Det European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025, etableret under Horizon Europe-rammen (2021-2027), skitserer EU's strategiske plan for at fremme banebrydende teknologier og spilskiftende innovationer i hele Europa. Med et finansieringsbudget på over 1,4 milliarder euro for 2025 er dette program rettet mod forskere, startups, SMV'er, scale-ups og investorer for at fremme innovationer med stor effekt, der stemmer overens med EU's mål inden for grøn omstilling, digital transformation og strategisk autonomi. Gennem en kombination af tilskud, investeringer og specialiserede tjenester sigter EIC mod at støtte banebrydende teknologiske fremskridt og opskalere lovende virksomheder i hele EU.

Dokumentet giver omfattende vejledning om EIC's tilgængelige finansieringsordninger, ansøgningsprocesser og udvælgelseskriterier, med det formål at strømline adgangen til ressourcer til højrisiko- og højbelønningsinitiativer. Det dækker også yderligere støttemekanismer såsom EIC's Business Acceleration Services, som omfatter adgang til coaching, mentorordninger, ekspertise og partnerskaber inden for innovationsøkosystemet.

Indholdsfortegnelse

1. Introduktion
   • Strategiske mål og nøglepræstationsindikatorer
   • Oversigt over arbejdsprogrammet for 2025
   • Nøglefunktioner ved EIC-support
   • Udsigter for 2026 og fremtidige år
2. EIC Pathfinder
   • EIC Pathfinder Åben
   • EIC Pathfinder udfordringer
     • Bioteknologi til klimabestandige afgrøder og plantebaseret biofremstilling
     • Generative AI-midler til medicinsk diagnose og kræftbehandling
     • Autonome robotkollektiver til byggemiljøer
     • Waste-to-Value-enheder til cirkulær produktion
3. EIC Transition
   • Støtte til teknologivalidering og udvikling af forretningsplaner
4. EIC Accelerator
   • EIC Accelerator Åben
   • EIC Accelerator udfordringer
     • Avanceret materialeudvikling og opskalering
     • Bioteknologi til lavemissionsfødevareproduktion
     • GenAI4EU: European Generative AI Champions
     • In-Space Service og modstandsdygtig EU-ruminfrastruktur
     • Innovationer i fremtidens mobilitet
5. EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call
   • Investeringsmuligheder for strategiske teknologier
6. Business Acceleration Services
   • EIC Business Coaches
   • EIC Community and Women Leadership Program
   • Investors opsøgende aktiviteter
   • Økosystempartnerskabsprogram og ESG-fremme
   • Deltagelse i messer
   • Globalt program for blød landing
7. EIC-priser
   • Europæisk pris for kvindelige innovatører
   • European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital)
8. Andre handlinger
   • Honorarer og udgifter til EIC-bestyrelsen
   • Ekstern ekspertise til overvågning og etik
   • Kommunikation, opsøgende og it-systemer
   • Danske og polske formandskabskonferencer
   • Women TechEU Initiative
   • Ekspertgruppe om EIC Plug-In Scheme
9. Bilag
   • Estimeret vejledende budget
   • Generelle betingelser
   • Fast Track-skema til EIC Accelerator
   • Pilot Plug-In Scheme til EIC Accelerator
   • Booster Grants til Pathfinder og Transition Awardees
   • Bestemmelser om intellektuel ejendomsret for Pathfinder og Transition

Denne strukturerede køreplan giver potentielle ansøgere vejledning om finansieringsmuligheder, berettigelseskriterier og støttetjenester, der er tilgængelige gennem EIC-arbejdsprogrammet, designet til at fremme banebrydende teknologi og virksomhedsvækst i EU.

1. Introduktion

Det Introduktion afsnit af European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025 skitserer EIC's strategiske tilgang og kernemål for år 2025, herunder dets mål, nøglepræstationsindikatorer og et overblik over de tilgængelige finansieringsordninger og støttemekanismer. Dette afsnit tjener som en vejledning for potentielle ansøgere til at forstå omfanget, prioriteterne og den operationelle ramme for EIC, og hjælper dem med at tilpasse deres projekter til EIC's mission om at fremme banebrydende innovationer og opskalere virkningsfulde teknologier i hele Europa.

