EIC Accelerator (European Innovation Council funding for deep tech SMEs)
From the weekly review: Current funding opportunities for businesses
GoalTo support the development and scaling of high-risk, market-creating deep tech innovations for EU SMEs.
The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator offers blended finance (grant + equity investment) for SMEs and small mid-caps with high-risk innovative solutions.
- Who it is for
- SMEs and small mid-caps from EU Member States, including Latvia.
- Support amount
- Up to 2 500 000 EUR grant + up to 10 000 000 EUR equity investment (blended finance).
- Deadline
- 04.11.2026Next Step 2 deadline — 4 November 2026 at 17:00 (Brussels time); continuous programme with periodic deadlines.
Who can apply
Single start-ups and SMEs from EU Member States or Horizon Europe associated countries, as well as individuals intending to establish an SME, can apply. Small mid-caps (up to 499 employees) can apply for the investment component only. Applicants from third countries must relocate their company to an eligible country before submitting the full proposal.
Maximum support
Grant component below €2.5 million and equity investments from €1 to €10 million.
What can be paid for
- Innovation activities (TRL 6-8)
- TRL 9 scale-up activities (under investment component)
- Direct equity or quasi-equity (such as convertible loans)
- Business Acceleration Services (coaching, mentoring, training, and networking)
Key conditions
- Grant innovation activities must be completed within 24 months
- Applicants may submit only one application at a time
- "Grant only" support is provided only once during Horizon Europe (2021–2027)
- Small mid-caps (up to 499 employees) can apply for investment only
- Full proposals require an implementation plan, financial information, Letters of Intent, and an FTO analysis
How to apply
The application process has multiple steps. First, submit a short proposal at any time (12-page form, 10-slide pitch deck, and 3-minute video), evaluated on the first Tuesday of each month. If successful, prepare and submit a full proposal via the Funding and Tenders portal on a batching date, followed by an interview with the EIC Jury.
What this is based on
EIC Work Programme 2026 (Horizon Europe)
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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