EIC Accelerator Open 2021
The EIC Accelerator Open 2021 program, part of Horizon Europe, is a unique funding initiative designed to help deep tech startups and SMEs scale up high-impact innovations. It provides a blend of grant and equity financing, alongside comprehensive business acceleration services, to de-risk and attract further investment for groundbreaking technologies with market-creating potential. This program specifically targets innovations requiring significant, patient capital over long timeframes.
Who is Funded by EIC Accelerator Open 2021
The EIC Accelerator Open 2021 program targets innovative companies and individuals aiming to scale up disruptive technologies across various sectors. Eligibility extends to SMEs, small mid-caps, and even natural persons or legal entities committed to establishing or relocating businesses within the EU or Associated Countries. This program emphasizes supporting cutting-edge innovations that require substantial long-term investment.
What is Funded
The EIC Accelerator Open 2021 offers funding for innovative projects across all technology and application fields, with a particular focus on 'deep tech' innovations. Projects should be in the later stages of technology development, typically at Technology Readiness Level 5/6 or higher, and aim for commercialization and scale-up, excluding those with harmful environmental, social, or military applications.
Type and Scope of Funding
The EIC Accelerator Open 2021 provides flexible financial support, primarily through a 'blended finance' approach combining grants and equity investments, tailored to help innovative companies scale their solutions. The funding amounts range significantly to accommodate various stages of development and market needs. Projects typically target later-stage development and commercialization, ensuring financial support aligns with ambitious scale-up plans.
Conditions and Requirements
Applicants to the EIC Accelerator Open 2021 must adhere to specific conditions regarding eligibility, application format, and ethical considerations. The program targets single companies, with detailed requirements for different company sizes and origins. A multi-stage application process is in place, and proposals must align with ethical and sustainability principles.
Application Procedure
The application process for the EIC Accelerator Open 2021 is a multi-stage procedure facilitated by an AI-based platform, starting with a short application and progressing to a full application and interview for successful candidates. The evaluation criteria and timelines are detailed in the EIC Work Programme.
Legal Basis
The EIC Accelerator Open 2021 operates under the foundational legal framework of Horizon Europe, with specific operational details and conditions outlined in key supporting documents and guidelines. These legal bases ensure transparency, proper management of funds, and adherence to EU policies for all program activities.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Closed
Maximum Amount:
17,500,000 €
Allocated Budget:
Total Budget: 592,500,000 € (for 2021)
Open Until:
31.12.2021
Award Channel:
Framework Programme Call
Region:
EU Member States and Associated Countries. Applicants from non-associated third countries are eligible if they establish or relocate an SME within a Member State or Associated Country. United Kingdom applicants are eligible for grant-only funding, subject to association agreement.
Sectors:
Other
Application Type:
Single Applicant
Funding Stages:
Applied Research, Experimental Development, Prototyping, Pilot Testing, Product Development, Scaling, Commercialization
Funding Provider
Program Level:
European Union
Funding Body:
European Commission
Managed By:
European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA)
Additional Partners:
Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) - support to the EIC Accelerator; European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) - supports Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) whose projects can apply via Fast Track scheme
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