Strategiske mål og nøglepræstationsindikatorer

EIC's strategi for 2025 drejer sig om seks kernemål designet til at spore og måle programmets succes, med specifikke nøglepræstationsindikatorer (KPI'er) tilpasset hvert mål. Disse mål er beregnet til at lede EIC's investeringer og operationer i retning af:

1. At blive den foretrukne investor – Tiltrækning af visionære iværksættere og forskere, herunder underrepræsenterede grupper såsom kvindelige innovatører og dem fra mindre udviklede økosystemer.
2. Trængsel i investeringer – At bygge bro over et kritisk finansieringsgab for at stimulere mellem 30-50 mia. EUR i europæiske deep-tech-investeringer.
3. Understøttelse af højrisikoteknologier – Målretning af strategiske områder, der er afgørende for samfundsbehov og EU's autonomi inden for kritiske teknologier.
4. Stigende europæiske scale-ups og enhjørninger – Målet er at vokse europæiske startups og SMV'er til et niveau, der konkurrerer globalt, især med USA og Asien.
5. Katalysering af innovation fra offentlig forskning – Opbygning af partnerskaber for at udnytte forskning og kommercialisere innovationer i hele EU.
6. Opnåelse af Operational Excellence – Forbedring af EIC-processer for at imødekomme forventningerne hos ansøgere, investorer og interessenter.

EIC-bestyrelsen gennemgår og rapporterer om fremskridt i forhold til disse KPI'er i årlige konsekvensrapporter, hvilket sikrer gennemsigtighed og ansvarlighed i, hvordan midler tildeles og innovationer understøttes.

Oversigt over arbejdsprogrammet for 2025

EIC's 2025-arbejdsprogram omfatter fire primære finansieringsordninger, der hver er rettet mod et andet trin i innovationscyklussen:

1. EIC Pathfinder – Fokuseret på at finansiere højrisikoforskning i tidlige stadier for at udvikle det videnskabelige grundlag for transformative teknologier.
2. EIC Transition – Støtte til projekter inden for validering af teknologier og udarbejdelse af forretningsplaner for markedsberedskab.
3. EIC Accelerator – Hjælpe startups, SMV'er og små mellemstore virksomheder med at bringe innovationer på markedet, især dem, der kræver opskaleringsstøtte.
4. EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Opskalering – Prioritering af opskaleringsmidler til digitale, rene, ressourceeffektive og bioteknologiske innovationer, der er afgørende for europæiske strategiske mål.

Hver ordning giver økonomisk støtte parret med ikke-finansielle tjenester såsom coaching, mentoring og netværk, der hjælper prismodtagere med at skalere op og navigere i innovationslandskabet med succes.

Nøglefunktioner ved EIC-support

EIC tilbyder en kombination af direkte økonomisk støtte og supplerende Business Acceleration Services, der strækker sig ud over blot finansiering. Denne tilgang er designet til at hjælpe modtagere:

• Adgang til coaching og mentorskab – Modtagere modtager skræddersyet vejledning fra brancheeksperter til at forfine forretningsstrategier, fremskynde udvikling og forberede sig på markedsadgang.
• Deltag i proaktiv projektledelse – EIC-programledere er aktivt involveret i at føre tilsyn med finansierede projekter, sætte milepæle og stille ressourcer til rådighed for at sikre udviklingen af højpotentielle innovationer.
• Fremme samarbejdsporteføljer – Støttemodtagere er grupperet i tematiske eller udfordringsbaserede porteføljer, hvilket letter videndeling, reguleringsvejledning og videreudvikling på tværs af lignende innovationsområder.

Udsigter for 2026 og fremtidige år

Når man ser fremad, forventer EIC kontinuitet i sine vigtigste finansieringsindkaldelser, mens den undersøger forbedringer baseret på 2025-programmets resultater. Indsigt opnået gennem EIC-programledere, politikskift og midtvejsevalueringen af Horizon Europe vil informere justeringer med et særligt fokus på at forfine STEP Scale-Up-piloten og tilpasse udfordringerne til de nye EU-politiske prioriteter.

Det Introduktion afsnit etablerer således EIC's overordnede mål og danner grundlag for at forstå, hvordan arbejdsprogrammets forskellige komponenter arbejder sammen for at fremme Europas innovationsøkosystem strategisk.

2. EIC Pathfinder

Det EIC Pathfinder afsnit i European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025 fokuserer på at fremme højrisiko forskning i tidlige stadier, der har potentialet til at understøtte banebrydende teknologier. Gennem to hovedfinansieringsstrømme—EIC Pathfinder Åben og EIC Pathfinder udfordringer— Pathfinder-programmet er rettet mod visionære projekter, der har til formål at forstyrre eksisterende industrier eller skabe helt nye områder. Dette initiativ er dedikeret til at fremme radikale innovationer gennem tværfagligt samarbejde, der understøtter nye teknologier, der har transformativt potentiale, men som kræver videnskabelige fremskridt for at nå gennemførlighed.

