “grant only” scheme.
- Each applicant can submit only one application to the EIC Accelerator, with the possibility of additional submissions following the initial evaluation.
Take the Leap
If your innovation fits the bill, the EIC Accelerator could be your catalyst for success. Don’t miss the chance to explore this program further. Get in touch with us today to kickstart your journey towards transformative funding and strategic support.
