European Innovation Council (EIC): Programmes, Funding, and How to Apply

The EIC programme has established six long-term goals with measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to direct implementation and track progress on the EIC’s core mission, which is to identify, develop, and scale up breakthrough technologies for the green and digital transitions.

EIC at a Glance

The European Innovation Council (EIC) is designed to identify, develop, and scale up breakthrough technologies and companies that will drive Europe’s green and digital transitions. To guide its mission through 2027, the EIC Board has set six strategic goals, with progress tracked by Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These ambitions focus on establishing the EIC as the top investor for visionary ideas, attracting €30-50 billion of private capital for deep tech, and advancing high-risk technologies to ensure strategic autonomy, thereby increasing the number of European unicorns and scale-ups. The strategy also emphasizes commercializing public research and achieving operational excellence, all while actively implementing recommendations to improve participation from women innovators and the European Widening countries.

Which EIC Instrument Fits You?

The European Innovation Council (EIC) offers five main funding schemes, each designed for a different stage of innovation. If your innovation is at an early stage, and you’re conducting advanced research to lay the scientific groundwork for a new technology, the EIC Pathfinder is the right choice.

For those who have already developed a technology and need to validate it or create a business plan, the EIC Transition programme is ideal. It helps bridge the gap between research and market readiness.

The EIC Accelerator is for companies, such as startups and SMEs, that are ready to bring their innovations to market and scale their operations.

The EIC also has instruments designed to address specific challenges. The EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up provides large-scale investments for companies in critical areas such as digital, clean, and biotechnologies.

The EIC Advance Innovation Challenge is for those looking to solve ambitious societal or technological problems through a milestone-based approach.

Beyond funding, all EIC awardees get access to Business Acceleration Services. These services provide access to valuable expertise, corporations, investors, and key players in the ecosystem to help your innovation succeed.

EIC instrument key features

	EIC Pathfinder	EIC Transition	EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges	EIC Accelerator	EIC STEP Scale-up
TRL Focus	1-4	3-6	3-7	Grants 6-8 Equity 6-9	8-9
Core Goal	Idea to PoC	PoC to demonstration	PoC to demonstration	Demonstration to scale-up	Scale-up
Who can apply	All organisations	All organisations	All organisations	SMEs Midcaps (equity only)	SMEs, Midcaps
Budgets 2026	€4M	€2.5M	Stage 1: €300K Stage 2: €2.5M	€2.5M	-
Equity	-	-	-	Up to €10M (optional)	€10-30M

Browse EIC instruments

EIC Pathfinder | From radical ideas to proof of concept

Purpose and Activities:

The EIC Pathfinder is an instrument designed to fund advanced research that lays the scientific foundation for breakthrough technologies. It is meant for the very earliest stages of scientific and technological research, specifically for “deep-tech.” If you have a bold vision for a new technology that could significantly impact our lives, and a plausible way to achieve the scientific breakthrough to make it happen, this program may be for you.

There are two types of Pathfinder funding: the EIC Pathfinder Open, which supports projects in any field of science or technology, and the EIC Pathfinder Challenges, which focus on specific, predefined areas of strategic interest for Europe.

Who can apply:

To be eligible for Pathfinder Open, your proposal must have a convincing long-term vision for a radically new technology, a concrete and novel scientific breakthrough, and a high-risk/high-gain research approach. Applications must be submitted by a consortium of at least three independent legal entities from at least three different countries (with at least one from a Member State). The program encourages interdisciplinary research and seeks to empower early-career researchers and high-tech SMEs.

The EIC Pathfinder Challenges are a targeted funding option within the Pathfinder program that supports projects in specific, predefined areas of strategic importance to the European Union. While the EIC Pathfinder Open is broad and bottom-up, the Challenges are top-down, meaning they are designed to solve specific, ambitious societal or technological problems. The EIC aims to create a coherent portfolio of projects for each Challenge, ensuring a multi-faceted approach to achieving the overall objective. This is why the funding for Challenges is often higher.