2.1 EIC Pathfinder Åben

EIC Pathfinder Åben er en bred finansieringsindkaldelse, der støtter transformative projekter på tværs af ethvert område inden for videnskab, teknologi eller anvendelse uden forudindstillede tematiske begrænsninger. Det tilskynder forskere og innovatører til at foreslå højrisikoprojekter med høj belønning, der forfølger nye, videnskabsdrevne ideer med potentiale til at føre til nye markeder eller adressere kritiske samfundsmæssige udfordringer.

• Nøglemål:
  • Fremme ambitiøse visioner for radikalt nye teknologier.
  • Støtte tidlig udvikling (teknologisk parathed niveau 1 til 4).
  • Fremme tværfaglige forskerhold, der omfatter en blanding af videnskabelig og teknologisk ekspertise.
• Finansieringsomfang:
  • Tilskud på op til € 3 millioner pr. projekt.
  • Fokuseret på at validere videnskabelige koncepter, opnå proof-of-concept og lægge grundlaget for fremtidige teknologiske fremskridt.
  • Understøtter de tidlige eksperimenter og udforskning, der er nødvendige for højpotentielle teknologiske gennembrud.
• Berettigelse:
  • Åben for forskningssamarbejdskonsortier, hver med mindst tre juridiske enheder fra tre forskellige lande, herunder mindst én EU-medlemsstat.
  • Forskningsorganisationer, universiteter, SMV'er og startups er berettiget til at deltage.
• Forventede resultater:
  • Principbevis for den foreslåede teknologi, der viser dens gennemførlighed og det videnskabelige grundlag for potentiel videreudvikling.
  • Projekter bør ideelt set resultere i videnskabelige publikationer på topniveau, formidling af resultater med åben adgang og tilstrækkelig beskyttelse af intellektuel ejendomsret.

2.2 EIC Pathfinder udfordringer

Det EIC Pathfinder udfordringer Finansieringsstrømmen er rettet mod specifikke områder af strategisk interesse, med fokus på udfordringer med potentiale til at levere innovationer med stor effekt, der adresserer samfundsmæssige behov eller kritiske industrisektorer. Hver udfordring under denne ordning overvåges af en dedikeret EIC-programleder, som koordinerer porteføljeaktiviteter, identificerer fælles mål og sikrer, at projekter bevæger sig mod at nå fælles mål.

Det 2025 EIC Pathfinder udfordringer omfatte:

1. Bioteknologi til klimabestandige afgrøder og plantebaseret biofremstilling:
   • Støtter projekter, der bruger bioteknologi til at udvikle modstandsdygtige afgrødestammer eller plantebaserede løsninger til bæredygtig biofremstilling.
   • Sigter mod at imødegå klimaændringernes indvirkning på landbruget og reducere afhængigheden af syntetiske og ressourcekrævende produktionsmetoder.
2. Generativ-AI-baserede midler til medicinsk diagnose og kræftbehandling:
   • Søger innovative AI-drevne værktøjer og midler, der kan hjælpe med at diagnosticere og behandle kræft med høj nøjagtighed og effektivitet.
   • Fokuserer på udviklingen af generative AI-teknologier, der kan forbedre medicinsk diagnostik og personalisere kræftbehandlingsveje.
3. Autonome robotkollektiver til dynamiske byggemiljøer:
   • Understøtter udviklingen af robotkollektiver, der kan arbejde selvstændigt i ustrukturerede byggemiljøer.
   • Sigter mod at øge produktiviteten og sikkerheden i byggeriet gennem kollaborativ robotteknologi, der er i stand til at tilpasse sig dynamiske forhold.
4. Waste-to-Value-enheder til cirkulær produktion af vedvarende brændstoffer, kemikalier og materialer:
   • Finansierer projekter, der udforsker teknologier til at omdanne affald til vedvarende brændstoffer og andre værdifulde ressourcer.
   • Fokuserer på at fremme principper for cirkulær økonomi, især for vedvarende energi og bæredygtig kemisk produktion.

• Finansieringsomfang:
  • Tilskud på op til 4 mio. EUR pr. projekt, med højere beløb muligt, hvis det er begrundet i arbejdets omfang.
  • Det samlede vejledende budget for Pathfinder Challenges er €120 millioner, fordelt omtrent ligeligt på de fire tematiske områder.
• Berettigelse:
  • Åben for både enkeltansøgere og konsortier, med mindre konsortier (mindst to juridiske enheder), der er berettiget til deltagelse.
  • Vægt på tværfagligt samarbejde for at opnå de videnskabelige og teknologiske gennembrud, der kræves af hver udfordring.
• Forventede resultater:
  • Udvikling af nye løsninger tilpasset hver udfordrings mål, understøttet af videnskabelig validering og indledende proof of concept.
  • Projekter forventes at resultere i videnskabelige publikationer med åben adgang og IP-beskyttelse for at fremme fremtidig udvikling og kommercialisering.

