EIC Accelerator

Version: December 2023 Note: This article contains a summary of the official EIC Fund investment guidelines and contains simplifications that can change the intended meaning in some cases. We recommend to download and read the official document. Introduction The EIC Investment Guidelines provide essential information to potential beneficiaries and co-investors regarding the strategy and conditions for EIC Fund investment and divestment decisions. This updated version includes definitions of qualified investors, descriptions of investment scenarios, and new clauses on follow-on investments and exits, ensuring support for high-potential startups and SMEs to accelerate growth and attract additional investors. This document applies specifically to the EIC Fund Horizon Europe compartment. Table of Contents Investment Rules 1.1 Investment Restrictions 1.2 Investment Objective 1.3 Investment Strategy 1.4 Compartment Investment Process Investment Guidelines 2.1 Target Company Development Stage 2.2 Type of Innovations 2.3 Protection of European Interests 2.4 Geographical Scope 2.5 Exclusions 2.6 Investment Size and Equity Stake Targets 2.7 Investment/Co-Investment Scenarios 2.8 Due Diligence Process 2.9 Possible Financial Instruments 2.10 Investment Implementation 2.11 Publication of Information 2.12 Monitoring and Follow-Up Investments 2.13 Follow-On Investments 2.14 Mentors 2.15 Intellectual Property Management Investment Buckets Annex 1. Definitions Annex 2. Exclusions 1. Investment Rules 1.1 Investment Restrictions The Compartment is subject to the Investment Restrictions set out in the General Section of the EIC Fund Memorandum. These restrictions ensure that the Compartment operates within the boundaries established by the EIC Fund, maintaining consistency and alignment with the overall objectives. 1.2 Investment Objective The objective of the Compartment is to invest in EIC Fund Final Recipients developing or deploying breakthrough technologies and disruptive, market-creating innovations. The Compartment aims to address a critical financing gap in the European technology transfer market. Despite significant grant funding for research and innovation projects in Europe, very few manage to attract further investment and reach commercialisation and scale-up stages. 1.3 Investment Strategy To achieve its Investment Objective, the Compartment may invest directly in equity securities or equity-related securities, including preferred equity, convertible debt, options, warrants, or similar securities. The Compartment provides the investment component of the EIC blended finance, subject to the maximum investment amount set by the EU Commission. Candidate companies apply to the EIC Accelerator through public calls for proposals published by the EU Commission. The EISMEA evaluates these proposals, and the EU Commission selects those to be supported with an indicative EIC blended finance amount. This support may consist of a combination of a grant and investment, grant-only, or investment-only support. In cases where European interests in strategic areas need protection, the EIC Fund will take measures such as acquiring a blocking minority to prevent the entry of new investors from non-eligible countries. This approach ensures that investments align with strategic priorities and protect European interests. 1.4 Compartment Investment Process The investment process involves several steps: Initial Assessment: Proposals selected by the EU Commission are channeled to the External AIFM for initial assessment. Categorization: Cases are categorized into various investment scenarios (Buckets) based on the assessment. Due Diligence: Financial due diligence and KYC compliance checks are performed on target companies. Financing Terms Discussion: Potential draft financing terms are discussed with the beneficiary and co-investors. Decision Making: The External AIFM decides on financing operations, approving or rejecting the operation. Legal Documentation: Upon approval, legal documents are prepared and signed. Monitoring: The External AIFM monitors the investments, including milestone disbursements, reporting, and exit strategies. 2. Investment Guidelines 2.1 Target Company Development Stage Eligible applicants under the EIC Accelerator include for-profit, highly innovative SMEs, start-ups, early-stage companies, and small mid-caps from any sector, typically with a strong intellectual property component. The EIC Accelerator aims to support high-risk projects that are not yet attractive to investors, de-risking these projects to catalyse private investment. 2.2 Type of Innovations The Compartment supports various types of innovation, particularly those based on deep-tech or radical thinking, and social innovation. Deep-tech refers to technology based on cutting-edge scientific advances and discoveries, requiring constant interaction with new ideas and lab results. 2.3 Protection of European Interests In strategic areas identified by the EU Commission, the Compartment will take investment-related measures to protect European interests. This may include acquiring a blocking minority, investing despite potential investor interest, or securing European ownership of intellectual property and the company. 2.4 Geographical Scope Eligible companies must be established and operating in EU Member States or Associated Countries to Horizon Europe Pillar III Equity component. The External AIFM may invest in the holding or parent company established in these territories, provided it meets all eligibility criteria. 