Funding and Deadlines:

According to the 2026 work programme, if your proposal is selected, you will receive a grant of up to €4.5 million to cover 100% of your project’s eligible costs.. The expected output is a “proof of principle” that your technology is scientifically and technologically feasible. Beyond funding, successful applicants also receive access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services. They may be eligible for additional support, such as ‘Booster’ grants and a “Fast Track” to the EIC Accelerator programme.

EIC Transition | From lab to application

Purpose and Activities:

EIC Transition funds innovation activities that go beyond the experimental proof of principle. The goal is to mature and validate a novel technology and improve its market readiness. Projects should address both technology and business development, including prototyping, user testing, market research, and creating a sustainable business plan. A key objective is to produce a validated business model and a technology that has been demonstrated as effective for its intended application.

Who can apply:

The program is open to single applicants such as SMEs, spin-offs, start-ups, research organisations, and universities, as well as small consortia of two to five eligible entities. The application must be based on results from a previously funded project, such as from EIC Pathfinder, ERC Proof of Concept, or Pillar 2 of Horizon Europe. A major change for the 2026 work program is the inclusion of research results from Horizon Europe and Horizon 2020 research infrastructures.

Funding and Deadlines:

Applicants can receive grants of up to EUR 2.5 million. The deadline for proposals is September 16, 2026. Successful applicants are encouraged to take part in the “Investor Readiness training” provided by the EIC Business Acceleration Services during the project’s first year.

EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges | scaling up high-impact innovations

Purpose and Activities:

The EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges (AIC) is a new pilot scheme launching in 2026. This initiative is designed to test a more agile, mission-focused approach to innovation, inspired by successful ARPA-style models. The core goal is to rapidly tackle urgent, high-impact challenges—both technological and societal—where Europe needs to strengthen its competitiveness and strategic independence.

This scheme supports innovators through the crucial middle stages of development, from validating a concept to demonstrating a working system (TRL 4–7). The aim is to fast-track the development and real-world application of breakthrough technologies.

How the Challenge Works:

The funding process is structured in two competitive stages. The first stage, launching in 2026, will be an open call for exploratory solutions to defined challenges. Selected projects will receive funding to validate their feasibility and early concepts.

Following this, only the most promising projects will be invited to Stage 2 in 2027. This second phase will provide significantly higher funding to build and test prototypes, conduct field trials, and prepare for market deployment. Throughout the process, we will emphasize cross-disciplinary collaboration and rapid iteration, with projects actively guided by EIC Programme Managers to ensure we move quickly and effectively toward our goals.

Who can apply:

The EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges is looking for innovators from a wide range of backgrounds. You can apply as a single entity, whether you’re an SME, a start-up, a research organization, or a university, or as a small, focused consortium of two to five partners. The call is open to all applicants based in EU Member States and their Associated Countries.

Funding and Deadlines:

The funding is structured to match the two-stage process. Successful Stage 1 projects will receive preparatory grants, typically up to €1 million. Those advancing to Stage 2 will be eligible for larger grants of up to €2.5 million to support prototyping and demonstration. A key benefit of this scheme is that it funds 100% of your eligible costs, and we may use a lump-sum model to keep administration simple.

EIC Accelerator | scaling up high-impact innovations

Purpose and Activities:

This program is designed for ambitious startups and SMEs ready to bring their revolutionary, high-risk innovations to the global stage. The EIC Accelerator steps in to support your critical journey when an idea might be too bold for private investors alone, helping you move from a working prototype (TRL 6) through operational trials, market validation, and regulatory approvals (TRL 8). Whether your innovation fits within our targeted strategic ‘Challenge’ calls or you apply through the ‘Open’ call for any sector, successful companies receive a powerful blend of grant funding, equity investment, and tailored business acceleration services to help you scale and succeed.