Yderligere support og ressourcer til EIC Pathfinder-projekter

EIC Pathfinder-projekter nyder godt af en række støttetjenester ud over finansiering, der har til formål at fremskynde projektfremskridt og øge chancerne for fremtidig kommercialisering:

• Business Acceleration Services – Prismodtagere får adgang til skræddersyet coaching, mentoring og netværksmuligheder for at hjælpe med at forfine deres forretningsmodeller og markedsstrategier.
• Booster-tilskud – Pathfinder-projekter er berettiget til yderligere finansiering (op til €50.000) for at udforske kommercialiseringsveje eller samarbejde med andre EIC-finansierede initiativer.
• Fast-Track og overgangsmuligheder – Succesfulde Pathfinder-projekter kan ansøge om opfølgende EIC Transition- eller Accelerator-finansiering, ofte med en fremskyndet evalueringsproces for at hjælpe med at fremme lovende teknologier til markedsparathed.

Det EIC Pathfinder Programmet repræsenterer en strategisk komponent i EIC's 2025-dagsorden, der kanaliserer ressourcer og støtte mod højrisikoprojekter, som har potentialet til at definere fremtiden for Europas innovationslandskab.

3. EIC Transition

Det EIC Transition afsnit af European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025 er designet til at bygge bro mellem forskning i tidlige stadier og markedsklare innovationer. Dette program understøtter yderligere udvikling, validering og kommercialisering af lovende teknologier, der oprindeligt blev støttet under EIC Pathfinder, FET (Future and Emerging Technologies) Open og andre relaterede forskningsinitiativer. EIC Transition fokuserer på projekter, der har opnået videnskabelige gennembrud, men som kræver yderligere støtte for at demonstrere deres praktiske anvendelse og markedslevedygtighed.

Det EIC Transition Programmet er struktureret til at hjælpe enkeltansøgere eller små konsortier med at forfine teknologiske innovationer, udvikle markedsstrategier og skabe robuste forretningsplaner, der kan tiltrække yderligere finansiering eller investeringer. Gennem denne støtte sigter EIC mod at fremme europæisk konkurrenceevne på innovationsområder med stor indflydelse.

Nøglemål for EIC Transition

Det EIC Transition programmet er fokuseret på at validere nye teknologier i relevante miljøer og forberede dem til kommerciel anvendelse. Dens primære mål er at:

1. Valider teknologiens gennemførlighed – Demonstrer, at teknologien kan fungere effektivt i den virkelige verden, applikationsspecifikke indstillinger, ved at avancere den fra Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3-4 til TRL 5-6.
2. Udvikle forretnings- og markedsberedskab – Etabler en omfattende forretningsmodel og markedsadgangsplan, der tager højde for produktudvikling, kundebehov, regulatoriske krav og andre kommercielle faktorer.
3. Accelerer Time-to-Market – Gør det muligt for teknologier at nå markedsmodenhed hurtigere ved at understøtte alle nødvendige trin, herunder prototyping, markedsanalyse og dannelsen af vigtige partnerskaber.

Finansieringsomfang

• Tilskud: Projekter er berettiget til tilskud på op til €2,5 millioner, som dækker omkostninger i forbindelse med teknologisk validering, prototypeudvikling, markedsanalyse og foreløbig forretningsplanlægning.
• Vejledende budget: For 2025 har EIC Transition-programmet et vejledende budget på €98 millioner, der sigter mod at finansiere projekter, der viser potentialet til at omdanne deres forskningsresultater til levedygtige produkter, tjenester eller industrielle applikationer.

Kvalifikations- og ansøgningskrav

For at kvalificere sig til EIC Transition-finansiering skal ansøgere opfylde specifikke berettigelseskriterier og tilpasse deres forslag til programmets mål:

1. Berettigelseskriterier:
   • Enlige ansøgere: Åben for individuelle enheder, herunder SMV'er, startups, spin-offs, forskningsorganisationer og universiteter.
   • Små konsortier: Projekter kan også gennemføres af konsortier af to til fem juridiske enheder, som kan komme fra samme eller forskellige medlemsstater eller associerede lande.
2. Projektkrav:
   • Teknologisk parathed: Projekter bør starte ved TRL 3-4 og sigte mod at opnå TRL 5-6 ved udgangen af finansieringsperioden.
   • Markedsorientering: Forslagene bør omfatte en klar plan for markedsvalidering og kundeidentifikation samt strategier til at overvinde regulatoriske og certificeringsmæssige udfordringer.
   • Link til tidligere finansiering: EIC Transition er tilgængelig for projekter, der tidligere har modtaget støtte fra EIC Pathfinder, FET Open eller relaterede Horizon 2020-initiativer. Dette krav sikrer, at støttede projekter har et grundlag af videnskabeligt eller teknologisk proof of concept, som kan videreudvikles.