2.5 Exclusions Investments exclude sectors incompatible with the ethical and social basis of Horizon Europe. These include activities related to harmful labor practices, illegal products, pornography, wildlife trade, hazardous materials, unsustainable fishing methods, and others as detailed in Annex 2. 2.6 Investment Size and Equity Stake Targets The Compartment’s investment ranges between EUR 500,000 and EUR 15,000,000 per company, targeting minority ownership stakes typically between 10% and 20%. However, it may acquire a blocking stake to protect European interests. Investments may be lower or higher than initially proposed based on due diligence findings and the EU Commission’s award decision. 2.7 Investment/Co-Investment Scenarios From the onset, the External AIFM will connect potential investee companies to the EIC Accelerator investor community to leverage co-investment opportunities. EIC Selected Beneficiaries are encouraged to seek co-investors, with financial and commercial due diligence potentially performed jointly with these investors. The EIC Accelerator aims to de-risk selected operations, attracting significant additional funding to support innovation deployment and scale-up. 2.8 Due Diligence Process The due diligence process focuses on governance, capital structure, business strategy, competition, market assessment, value creation, legal form, and jurisdictions. Compliance checks include anti-money laundering, anti-terrorism financing, tax-avoidance, and KYC compliance. Non-compliance issues may lead to the interruption or cessation of EIC support. 2.9 Possible Financial Instruments The Compartment primarily uses equity or quasi-equity investments, including: Common Shares: Ownership interest in a corporation, may be voting or non-voting. Preferred Shares: Hybrid equity with debt-like features, usually held by VC funds. Convertible Instruments: Debt instruments … Read more

Unlocking Innovation: The EIC Accelerator Step 1 Proposal Template – A Guide for Startups and SMEs In the dynamic world of startup financing, the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator presents a compelling pathway for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to secure substantial funding. The Step 1 proposal template is a critical tool designed to facilitate access to up to €17.5 million in blended financing, which includes both grant and equity components. This article provides a detailed overview of the contents and usefulness of the EIC Accelerator Step 1 proposal template, which is tailored to empower startups and SMEs across the European Union (EU). The Essence of the EIC Accelerator Step 1 Proposal Template Official Proposal Template: The Step 1 proposal template serves as the official blueprint for applicants, meticulously designed to streamline the application process for EIC funding. It encompasses essential sections that require applicants to succinctly articulate their innovation, business model, and the potential impact of their technology. This structured approach ensures that all critical aspects of the proposal are covered systematically. Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Focus: A pivotal part of the template is the emphasis on Technology Readiness Levels. Applicants must demonstrate their innovation’s maturity, which is crucial for aligning with the EIC’s expectations of market readiness and potential for deployment. Pitch Deck and Interview Preparation: The proposal template is strategically designed to help applicants prepare for subsequent stages of the funding process. It encourages a concise yet comprehensive presentation of ideas, which forms the backbone of the pitch deck and sets the stage for the interview process. How the Template Empowers Applicants Streamlined Process for Applicants: By providing a clear structure, the template demystifies the application process, making it accessible even to newcomers in the EU funding landscape. It guides applicants through a series of well-defined steps, helping them present their innovation narrative effectively. Designed for High Impact: The template focuses on high-impact innovations, prompting applicants to think critically about the market needs and the unique value proposition of their technology. This focus is aligned with the EIC’s goal to support projects that have the potential to scale up and achieve significant market penetration. Support for a Broad Range of Innovators: From professional writers and freelancers to consultants, the template serves as a resource that can be utilized by various stakeholders involved in the grant writing process. It provides a standardized framework that ensures consistency and quality across applications. The Financial and Strategic Impact Blended Financing Opportunities: The template effectively opens the door to blended financing opportunities, comprising a €2.5 million grant and up to €15 million in equity financing. This substantial financial backing is designed to accelerate the development and scaling of groundbreaking innovations. Equity Financing Insights: For ventures that are potentially non-bankable and where traditional funding mechanisms fall short, the equity option presented in the template is a game-changer. It offers a direct pathway to significant funding, crucial for aggressive growth and expansion strategies. European Commission and EIC Endorsement: Using the official template aligns projects with the strategic priorities of the European Commission and the EIC. It ensures that proposals are evaluated on criteria that reflect the broader objectives of EU innovation funding, enhancing the credibility and appeal of the projects. Conclusion The EIC Accelerator Step 1 proposal template is not just a document; it’s a strategic tool that can significantly enhance the chances of securing funding by aligning startups and SMEs with the critical elements sought by the EIC. It encourages clarity, conciseness, and focus, which are essential for passing the rigorous evaluation process. By leveraging this template, startups and SMEs can effectively articulate their innovation stories, demonstrating their potential to transform industries and scale new heights in the European market. EIC Accelerator Step 1 Short Proposal Proposal Template 1. Company Description Founding Story The inception of the company is traced back to its founding date, highlighting its origins as a spin-off from a notable research institute. This narrative details the collaboration between co-founders and the initial investments secured, illustrating a trajectory from a promising idea to an established entity. Such a foundation story not only enhances the company’s profile but also solidifies its position as a credible and innovative player in the tech industry, aiming to attract attention from stakeholders including the European Innovation Council (EIC). Mission and Vision The mission and vision of the company encapsulate its core objectives and the aspirational impact it aims to achieve on a global scale. The mission is crafted around solving critical industry challenges, leveraging innovation to improve efficiencies or address significant market gaps. This visionary approach positions the company as a forward-thinking leader committed to making substantial advancements in its field. The emphasis on transforming theoretical ideas into practical, market-ready solutions aligns well with the goals of the European Innovation Council, illustrating a commitment to not only lead in innovation but also to contribute positively to societal and economic growth. Company Achievements The company’s achievements are a testament to its growth and innovation, marked by significant milestones such as awards, financial successes, and technological advancements. These accomplishments are crucial in establishing the company’s credibility and highlighting its capacity to meet and exceed industry standards. Recognition from reputable bodies through awards and the successful achievement of critical technology readiness levels underscore the company’s potential and readiness for further growth. Such a track record is essential in building trust with the European Innovation Council and potential investors, positioning the company as a robust candidate for future opportunities in the European Union’s competitive tech landscape. Customer Relationships The company has nurtured robust relationships with a diverse range of customers, enhancing its market position and solidifying its reputation in the industry. These relationships are not just transactional but are enriched through collaborations, providing mutual benefits and strengthening the company’s foothold in the market. Highlighting the top customers and detailing the nature of these interactions showcases the company’s ability to maintain valuable partnerships. Furthermore, securing Letters of Intent (LOI) from these key stakeholders not only demonstrates their … Read more

Universities have long been the birthplace of some of the most groundbreaking and transformative technologies our world has seen. Rooted in rigorous academic research and fostered by an environment of intellectual curiosity, these institutions are not just centers of learning but pivotal incubators for innovative entrepreneurs. Especially within the realm of scientific technologies, universities and research institutes stand at the forefront of what we now commonly refer to as DeepTech – technologies that offer profound advancements across various sectors including healthcare, energy, and computing, to name a few. The University-Entrepreneurship Nexus The journey from academic research to entrepreneurial venture is a path tread by many innovators. Universities, with their wealth of resources, including state-of-the-art labs, access to funding, and a network of like-minded thinkers, offer an unparalleled ecosystem for nurturing early-stage DeepTech projects. It’s within these academic halls that the foundational research takes place – often long before a market application is even considered. One of the key elements of this environment is the encouragement of cross-disciplinary collaboration. It’s not uncommon for a breakthrough in material science at a university to pave the way for revolutionary new products in the consumer electronics space or for biomedical research to lead to the development of groundbreaking medical devices. These technologies, born from academic projects, have the potential to address critical global challenges and pave the way for new industries. Bridging the Gap: From Academia to Industry However, the path from a university project to a successful DeepTech company is fraught with challenges. The process of commercializing scientific research requires more than just technical expertise; it demands a keen understanding of the market, strategic business