EIC Accelerator
From the weekly review: Current funding opportunities for businesses
GoalSupport the growth of high-risk, innovative deep-tech companies in the European Union.
EU-level funding (grant and equity investment) for deep-tech SMEs with high growth potential.
- Who it is for
- SMEs and small mid-caps from EU Member States, including Latvia.
- Support amount
- Up to 2.5 million euros grant + up to 10 million euros equity investment (blended finance).
- Deadline
- 04.11.2026Next Step 2 application deadline — 4 November 2026 at 17:00 (Brussels time); continuous programme with periodic cut-offs.
Who can apply
Single start-ups and SMEs (including spin-outs) as well as small mid-caps (up to 499 employees) from EU Member States and countries associated to Horizon Europe can apply. Natural persons or legal entities intending to establish an SME or mid-cap are also eligible. Small mid-caps may apply for the investment component only.
Maximum support
Grant component below EUR 2.5 million and equity investments from EUR 1 to 10 million.
What can be paid for
- Innovation activities (TRL 6-8)
- Direct equity or quasi-equity investments (such as convertible loans)
- Coaching, mentoring, expertise, and training
- Networking and access to Business Acceleration Services (BAS)
Key conditions
- Innovation activities must be completed within 24 months
- Applicants may submit only one application at a time
- Grant-only funding is provided only once during the Horizon Europe programme (2021-2027)
- Small mid-caps can apply for investment only for TRL 9 scale-up activities
- Applicants from third countries must relocate their company before submitting the full proposal
How to apply
Applications are submitted through the Funding and Tenders portal in stages. Applicants first submit a short proposal at any time (12-page form, pitch deck of up to 10 slides, and a 3-minute video pitch). If approved, they submit a full proposal, and top candidates are invited to an interview with the EIC Jury.
What this is based on
European Innovation Council (EIC) Work Programme 2026
This summary is written in plain language from the programme rules. For the exact requirements, see the legal act.
Other programmes from this week
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