Forventede resultater

Projekter finansieret af EIC Transition forventes at levere:

1. Validerede prototyper: Teknologisk validering i relevante miljøer, der viser, at prototypen er klar til videreudvikling mod markedsimplementering.
2. Forretnings- og kommercialiseringsplaner: En detaljeret forretningsstrategi, markedsadgangsplan og strategi for forvaltning af intellektuel ejendom. Dette omfatter identifikation af potentielle kunder, partnere og investorer samt en køreplan for opskalering og markedsudvidelse.
3. Veje til yderligere finansiering: Projekter bør være godt positioneret til efterfølgende finansierings- eller investeringsrunder, uanset om det er gennem EIC Accelerator, private investorer eller andre offentlige finansieringskilder.

Yderligere supporttjenester til EIC Transition-projekter

Ud over økonomiske tilskud får EIC Transition-projekter adgang til en række støttetjenester, der har til formål at maksimere deres markedsberedskab:

• Business Acceleration Services (BAS): Deltagerne har adgang til skræddersyet coaching, mentoring og netværksmuligheder, der hjælper dem med at finpudse deres forretningsstrategier og skabe forbindelse til potentielle partnere, kunder og investorer.
• Fast-Track til EIC Accelerator: Projekter, der opnår betydelige fremskridt og demonstrerer et stærkt kommercielt potentiale, kan være berettiget til at ansøge direkte om EIC Accelerator-finansiering ved hjælp af en strømlinet fast-track-proces.
• Booster-tilskud: Projekter kan være berettiget til yderligere booster-finansiering (op til 50.000 €) for at løse specifikke udfordringer, såsom yderligere markedstest, lovgivningsoverholdelse eller yderligere IP-beskyttelse.

Evaluerings- og udvælgelsesproces

EIC Transition-forslag evalueres baseret på en skræddersyet vurderingsproces designet til at identificere højpotentielle teknologier og innovationer. Evalueringsprocessen omfatter:

1. Fjernevaluering: Forslag bliver indledningsvis gennemgået og bedømt af uafhængige eksperter i henhold til kriterier som teknisk ekspertise, effektpotentiale og projektgennemførlighed.
2. Juryinterview: Toprangerede ansøgere inviteres til at deltage i et juryinterview, hvor de præsenterer deres projekts tekniske og markedsmæssige parathed, strategiske tilpasning til EIC-mål og potentiale for kommercialisering. Beslutninger på dette trin træffes på en binær "GO/NO GO"-basis.
3. Seal of Excellence: Forslag med høje resultater, der ikke kan finansieres på grund af budgetbegrænsninger, kan modtage et Seal of Excellence. Denne pris angiver, at projektet opfylder EIC's standarder og kan hjælpe det med at sikre alternativ finansiering.

EIC Transition i det europæiske innovationslandskab

EIC Transition-programmet spiller en afgørende rolle inden for den bredere europæiske innovationsramme ved at støtte projekter, der allerede har opnået videnskabelige gennembrud, men som har brug for målrettede ressourcer for at nå kommerciel levedygtighed. Den danner en vigtig bro i innovationspipelinen og sikrer, at forskning med højt potentiale ikke forbliver underudviklet på grund af huller i finansiering eller markedsforberedelse. Gennem dette program søger EIC at forbedre Europas konkurrenceevne ved at fremme et robust økosystem af dybteknologiske virksomheder, der er klar til at skalere, konkurrere og løse presserende globale udfordringer.

Sammenfattende, EIC Transition giver projekter mulighed for at avancere fra indledende proof-of-concept til applikationsklare teknologier, hvilket giver en vej til virkningsfulde innovationer for at nå markeder og levere samfundsmæssige og økonomiske fordele i hele Europa.

4. EIC Accelerator

Det EIC Accelerator program, som beskrevet i European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025, er designet til at støtte små og mellemstore virksomheder (SMV'er), startups og små midcap-virksomheder med højtydende innovationer med høj risiko, der er klar til skalering. Acceleratoren er rettet mod avancerede projekter, der er tæt på markedsadgang eller ekspansion, og giver en kombination af tilskud og egenkapitalfinansiering for at hjælpe disse virksomheder med at bringe deres innovationer på markedet, skalere op og opnå kommerciel succes.

EIC Accelerator fokuserer på både "åbne" opkald, der tillader projekter på tværs af enhver sektor, og tematiske "udfordringer", som prioriterer specifikke strategiske områder, der er relevante for EU, såsom grønne og digitale teknologier, bioteknologi og ruminnovationer.