planning, and the ability to secure investment. Herein lies the role of entrepreneurship programs and technology transfer offices within universities, which aim to bridge this gap. They provide budding entrepreneurs with the mentorship, funding, and business acumen needed to bring their innovations to market. Additionally, the role of public and private funding cannot be overstated. Initiatives like the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program offer critical support through grants and equity financing for startups that are navigating the treacherous waters of commercializing DeepTech. These programs not only provide financial backing but also lend credibility to the startups, attracting further investment and partnerships. Real-World Impact and the Future The impact of university-produced DeepTech innovations on the global stage is undeniable. From the creation of life-saving medical technologies to the development of sustainable energy solutions, these advancements are shaping the future. As we look ahead, the role of universities as incubators of innovation will only grow in importance. With the right support structures in place, the potential for these academic endeavors to transform into successful, world-changing enterprises is boundless. In conclusion, universities are not just centers of learning but pivotal cradles of innovation, nurturing the entrepreneurs who are set to redefine our world with DeepTech innovations. As these academic institutions continue to evolve, their potential to contribute to global economic and societal advancements is unlimited. With continued support and investment, the bridge from academia to industry will strengthen, ushering in a new era of transformative technologies. From Lab Bench to Market: The Funding Odyssey of University-Based Startups The transition from academic research to a successful startup is a daunting journey, especially for founders originating from fields such as chemistry, pharma, biology, and physics. These scientific entrepreneurs face a unique set of challenges, chief among them being the arduous task of securing funding. Unlike their counterparts in more commercial sectors, scientists turned startup founders often find themselves in unfamiliar territory when it comes to fundraising. The Fundraising Challenge for Scientific Entrepreneurs The core of the problem lies in the expertise gap. Scientists are trained to explore, discover, and innovate, focusing on the advancement of knowledge rather than the intricacies of business models, market fit, or investor pitching. This gap often leaves them at a disadvantage in a competitive funding landscape dominated by investors looking for quick returns and businesses with clear market applications. Moreover, the nature of DeepTech and scientific startups means they typically require significant upfront investment for research and development, with longer paths to market and profitability. This further complicates their appeal to traditional venture capitalists, who may shy away from the inherent risks and extended timelines. Grants: A Lifeline for Getting Started In light of these challenges, grants play a crucial role in the early stages of a scientific startup’s lifecycle. Funding mechanisms such as the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program become lifelines, offering not just financial support but also validation of the scientific venture’s potential impact. Grants from governmental and international bodies provide the essential capital needed to transition from proof-of-concept to a viable product, without diluting the founders’ equity or forcing them into premature commercialization strategies. Building a Bridge: The Role of University Incubators and Entrepreneurship Programs Recognizing the unique challenges faced by their scientific entrepreneurs, many universities have established incubators and entrepreneurship programs designed to bridge the knowledge gap. These programs offer mentorship, business training, and access to networks of investors specifically interested in DeepTech and scientific innovations. They aim to equip scientists with the necessary skills to navigate the funding landscape, from crafting compelling pitch decks to understanding the financial metrics crucial to investors. The Path Forward Despite the hurdles, the potential societal and economic benefits of scientific startups are immense. With their ability to address pressing global challenges through innovation, supporting these ventures is of paramount importance. Strengthening the ecosystem that supports scientific entrepreneurs, from enhanced grant programs to more specialized investor networks, is critical for their success. In conclusion, while the journey from university lab to market is fraught with challenges, especially in securing funding, there is a growing recognition of the need to support these pioneers of innovation. By bridging the expertise gap and leveraging grants as a springboard, the path forward for scientific startups is becoming clearer, promising a future where their transformative potential can be fully realized. Navigating Intellectual Property: A Guide for University Spinoff Founders The … Read more