The EIC Accelerator follows a two-stage submission process which underwent significant simplification to a more streamlined and user-friendly process. Applicants first submit a short proposal, including a 12-page form, a pitch deck, and a short video, which is evaluated remotely and can be submitted at any time. If successful, applicants are invited to prepare a full application, including a 20-page form based on the first applicaiton with additional annexes, which further expand on the innovation, business plan, financials, and team. Full applications can be submitted on any of the six cut-off dates stated below and are then evaluated in batches. The best candidates are invited to a jury panel interview, taking place three times per year, where final funding decisions are made.

Who can apply:

This opportunity is open to individual entrepreneurs, innovative startups, and small to mid-sized enterprises (SMEs). Small mid-caps (with up to 499 employees) can also qualify for the equity component under specific conditions.

Funding and Deadlines:

A company can receive a grant of up to €2.5 million at a 70% support rate to cover innovation activities. For scaling up and commercialization activities, the EIC Fund offers an investment component, ranging from €1 million to €10 million in exchange for equity. The standard package is a “blended finance” approach that combines both the grant and the investment, though you may apply for the grant-only mechanism.

In 2026 there are six cut-off dates for submitting the EIC Accelerator full application: January 7, March 4, May 6, July 8, September 2, and November 3.

EIC STEP Scale Up (pilot) | Strategic Investment for Growth

The EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call provides substantial investment to companies working on strategic technologies for Europe. This initiative aims to address a critical funding gap for promising companies developing deep tech solutions

Purpose and Activities:

This call provides an investment component of EUR 10-30 million. It is designed to help companies secure larger funding rounds between EUR 50-150 million and scale their businesses, with the EIC investment acting as a catalyst for other investors. The call targets strategic areas, including digital technologies, clean and resource-efficient technologies, and biotechnologies. The primary goal is to support companies that can reduce or prevent the European Union’s strategic dependencies.

Who can apply:

The STEP Scale Up call is open to single companies classified as SMEs or small mid-caps, as well as investors applying on behalf of eligible companies. A key requirement is a pre-commitment from a single investor for at least 20% of the total target funding round.

Funding and Deadlines:

The EIC STEP Scale Up call operates on a “first come, first served” basis with quarterly cutoffs. The indicative deadlines for 2026 are February 11, May 6, September 9, and November 25. Companies that meet the evaluation thresholds will also be awarded a “Sovereignty (STEP) Seal,” which can facilitate access to funding from other EU programs and investors.

EIC Prizes

The European Prize
for Women Innovators
European Capital of Innovation Awards

The European Prize for Women Innovators is a competition that celebrates women entrepreneurs leading Europe’s game-changing innovations. It recognises women from across the EU and Associated Countries who have transformed their ideas into disruptive innovations that benefit people and the planet. There are two main prize categories:

Women Innovators:

1st prize: €100,000
2nd prize: €70,000
3rd prize: €50,000

Rising Innovators (for applicants under the age of 35):

1st prize: €50,000
2nd prize: €30,000
3rd prize: €20,000

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Women (natural persons) legally residing in an EU Member State (including OCTs) or a Horizon Europe Associated Country
Founder or co-founder of a company/organisation established in eligible countries
Company must have been registered at least one year before the call
Applicant and company need to have demonstrated significant innovation in the field with scientific and societal impact.

What are evaluators looking for

This unique prize is quite competitive; evaluators are looking for:

1. Impact

Innovation that addresses a real need or challenge
Significant benefits for people and/or the planet
Demonstrated positive socio-economic and/or environmental impact
Current performance and growth-driving measurable outcomes

2. Who is an inspiring leader?

Played a pivotal role in her company’s success
Is an empowering role model for other women and girls
Has advocated for and promoted gender equality and balance within the company or beyond

Application Requirements

Written application form (submitted online)
90-second video message about the applicant and her achievements

Timeline

Opening: Q1-Q3 2026
Deadline: Q3-Q4 2026
Award Ceremony: Q1-Q2 2027

What is it?

The European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital) recognise cities’ roles as catalysts of local innovation ecosystems. The awards celebrate cities that have developed and implemented innovative policies, established frameworks boosting breakthrough innovation, and enhanced resilience to tackle urban challenges.