Nøglemål for EIC Accelerator

Det EIC Accelerator har til formål at yde finansiering og støtte til innovative SMV'er og nystartede virksomheder med et højt vækstpotentiale ved at adressere nøglemål som:

1. Understøttelse af højrisikoinnovationer – At bistå virksomheder med banebrydende teknologier, der står over for høj risiko og vil kæmpe for at sikre private investeringer alene.
2. Accelererer Time-to-Market – Muliggør hurtig sporing af innovationer fra udvikling til markedsintroduktion, og hjælper virksomheder med at etablere et konkurrencedygtigt fodfæste.
3. Styrkelse af europæisk konkurrenceevne – At styrke Europas position som førende inden for deep-tech og strategiske teknologisektorer, hvilket i sidste ende driver økonomisk vækst og teknologisk suverænitet.

Finansieringsomfang

EIC Accelerator tilbyder en unik blended finance-model, der består af to primære komponenter:

1. Tilskudskomponent:
   • Giver finansiering op til €2,5 millioner pr. projekt for at støtte innovationsaktiviteter, der når teknologisk parathedsniveau (TRL) 6 til 8.
   • Designet til at dække støtteberettigede omkostninger i forbindelse med produktudvikling, overholdelse af lovgivning og validering.
2. Investeringskomponent:
   • Tilbyder aktieinvesteringer mellem €0,5 millioner og €10 millioner til opskalering af aktiviteter, herunder markedsimplementering og kommercialisering.
   • For 2025 introducerede EIC også en ny TRIN Skaler op pilotindkaldelse (detaljeret nedenfor) under investeringskomponenten, der støtter større investeringer (10-30 mio. EUR) inden for kritiske teknologiområder.
3. Kun tilskud og kun investering:
   • Der er kun tilskud til virksomheder, der har brug for støtte til innovationsaktiviteter op til TRL 8.
   • Investeringsfinansiering tilbydes til virksomheder, der har nået TRL 9 og søger at opskalere uden at kræve yderligere bevillingsstøtte.

EIC Accelerator Open vs. EIC Accelerator udfordringer

EIC Accelerator giver to forskellige typer opkald for at imødekomme en bred vifte af innovationer og sektorer:

1. EIC Accelerator Åben:
   • Tilgængelig for projekter fra enhver sektor eller branche uden foruddefinerede tematiske begrænsninger.
   • Fokuserer på banebrydende teknologier og højrisikoinnovationer, der fremmer forskellige applikationer på tværs af teknologiområder.
2. EIC Accelerator udfordringer:
   • Målretter mod specifikke strategiske områder og teknologier i overensstemmelse med EU's prioriteter. 2025-udfordringerne omfatter:
     • Avanceret materialeudvikling: Understøtter accelerationen af avancerede materialer til industriel skalering.
     • Lavemissionsfødevare- og foderbioteknologi: Fokus på bioteknologiske innovationer, der reducerer emissioner i fødevare- og foderproduktion.
     • GenAI4EU: Opbygning af europæisk lederskab inden for generativ kunstig intelligens (AI) gennem højpotentiale AI-drevne innovationer.
     • Ruminfrastruktur og robotteknologi: Fremme af rumservice og operationelle teknologier til modstandsdygtige EU-rumkapaciteter.
     • Fremtidens mobilitet: Tilskyndelse til banebrydende innovationer inden for mobilitet, herunder autonome, elektriske og bæredygtige transportløsninger.

hver EIC Accelerator udfordringer indkaldelsen omfatter målrettede mål, der tilskynder innovatører til at imødekomme presserende samfundsmæssige og teknologiske behov inden for disse prioriterede sektorer.

Kvalifikations- og ansøgningskrav

Berettigelse til EIC Accelerator er begrænset til højrisiko, højpotentielle innovatører, med specifikke kriterier for ansøgere:

1. Berettigelseskriterier:
   • Åben for enlige ansøgere, specifikt startups og SMV'er (inklusive spin-offs), samt enkeltpersoner, der har til hensigt at oprette en startup eller SMV.
   • Små mid-caps (op til 499 ansatte) kan søge, men kun for investeringsdelen i begrænsede tilfælde.
2. Ansøgningsproces:
   • Korte ansøgninger: Potentielle ansøgere kan til enhver tid indsende en kort ansøgning bestående af en 5-siders beskrivelse, et pitch deck og en video.
   • Fuld applikationer: Efter en positiv vurdering af den korte ansøgning opfordres ansøgere til at indsende en fuldstændig ansøgning. Fuld ansøgning har to afleveringsfrister i 2025: 12. marts og 1. oktober.