In an era marked by rapid technological advancement and innovation, the term “DeepTech” has emerged as a buzzword synonymous with startups and the tech industry at large. But what exactly does “DeepTech” mean, and why is it pivotal for startups and technology sectors? DeepTech, or deep technology, refers to cutting-edge technologies that offer significant advancements over existing solutions. These technologies are characterized by their profound potential to disrupt industries, create new markets, and solve complex challenges. Unlike mainstream technology that focuses on incremental improvements, DeepTech dives deeper into scientific discoveries or engineering innovations to bring about radical change. The Essence of DeepTech At its core, DeepTech embodies technologies rooted in substantial scientific advances and high-tech engineering innovation. These technologies are often associated with sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, blockchain, advanced materials, biotechnology, and quantum computing. The unifying factor among these is their foundational reliance on profound, substantive research and development (R&D) efforts, often resulting in breakthroughs that could take years to mature and commercialize. DeepTech in Startups and the Tech Industry For startups, venturing into DeepTech represents both a colossal opportunity and a formidable challenge. The development cycle for DeepTech innovations is typically longer and requires more substantial capital investment compared to software or digital startups. However, the payoff can be transformative, offering solutions to pressing global issues, from climate change to healthcare crises. The technology industry’s interest in DeepTech is driven by the promise of creating lasting value and establishing new frontiers in technology. Unlike consumer tech, which can be subject to rapid shifts in consumer preferences, DeepTech offers foundational changes that can redefine industries for decades. The Path Forward Navigating the DeepTech landscape demands a blend of visionary scientific research, robust funding mechanisms, and strategic industry partnerships. For startups, this means securing investment from stakeholders who understand the long-term nature of DeepTech projects. It also requires a commitment to R&D and a willingness to pioneer uncharted territories. The significance of DeepTech goes beyond mere technological advancement; it’s about building the future. By harnessing the power of deep technologies, startups have the potential to usher in a new era of innovation, solving some of the world’s most intricate challenges with solutions that were once deemed impossible. In conclusion, DeepTech stands at the intersection of groundbreaking scientific research and technological innovation. For startups and the tech industry, it represents the next frontier of discovery and disruption. Embracing DeepTech is not just an investment in technology; it’s a commitment to a future where the boundaries of what’s possible are continually expanded. The Unique Capital Dynamics of DeepTech: Navigating the Waters of Innovation In the burgeoning world of startups, DeepTech stands out not only for its ambition to push the boundaries of innovation but also for its distinct financial and developmental landscape. DeepTech startups, by their nature, delve into areas that are both capital-intensive and time-consuming, often focusing on hardware developments or groundbreaking scientific research that necessitates a different breed of investment: patient capital. The Capital Intensive Nature of DeepTech DeepTech ventures often require substantial initial investments, significantly higher than those of their software counterparts. This is primarily due to the hardware-intensive aspects of many DeepTech projects, such as in biotechnology, robotics, and clean energy. The development of physical products or the implementation of novel scientific discoveries demands not only specialized equipment and materials but also access to advanced research facilities. The Time Factor Beyond financial considerations, time plays a crucial role in the development of DeepTech innovations. Unlike software startups, where products can be developed, tested, and iterated upon in relatively short cycles, DeepTech projects often span years or even decades. This extended timeframe is due to the complex nature of the technology being developed, the necessity for extensive testing and certification processes, and the challenge of bringing groundbreaking innovations to market. Patient Capital: A Vital Ingredient for Success Given these unique challenges, DeepTech startups require investors who are prepared for a longer journey to return on investment (ROI). This “patient capital” is willing to support startups through the lengthy periods of R&D and market introduction inherent in DeepTech ventures. Such investors typically have a deep understanding of the specific industries and the potential impact of the innovations, enabling them to see beyond short-term gains towards the transformative potential of these technologies. Why Patient Capital Matters The significance of patient capital extends beyond merely providing financial resources. It includes mentorship, industry connections, and strategic guidance, all of which are crucial for navigating the complex landscape of DeepTech. Moreover, patient capital helps foster a culture of innovation where entrepreneurs can focus on breakthroughs that might not have immediate commercial viability but have the potential to create substantial societal and economic impacts in the long run. In conclusion, the journey of DeepTech startups is uniquely challenging, requiring more than just financial investment. It