EIC Accelerator Challenge: Technologies for Open Strategic Autonomy
The EIC Accelerator Challenge: Technologies for Open Strategic Autonomy supports highly innovative start-ups and SMEs to develop breakthrough innovations in critical strategic areas. This program provides blended finance, combining grants and equity investments, to foster European leadership and reduce dependencies in key technologies.
Who is Funded
The EIC Accelerator Challenge primarily targets single companies, particularly innovative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and small mid-caps, within EU Member States and Associated Countries. The program's core objective is to advance technologies crucial for Europe's open strategic autonomy across various vital sectors.
What is Funded
The EIC Accelerator Challenge supports breakthrough innovations across diverse strategic sectors, focusing on areas vital for Europe's autonomy. Funding covers activities leading up to market readiness, with grants typically supporting technological development and equity investments facilitating market entry and scale-up.
Type and Scope of Funding
The EIC Accelerator Challenge offers a flexible financial support package, primarily through blended finance, which combines a grant with an equity investment. This adaptable approach is designed to meet the diverse funding needs of highly innovative projects, from development to market scale-up.
Conditions and Requirements
Applicants and beneficiaries must adhere to specific conditions covering application formats, partnership structures, budgetary rules, and other operational provisions. These requirements ensure alignment with the program's objectives and facilitate transparent project implementation.
Application Procedure
The application process for the EIC Accelerator Challenge is a multi-stage, competitive procedure involving an AI-based platform for submission and a rigorous evaluation by experts and a jury. This structured approach ensures a thorough assessment of each proposal's innovation potential and market readiness.
Legal Basis
The EIC Accelerator Challenge operates under a robust legal framework established by comprehensive EU documents and guidelines, ensuring transparency, fairness, and proper management of funds. These foundational texts govern all aspects of the program, from eligibility to financial administration.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Closed
Maximum Amount:
2,500,000 € (for grant component, up to 70% of eligible costs)
Allocated Budget:
1,167,846,081 € (annual budget for the EIC Accelerator program in 2022)
Open Until:
31.12.2027
Award Channel:
Framework Programme Call
Region:
European Union Member States and Associated Countries. Applicants from the United Kingdom are eligible for 'grant only' support, subject to association negotiations. Non-associated third country entities must establish or relocate to an EU Member State or Associated Country.
Sectors:
Healthcare, Medical Technology, Pharmaceutical Industry, Environmental and Climate Protection, Information and Communication Technology, Software Development, Research and Development, Financial Technology, Energy Production and Supply, Renewable Energy, Other
Application Type:
Single Applicant
Funding Stages:
Experimental Development, Prototyping, Pilot Testing, Product Development, Process Optimization, Market Introduction, Scaling, Commercialization
Funding Provider
Program Level:
European Union
Funding Body:
European Commission
Managed By:
European Innovation Council and SME Executive Agency (EISMEA)
Additional Partners:
EIC Fund, European Investment Bank (EIB) - investment advisor to EIC Fund
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