Forventede resultater

Projekter finansieret under EIC Accelerator forventes at producere målbare resultater, der fremmer virksomhedens position på markedet, herunder:

1. Markedsklare produkter: Validering og skalering af innovative produkter, processer eller tjenester, der har vist et betydeligt markedspotentiale.
2. Øgede investerings- og skaleringsmuligheder: Målet er at tiltrække private investeringer, hvilket letter skaleringen og markedspenetrationen af støttede virksomheder.
3. Styrket IP-positionering: IP-styrings- og beskyttelsesstrategier for at sikre konkurrencefordele og sikre kommercialiseringspotentiale.

Yderligere supporttjenester til EIC Accelerator-prismodtagere

Ud over økonomisk støtte tilbyder EIC Accelerator en omfattende suite af Business Acceleration Services (BAS), designet til at optimere væksten og markedsberedskabet for prismodtagere:

• Coaching og Mentoring: Adgang til erfarne coaches med dyb branchekendskab, som giver vejledning om forretningsstrategi, markedsadgang og skalering.
• Netværk og Matchmaking: Muligheder for at forbinde med investorer, virksomheder og innovationspartnere i hele Europa gennem EIC's omfattende netværk.
• International Outreach og Global Ekspansion: Støtte til prismodtagere, der søger at ekspandere globalt, herunder deltagelse i messer og Global Soft-Landing Programme, som giver ressourcer til international markedsadgang.

Evaluerings- og udvælgelsesproces

Evalueringsprocessen for EIC Accelerator er streng og prioriterer projekter med det stærkeste potentiale for transformativ effekt:

1. Indledende fjernevaluering: Korte ansøgninger fjernbedømmes af eksterne eksperter. Udvalgte ansøgere opfordres derefter til at indsende en fuldstændig ansøgning.
2. Juryinterviews: Fuld ansøgninger gennemgår en juryinterviewproces, hvor ekspertevaluatorer, herunder investorer og branchefolk, vurderer projektets gennemførlighed, markedspotentiale og strategiske tilpasning til EIC's mål.
3. Go/No-Go-beslutning: Juryen træffer en endelig binær beslutning ("GO/NO GO") baseret på interviewets præstation, hvilket fører til enten finansieringsgodkendelse eller afvisning.
4. Seal of Excellence: Forslag af høj kvalitet, der opfylder evalueringskriterierne, men som ikke kan finansieres på grund af budgetbegrænsninger, modtager et Seal of Excellence, som kan hjælpe ansøgere med at sikre alternativ finansiering.

EIC Accelerator STEP Scale Up Call

Det EIC Accelerator TRIN Skaler op er et pilotinitiativ under EIC Accelerator's investeringskomponent, indført for at understøtte skalering af kritiske teknologisektorer med yderligere investeringsrunder. Denne indkaldelse retter sig specifikt mod digitale, rene, ressourceeffektive og bioteknologiske innovationer, der er afgørende for Europas strategiske mål, og tilbyder større investeringsbeløb på 10-30 millioner euro. STEP Scale Up-opkaldet er tilgængeligt på en løbende ansøgningsbasis, hvilket giver kvalificerede virksomheder fleksible muligheder for at sikre betydelig finansiering og støtte til markedsudvidelse.

EIC Accelerator i det europæiske innovationsøkosystem

Det EIC Accelerator Programmet er en hjørnesten i Den Europæiske Unions indsats for at støtte banebrydende innovationer og deep-tech virksomheder, der er klar til betydelig vækst. Ved at give målrettet finansiering, mentorskab og adgang til markeder fremmer EIC Accelerator et miljø, hvor europæiske SMV'er og startups kan konkurrere globalt og løse presserende udfordringer inden for sektorer som kunstig intelligens, ren teknologi, bioteknologi og rumfart.

Gennem dette program sigter EIC på at skabe en innovationsdrevet økonomi, der tiltrækker private investeringer, øger jobskabelsen og øger EU's teknologiske suverænitet i kritiske industrier. De EIC Accelerator is a vital link in the EU’s broader innovation ecosystem, empowering companies to scale their solutions and drive long-term impact across Europe.

5. EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call

Det EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call is a new pilot initiative introduced in the European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025. This call aims to provide substantial funding to high-potential European startups, SMEs, and small mid-cap companies developing strategic technologies that are critical to Europe’s competitiveness, technological sovereignty, and economic resilience. With a focus on scaling up companies that are already making strides in areas of strategic importance, the STEP Scale Up Call is part of the EIC’s broader commitment to ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of deep-tech and innovation.

This call aligns with the EU’s priorities to enhance digital autonomy, foster clean and resource-efficient solutions, and advance biotech applications, enabling Europe to compete globally in essential high-tech sectors.

