Funding to develop and scale up game-changing innovations
The EIC Accelerator is a leading EU funding program designed to support groundbreaking innovations developed by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As part of the European Innovation Council (EIC) under Horizon Europe, it aims to help entrepreneurs and innovators transform disruptive technologies into market-ready solutions. Applicants need to have a TRL of 6 to apply.
This highly competitive program is open to SMEs, start-ups, and individuals planning to establish an SME with disruptive innovations that have the potential to scale globally.
Why Apply to the EIC Accelerator?
- Substantial Grants: Grants up to €2.5M for both Open and Challenge Calls.
- Equity investments: Ranging from €0.5M to €10M.
- Funding Rate: 70% of eligible costs covered.
- Grant only and Blended (grant + equity): Available for applicants needing a combination of funding types.
- This funding helps you attract private investment faster, reducing the time to market for your innovation.
1. EIC Accelerator Open 2025
The EIC Accelerator Open Call is open to any sector or field of technology, with no predefined priorities. If you have a disruptive technology or business model, this is your chance to secure EU funding.
Open to: Single Applicants (Start-up, SMEs from EU Member States or Associated countries)
Total Budget: €384M
Funding Available:
- Grant Amount: up to €2.5M
- Funding rate: 70% of eligible costs. Applicants will need to cover the remaining percentage.
Deadlines: March 12, 2025 & October 1, 2025
2. EIC Accelerator Challenges 2025
The EIC Accelerator Challenges focus on five specific areas of strategic importance for 2025.
Open to: Single Applicants (Start-up, SMEs from EU Member States or Associated countries)
Total Budget: €250M
Funding Available:
- Grant Amount: up to €2.5M
- Funding rate: 70% of eligible costs. Applicants will need to cover the remaining percentage.
Deadlines: March 12, 2025, and October 1, 2025
The Five EIC Accelerator Challenges for 2025:
- Advanced materials development and scaling along the value chain
- Biotechnology-driven low-emission food production systems
- Generative AI (GenAI4EU) – Creating European Champions in Generative AI
- Innovative in-space servicing and technologies for resilient EU space infrastructure
- Breakthrough innovations for future mobility solutions.
In addition to the EIC Accelerator, the STEP Scale-up scheme offers an additional €300M for 2025, focusing on strategic technologies that enhance Europe’s industrial competitiveness and reduce reliance on non-EU regions.
Who Can Apply?
SMEs, including start-ups and spin-offs, can apply for the EIC Accelerator, as well as individuals planning to start an SME. It’s open to companies in EU Member States or Horizon Europe-associated countries with high-impact innovations. In some cases, small mid-caps with fewer than 500 employees may also qualify. The program supports disruptive, scalable technologies with global market potential.
How to Apply for EIC Accelerator Funding
Crafting a successful EIC Accelerator application requires a strategic focus on breakthrough innovation, a clear commercial strategy, and a compelling need for funding. Proposals are evaluated based on Innovation, Market Impact, Need for Funding, the strength of the Team, and the broader Impact of the project. Our expert consultancy provides personalized guidance, helping you refine each element of your proposal to maximize your chances of securing funding and scaling your business.
Find out more about the programme
Download our EIC Accelerator Guide
Evolution: Your Strategic Ally for EIC Success
With over 20 years of experience across 30+ countries, Evolution Europe has helped numerous clients secure EU funding, and has achieved an impressive 30% success rate in the 2023 EIC Accelerator programme—significantly higher than the EU average (around 3-5%).
We have successfully raised over €200 million in EU funding, enabling our clients to scale their innovative projects and unlock new opportunities.
Our consultancy provides comprehensive support throughout the entire EIC Accelerator application process, from grant application preparation and submission to communication services for pitch decks and videos, as well as post-grant management services. We ensure your innovation receives the funding, visibility, and resources needed to scale and succeed.
Contact us today to discuss your project and start your journey toward EIC Accelerator success!