Categories & Prize Amounts

European Capital of Innovation (city population ≥250,000):

Winner: €1,000,000
1st runner-up: €100,000
2nd runner-up: €100,000

2. European Rising Innovative City (population 50,000-249,999):

Winner: €500,000
1st runner-up: €50,000
2nd runner-up: €50,000

Who Can Apply?

Cities located in EU Member States or Associated Countries
Must meet minimum population requirements for chosen category
Application must include an endorsement signed by the city Mayor (or equivalent)
Previous winners and 2024 runners-up are not eligible (previous finalists may apply)

What iCapital is Looking For

1. Experimenting

Acting as a test-bed for innovative practices
Mainstreaming practices into ordinary urban development
Concrete results from showcased initiatives

2. Escalating

Promoting acceleration of local innovation ecosystem actors
Supporting growth of innovative start-ups and SMEs
Innovation-friendly legal framework
Attracting private and public investments, resources, diversity, and talents
Driving innovation demand through efficient public procurement

3. Ecosystem Building

Facilitating synergies among innovation ecosystem players
Fostering collaboration between public, industry, start-ups, civil society, citizens, and academia
Concrete results demonstrating ecosystem development

4. Expanding

Acting as a role model for other cities
Supporting dissemination and replication of tested solutions
Promoting mutual learning, knowledge transfer, and capacity building
Enhancing cooperation between front-runner and emerging innovation cities

5. City Innovative Vision

Long-term strategic vision/plan for transformation
Innovative initiatives supporting sustainable and resilient innovation ecosystem
Supporting green and digital transition
Concrete results aligned with the strategic vision

6. Citizens’ Rights

Using innovation to strengthen democracy
Protecting citizens’ rights
Fostering social cohesion
Ensuring integration with focus on minorities, gender, disability, and race

Special Recognition

Winners (ranked 1st in each category) will receive the title “Capital of Innovation – iCapital 2026” or “Rising Innovative City 2026” and will be invited to sign a declaration of intent to promote iCapital throughout the year.

Selection Process

An independent jury reviews and scores eligible applications
Shortlisted applicants invited to jury hearing (may be remote)
Final assessment based on cumulative criteria

Timeline

Opening: Q1-Q2 2026
Deadline: Q2-Q3 2026
Award Ceremony: Q4 2026 – Q1 2027

Why Partner with Argentum

Why Partner with Argentum?

We are more than just grant consultants; we’re your strategic partner, dedicated to helping you secure the long-term funding you need to grow. Our unique approach, the Multiple Submission Strategy (MSS), is all about playing it smart. We combine meticulous planning, expert proposal management, and access to our vast network of partners to significantly boost your chances of success across multiple EU grant opportunities.

Finding the Right Path for You

We know every company’s journey is unique, so we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we craft a personalized funding roadmap that matches your company’s growth stage and strategic goals. Whether you’re a deep-tech SME ready to scale with the EIC Accelerator, an early-stage venture exploring high-risk R&D with Pathfinder & Transition, or looking to lead or participate in an international project through Horizon Europe, we know the right path. We also navigate specialized programs like EUREKA and Eurostars, and align local incentives to create a complete funding strategy for your growth.

A Smart and Strategic Approach

Before we ever write a single proposal, we do our homework to make sure we’re aiming at the right target. We start by pinpointing your technology’s exact stage of development to match it with the perfect funding instrument. We then dive deep into your market potential, ensuring your innovation is not only competitive but also aligns with Europe’s strategic goals. Your intellectual property is a crucial asset, and we’ll help position it to make your proposal stand out. This detailed assessment ensures we don’t just apply widely—we apply smartly.

Our Commitment to Excellence, Proven by Results

Our track record speaks for itself, but it’s the success of our clients that truly defines us. We’re incredibly proud to have helped innovators secure game-changing funding—up to €14 million from programs like the EIC Accelerator and Horizon Europe. With clients in 33 countries securing an average of €1.4 million each, we are honoured to be the trusted partner for deep-tech leaders across Europe, consistently delivering results that outperform industry benchmarks.