demands a commitment to a vision that transcends traditional investment timelines, offering the promise of revolutionary advancements. For those willing to embark on this journey, the rewards are not just in potential financial returns but in contributing to the advancements that could shape the future of our society. The Rising Attraction of DeepTech Investments: Unique Technologies and Higher Returns The investment landscape is witnessing a significant shift towards DeepTech, driven by its potential for higher returns and its inherent uniqueness. DeepTech companies, by their nature, delve into groundbreaking technological advancements, often protected by patents and intellectual property (IP) rights. This uniqueness not only differentiates them from the crowded space of software startups but also offers a layer of competition protection that is highly valued by investors. High Returns and Competitive Moats DeepTech investments are increasingly attractive due to the potential for substantial financial returns. The technologies developed within DeepTech sectors—ranging from biotechnology and advanced materials to artificial intelligence and quantum computing—have the power to disrupt industries and create entirely new markets. This transformative potential translates into significant financial opportunities for investors who are early supporters of such innovations. Moreover, the complexity and proprietary nature of DeepTech innovations … Read more

In the dynamic landscape of European Union (EU) funding, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has introduced notable changes under its 2024 Work Programme, directly impacting the application and evaluation process for funding. Among these adjustments, the elimination of the rebuttal process stands out, signifying a shift towards a more streamlined and independent assessment of proposals. This article delves into the implications of this change for startups and Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) seeking EIC Accelerator funding, aiming to demystify the new approach and offer strategic guidance for applicants. The Shift Away from the Rebuttal Process Historically, the EIC Accelerator application process allowed applicants to address and “rebut” comments from previous evaluations in subsequent submissions. This rebuttal process enabled organizations to refine and improve their proposals based on specific feedback, theoretically increasing their chances of success in future rounds. However, under the 2024 EIC Work Programme, this mechanism has been removed. Consequently, there is no longer a structured avenue for applicants to incorporate improvements from previous submissions directly in response to evaluator comments. Independent Evaluation of Proposals A significant change accompanying the removal of the rebuttal process is the approach to evaluating proposals. Evaluators will no longer have access to any previous submissions or evaluation reports from earlier rounds. This ensures that each proposal is assessed independently, solely on its merits and in alignment with the standard Horizon Europe evaluation criteria. This change aims to level the playing field, ensuring that all applications, whether from first-time submitters or those reapplying, receive an unbiased review. Incorporating Improvements in the Narrative While the structured rebuttal process has been phased out, applicants retain the ability to refine their proposals based on past feedback. Improvements and enhancements can still be included in the narrative Part B of the application form. However, it is important to note that there is no specific format or section designated for this purpose. Applicants must therefore seamlessly integrate any adjustments into the overall proposal narrative, ensuring that the improvements are coherent and enhance the proposal’s overall quality and feasibility. Strategic Implications for Applicants This modification in the EIC’s evaluation process necessitates a strategic pivot for applicants. Startups and SMEs should focus on crafting a robust and compelling proposal from the outset, integrating continuous improvement as a core strategy rather than relying on specific feedback loops. Applicants are encouraged to: Conduct thorough self-assessment: Prior to submission, critically evaluate your proposal against the EIC’s criteria and objectives, identifying areas for enhancement without relying on external feedback. Leverage professional support: Engage with consultants, professional writers, or freelancers experienced in EU grant applications to refine your proposal, ensuring it aligns with the EIC’s current priorities and standards. Emphasize innovation and impact: With each proposal evaluated on its own merits, highlight your project’s innovation, market potential, and societal impact, making a compelling case for EIC funding. Conclusion The 2024 EIC Work Programme introduces a paradigm shift in how proposals are evaluated, with the removal of the rebuttal process underscoring a move towards more independent and merit-based assessments. While this change challenges applicants to adapt, it also opens opportunities to present their innovations in the best possible light, free from the shadow of previous submissions. By embracing a strategy of continuous improvement and leveraging professional expertise, startups and SMEs can navigate these changes successfully, positioning themselves strongly for EIC Accelerator funding.

