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European Innovation Council (EIC) Pre-accelerator

Increased business, investor and technology readiness.

At a glance

Funding type

Grants to develop the technology, business and investment readiness in widening countries

Technology readiness level

Four to six

Funding amount

Up to €500 000

Focus areas

Deep innovation 

The process

Turning your innovation into funded reality, one step at a time.  

Finding calls 

  • The EIC Pre-Accelerator has a two-step application process: first, you submit a written proposal. Then, if it passes evaluation, it goes to the EIC Jury for evaluation. Each step unlocks the next. 
  • You can apply anytime via the EU Funding and Tenders Portal. To find open calls quickly, set the filters to Programme = “HORIZON” and Submission Status = “Open for submission,” then search for “EIC PRE-ACCELERATOR.” This will give you the full list of relevant opportunities. 

Registration 

Evaluation 

  • Proposals will be assessed according to EIC Transition criteria assessment criteria:  excellence, impact, and implementation quality and efficiency. This is detailed on the EIC Work Programme chapter “How does the EIC decide if your proposal will be funded?” section as well as in the open call General Conditions. 
  • In addition, you will gain free access to tailored EIC Business Acceleration Services, be awarded a Seal of Excellence, and get a fast track to the EIC Accelerator step two – full proposal.  

Support materials 

The following resources can guide your application via the FTP:  

Eligibility

Not sure if you qualify? We will help make it clear.

Who can apply? 

  • EIC Pre-accelerator is restricted to proposals from widening countries.  
  • As detailed, you must have high impact innovation, possess the necessary intellectual property rights, have a clear path to market and have the intent to scale up.   

Funding 

  • A lump sum of €300 000 to €500 000 is given to support early-stage development of future technologies. 
  • You can receive 70% of the eligible cost of the project, with the 30% being co-funded through your own resources. 

Resources

This site covers the essentials. For additional information, visit the links below.

Where to find information?   

Contacts   

  • 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.