More information

Is the EIC grant a lump sum or cost-based?

+ —

Yes, the EIC Accelerator grant takes form as a lump-sum contribution.

How competitive are recent EIC calls?

+ —

The EIC Accelerator is a prestigious programme that attracts significant interest from innovative SMEs seeking to scale-up. Success rates vary from call to call, but are typically below 10%

How many times can we reapply?

+ —

For the EIC Accelerator, applicants can receive up to three rejections for all stages combined (short proposal, long proposal, jury panel interview).

How long until the grant is signed, and when is money disbursed?

+ —

Given that the EIC Accelerator has two proposal stages and an interview, the process takes place over several months. Applicants should expect circa 8 months from initial submission to grant agreement, after which the first grant payments will be disbursed.

Can the equity part be refused?

+ —

The equity investment component in EIC Accelerator is optional. Applicants may opt for a ‘grant only’ funding model.

We’re outside the EU/Associated countries. Can we still apply?

+ —

If your company is not based in the EU/Associated Countries, then you cannot apply for the EIC Accelerator. However, if you have a sister/parent company outside of the EU/Associated Countries, but your entity is registered in the EU/Associated Countries, you can apply.

Can we submit multiple EIC Accelerator applications at once?

+ —

No, applicants can only submit one EIC Accelerator proposal at a given time.

Can the EIC Fund invest more than we asked for?

+ —

The Jury Panel can advise applicants about making modifications to the requested budget and/or comment on the expected milestones, but may not change the type of funding requested.

What is the EIC Accelerator Program?

The European Innovation Council (EIC) supports visionary innovators, startups, and SMEs in turning bold ideas into breakthrough technologies and successful businesses. With an integrated approach spanning early-stage research to scaling, the EIC offers unparalleled opportunities to transform innovative concepts into market-ready solutions.

The EIC Accelerator provides financial backing and strategic guidance to SMEs and startups with market-ready innovations that disrupt and redefine industries. By providing financial support and strategic guidance, the EIC Accelerator enables businesses to create new markets, disrupt existing industries, and attract large-scale investments.

Funding Highlights:

Up to €2.5M grants and €10M equity investments.
Focus areas: Generative AI, future mobility, space robotics, and low-emission food systems.
Technology Readiness Level: Market entry and scaling (TRL 6-8/9)
Two kinds of calls – open calls for any technological field or challenge-driven calls (see below).

What Does the EIC Accelerator Offer?

The EIC Accelerator supports projects that:
✅ Are high-risk, high-reward innovations building on scientific discovery or technological breakthroughs.
✅ Require patient capital—long-term funding before profitability is reached.
✅ Have the potential to scale up and dominate global markets.

Funding & Support

💰 Total Budget:

€384M for the Open Call
€250M for Challenge-driven Calls

💶 Funding Per Project:

Up to €2.5M in grants (70% funding rate, 25% overhead).
Up to €10M in equity investment.
Blended financing (grant + equity) is available.
Extra acceleration services to connect companies with investors and corporates.

EIC Accelerator 2025 Challenges

In addition to the Open Call, startups and SMEs can apply for funding under specific challenge-driven calls, including:
🚀 Advanced Materials & Value Chain Scaling
🌱 Biotech for Low-Emission Food & Feed
🤖 Generative AI: European Champions
🛰️ In-Space Operations & Robotics
🚗 Future Mobility Breakthroughs

Who can apply?

✔️ Startups & SMEs with under 250 employees.
✔️ Mid-cap companies (up to 499 employees) can apply for equity-only funding.
✔️ Must be based in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country.

Application Process

📝 Step 1: Short application (12 pages), pitch deck (10 slides), and a 3-minute video.
📝 Step 2: Full proposal (50 pages), evaluated on Excellence, Impact, and Implementation.
🗣️ Final Interview: Selected applicants pitch their innovation to an EIC Jury.

📅 Deadlines in 2025:
📍 March 12, 2025
📍 October 1, 2025