At a glance
Funding type
Grants supporting research teams
Technology readiness level
One to four
Funding amount
Up to €4 million
Focus areas
Deep Innovation
The Process
Turning your innovation into funded reality, one step at a time.
Getting Started
- Before applying to EIC Pathfinder Open, check the Pathfinder Challenges in the latest EIC Work Programme to see if your project fits one of the defined topics.
- The EIC work programme is typically published in late autumn/early winter for the following year.
Finding calls
- You can apply anytime via the EU Funding and Tenders Portal (FTP).
- To quickly find EIC Pathfinder Open calls, set the filters to Programme = “HORIZON”, select Calls = “PATHFINDEROPEN”, and select the current year.
Registration
- Every organisation involved must register (or already be registered) on the portal and obtain a Participant Identification Code. If you have questions about this process, you can watch the PIC registration and validation process video for guidance.
Proposal Submission
- Expect to submit your proposal by the deadline around Q2 (April or May).
Evaluation
- Once submitted, your proposal is evaluated by a panel of independent experts. You’ll typically hear back within five months of the deadline.
- If selected, your grant agreement should be signed within eight months (indicative), and you’ll be ready to launch your project.
Support Materials
The following resources can guide your application:
- About EIC
- FTP short tutorials
- FTP for beginners (webinar)
- How to submit a proposal via the FTP (online manual)
- EIC Pathfinder FAQs
Eligibility criteria
Not sure if you qualify? We will help make it clear.
Who can apply?
- At least three independent organisations including one based in an EU Member State and two others from different EU Member States or Associated countries.
- Check the official eligibility rules in the EIC work programme for the year (Annex two – B) available for preview and download on the EIC Pathfinder page.
Funding
- Details on eligible activities and funding rates are also available on the EIC work programme on the EIC Pathfinder page.
General tips
Tips and tricks to help you strengthen your application from previous successful applicants.
Resources
This site covers the essentials. For additional information, visit the links below.
- EIC Business Acceleration Services including access to coaches, mentors, and global partners.
- For personalised guidance, reach out to your local National Contact Point, who can assist in your language and help improve your application.
- The EIC also provides a Communication Toolkit to help you promote your project through public relations, events, and media.
- EIC Prizes
- EIC Fund