EIC Pre-Accelerator (Widera)

Validate your technology for the next stages of funding

The EIC Pre-Accelerator, a 2025 pilot funding initiative under WIDERA, is designed to support early-stage, high-potential deep-tech start-ups in Widening countries. This highly competitive programme offers grants between €300,000 and €500,000 (70% funding rate) in lump sum format, along with expert guidance, to help start-ups mature their technology, strengthen their business case, and prepare for follow-on funding through the EIC Accelerator or other investment sources.

If your company is developing a breakthrough innovation with the potential to transform industries and is based in a Widening country, the EIC Pre-Accelerator represents a significant opportunity to boost your growth and investment readiness.

2025 EIC Pre-Accelerator Programme: Key Details

Objective: Advance start-ups from TRL 4 (technology validated in the lab) to TRL 5-6 (technology validated/demonstrated in relevant environment), with strong investor appeal and market readiness.

Eligible Applicants: 

• Type of Entity: Only single SME applicants (monobeneficiaries).

• Location: Must be established in a Widening country under Horizon Europe.

• Focus: Early-stage deep-tech innovations in physical, biological, or digital technologies.

Scope of Activities Funded

Grants are expected to support:

• Market readiness activities (e.g. business case development, growth planning, certification)

• Investor readiness preparation (e.g. IP protection, revenue modelling)

• Technology maturation (e.g. real-world testing, scaling prototypes)

• Preparation for EIC Accelerator Fast Track (following successful mid-term review)

Funding Overview:

• Grant Amount: From €300,000 to €500,000 (lump sum).
• Funding Rate: 70% of eligible costs, with the start-up covering the remaining 30%.
• Indicative Budget for the Call: €20 million.
• Project Duration: Up to 24 months.

 Deadlines:

• Call Opening: 12th of June 2025
• Application Deadline: 18th of November 2025

Application Process: Single-stage document submission via the F&T portal, reviewed by three independent evaluators following the EIC Transition criteria.

Expected Outcomes of the EIC Pre-Accelerator

Start-ups participating in the EIC Pre-Accelerator will achieve key milestones by the end of the program, including:

• Technology Validation: Demonstrate that your technology has been validated in a relevant environment, reaching at least TRL 5.
• Investor and Market Readiness:
  • Conduct thorough market research, refine your value proposition, and develop a scalable business model.
  • Secure intellectual property, perform competitor analysis, and meet necessary regulatory or certification standards.
  • Advance your technology from TRL 4 to TRL 6 through real-world validation.

By validating your technology and preparing for investment, funded projects will be eligible to apply directly for the EIC Accelerator or attract private and public investment. This could lead to licensing agreements, strategic collaborations, or opportunities for market deployment.

In addition, Seal of Excellence will be awarded to all proposals that pass the thresholds but cannot be funded due to budget limitations. These projects will gain free access to the EIC Business Acceleration Services, such as coaching, mentoring, and matchmaking.

How to Apply for the EIC Pre-Accelerator Programme

To apply for the EIC Pre-Accelerator, your start-up must demonstrate:

• high-impact innovation with the potential to disrupt markets or create new ones.

• At least TRL 4 technology maturity

• Freedom to operate and IP ownership

• A compelling and feasible route-to-market, with defined milestones and KPIs

Proposals are evaluated based on:

• Innovation
• Market Potential
• Scalability of the Business Model
• The need of funding,
• The Team‘s capacity to execute the project. 

Our expert consultants at Evolution Europe provide tailored support to guide you through the application process. We help refine your business case and develop a compelling proposal that maximizes your chances of securing funding and attracting further investment.

Evolution: Your Strategic Ally for EIC Funding Success

At Evolution Europe, we have 20 years of experience in guiding innovative start-ups through the EU funding landscape, ensuring you make the most of funding opportunities like the EIC Pre-Accelerator Programme. We’ve worked with clients across 30+ countries, including many widening countries on more than 700 projects. With our expertise in R&D funding and EU programmes, we will help you craft a compelling proposal, connect with the right resources, and maximize your chances of success.

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your journey toward securing EIC Pre-Accelerator funding and scaling your business!