Funding for companies in widening countries with the EIC Pre-Accelerator funding (WIDERA)

The EIC Pre-Accelerator (WIDERA) is a targeted EU funding programme jointly launched by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area (WIDERA) to support early-stage deep-tech startups in Widening countries. It is a grant that helps startups advance their technologies (from TRL 4 to TRL 5/6*), strengthen their investment and market readiness, and prepare for follow-on funding opportunities such as the EIC Accelerator.

* Completed TRL 5 (Technology validated in relevant environment—industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies) or TRL6 (Technology demonstrated in relevant environment—industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies).

• Mono-beneficiary: SME or small mid-cap
• Location: Must be established in a Horizon Europe Widening country
• Innovation Requirements: TRL4 at application to TRL5/6 at the end—Completed TRL 5 (Technology validated in relevant environment—industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies) or TRL6 (Technology demonstrated in relevant environment—industrially relevant environment in the case of key enabling technologies).
• High-impact innovation with strong disruption or market-creation potential
• IP & Legal Rights: The applicant should have the necessary Intellectual Property Rights to ensure freedom to operate and adequate protection of the idea.
• Clear vision of the route to market, with concrete KPIs and milestones
• Commitment and ambition to scale up

• Type of funding: The EIC Pre-Accelerator offers grant-only funding.
• Grant size: €300,000 to €500,000 (lump sum)
• Funding rate: 70% of eligible costs
• Co-financing: 30% must be covered by the beneficiary
• Project duration: Up to 24 months
• Total call budget: €20 million (2025–2026)

• The EIC Pre-Accelerator was launched as a pilot in 2025. While the newly published EIC 2026 Work Programme does not announce a continuation yet, current indications suggest that a new call is expected for 2027, with a significantly increased—likely doubled—budget compared to the pilot edition.
• However, the European Commission has not confirmed exact dates or released official documentation for the 2027 call. The final timeline will be published on the EIC website and in upcoming 2027 EIC Work Programme once formally approved.

• Single-stage application, submit via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Structure: Part A (admin info), Part B (technical, max 22 pages as PDF) + Annexes (lump sum budget, information on clinical trials) 

The EIC Pre-Accelerator is evaluated in one stage by three experts on Excellence, Impact, and Implementation (0–5 points each). Projects scoring at least 3 per criterion and 10 overall may be funded; others meeting the threshold receive a Seal of Excellence and EIC Business Acceleration support.

Various costs are eligible, such as personnel, equipment, travel, and subcontracting expenses.

No. The EIC Pre-Accelerator Programme is only open to single SME applicants (mono-beneficiaries) established in a Widening country under Horizon Europe.

Startups selected for the EIC Pre-Accelerator grant can receive EU grants covering 70% of eligible project costs. Applicants must provide the remaining 30% through co-financing.

Proposals that meet all evaluation thresholds but cannot be funded due to budget limitations may be awarded a Seal of Excellence, granting free access to EIC Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and investor matchmaking.

Yes — one of the core aims of the EIC Pre-Accelerator grant is to prepare startups for the EIC Accelerator Fast Track. Following a successful project mid-term review, you may apply directly for EIC Accelerator funding or seek private investment and strategic partnerships.

Not yet—but you must explain your strategy to secure IP ownership or access during the project.