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator is a cornerstone of the EU’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting startups and Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in bringing groundbreaking ideas to market. With the introduction of the EIC 2024 Work Programme, significant updates have been made to streamline processes and clarify the rules surrounding the submission and resubmission of proposals. This article aims to elucidate the new submission limits, offering a clear guide for entities aiming to secure funding through this competitive programme. Simplified Submission Rules The EIC 2024 Work Programme has introduced a more straightforward approach to the submission of proposals, addressing feedback and aiming to make the funding process more accessible. From the start of 2024, entities are allowed to submit up to three unsuccessful applications across any stage of the process and for any form of support. This includes: Short proposals Full proposals Challenge-specific calls Open calls Grant only Blended finance (combinations of grant and equity) Equity only This simplification means that applicants have three chances to secure funding, regardless of the stage or type of support applied for, before being precluded from further submissions under Horizon Europe’s EIC Accelerator. Resubmission After Rejection A noteworthy aspect of the new rules is the provision for resubmission following a rejection at the full proposal stage. Applicants who do not succeed at this stage are permitted to resubmit their proposal directly to the full proposal stage, bypassing the short proposal phase, provided they have not reached their three-application limit. However, direct resubmission to the interview phase is not allowed under any circumstances. Practical Examples To offer clarity, the Work Programme outlines several scenarios: After one rejection at the full proposal stage (whether during the remote evaluation or the interview), an entity may submit two more full proposals. Following two rejections at the interview stage, an entity is still eligible to submit a full proposal and could potentially be invited for a third interview. If an entity has been rejected once at either the full proposal or interview stage and once at the short proposal stage, they are entitled to one more submission at the full proposal stage. It’s important to note that the counter for unsuccessful applications resets to zero on 1 January 2024. This reset offers a fresh start for entities that may have previously reached their submission limit, providing new opportunities for funding under the Horizon Europe framework. Implications for Applicants These updated rules aim to balance the EIC Accelerator’s competitive nature with the need for flexibility and multiple opportunities for funding. Applicants should strategically plan their submissions, taking into account the feedback received from previous applications to strengthen their proposals. Engaging with professional writers, consultants, or leveraging the EIC Accelerator’s official proposal template can enhance the quality of submissions. Furthermore, applicants should remain mindful of the submission cap, prioritizing the refinement and improvement of their proposals with each attempt. The opportunity to resubmit directly to the full proposal stage after rejection is a significant advantage, allowing entities to address feedback and improve their applications without starting from scratch. Conclusion The EIC 2024 Work Programme’s simplified rules on submission and resubmission signify a positive step towards making EU funding more accessible to innovative enterprises. By understanding these regulations and strategically planning their applications, startups and SMEs can maximize their chances of securing the vital support needed to bring their innovations to the European and global markets.