Key Objectives of the STEP Scale Up Call

The STEP Scale Up Call is specifically designed to support companies that are advancing technologies in critical fields, with the aim of:

1. Driving European Technological Sovereignty – Supporting high-impact, deep-tech innovations that ensure Europe remains technologically autonomous in vital sectors.
2. Scaling Strategic Innovations – Providing larger investments to help companies scale their technologies and reach new markets faster.
3. Boosting Competitiveness in Strategic Sectors – Enabling Europe to compete globally in areas such as digital technologies, green technologies, and biotech by helping homegrown companies become global leaders.

Priority Areas and Targeted Technologies

The STEP Scale Up Call focuses on strategic sectors where Europe needs to strengthen its technological capabilities. The priority areas include:

1. Digital Technologies:
   • Technologies that contribute to Europe’s digital autonomy, such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data processing, and advanced semiconductors.
   • Supports companies advancing critical digital infrastructure, especially those that align with the EU’s priorities, including the Chips Act and Digital Strategy.
2. Clean and Resource-Efficient Technologies:
   • Innovations in renewable energy, energy storage, circular economy, and sustainable production.
   • Emphasis on net-zero technologies, resource-efficient processes, and advancements that contribute to environmental sustainability.
3. Biotechnologies:
   • Focus on biotech applications that have significant societal and industrial benefits, such as sustainable food production, biomanufacturing, and healthcare advancements.
   • Includes projects that align with EU initiatives on food security, healthcare autonomy, and bio-based economies.

Finansieringsomfang

The STEP Scale Up Call provides significant funding to help companies scale their operations and technologies, particularly in the form of equity investments:

1. Investeringskomponent:
   • STEP offers equity investments ranging from €10 million to €30 million per company, allowing substantial financial support for scaling activities.
   • This large-scale investment is designed to address funding gaps for companies advancing strategic technologies, enabling them to compete at a global level.
2. Budget:
   • The indicative budget for the STEP Scale Up Call is €300 million for 2025, distributed across projects that meet the priority areas and have strong market potential.
3. Eligible Activities:
   • STEP investments can be used for scaling up production, expanding market reach, entering new geographies, and completing critical technological advancements.
   • Companies can also use funding for activities that ensure compliance with regulatory standards, develop commercialization strategies, and secure intellectual property rights.

Kvalifikations- og ansøgningskrav

The STEP Scale Up Call is open to highly promising companies and their investors who are focused on scaling up strategic technologies:

1. Eligible Applicants:
   • Single applicants from eligible categories, including startups, SMEs, og small mid-cap companies (up to 499 employees).
   • Investors representing eligible companies can also apply on behalf of their portfolio companies.
2. Berettigelseskriterier:
   • Applicants should be developing technologies in the areas of digital, clean, or biotechnology that are strategically important to Europe.
   • Companies must demonstrate that they are ready to scale, with clear market strategies and a strong technical foundation.
3. Ansøgningsproces:
   • Continuous Submission: Unlike other EIC calls with fixed deadlines, the STEP Scale Up Call accepts applications on a rolling basis, allowing companies to apply whenever they are ready.
   • Rettidig omhu: After submission, companies undergo a due diligence process, where evaluators assess the technical feasibility, market potential, and strategic alignment of the project with EU priorities.

Forventede resultater

The STEP Scale Up Call is intended to produce tangible outcomes that contribute to Europe’s strategic independence and technological leadership:

1. Expanded Market Presence: Companies are expected to leverage STEP funding to increase their market share, expand internationally, and accelerate time-to-market for strategic innovations.
2. Strengthened Technological Capabilities: The goal is to enhance Europe’s presence in critical technology areas, positioning funded companies as industry leaders and reducing reliance on non-European technologies.
3. Increased Private Investment: STEP funding is designed to attract additional private investments, helping companies secure future rounds of funding and scale sustainably.

Additional Support Services

In addition to the significant funding available, companies selected for the STEP Scale Up Call benefit from the EIC’s extensive Business Acceleration Services (BAS), which provide:

• Coaching og Mentoring: Companies gain access to expert guidance on market expansion, regulatory compliance, and scaling strategies from experienced business coaches.
• Investor Outreach and Networking: Opportunities to connect with private investors, venture capitalists, and corporate partners through EIC-organized events, workshops, and networking sessions.
• Global Expansion Support: Through the EIC’s Global Soft-Landing Programme, STEP awardees receive resources for entering international markets, attending trade fairs, and establishing operations in new regions.

Evaluerings- og udvælgelsesproces

The evaluation and selection process for the STEP Scale Up Call is tailored to identify high-impact, strategic projects:

1. Initial Screening and Due Diligence: Applications undergo rigorous due diligence to assess their market potential, technological strength, and alignment with EU strategic priorities.
2. Investment Safeguards: Given the critical nature of technologies involved, the EIC Fund may implement economic security safeguards to ensure that investments align with the EU’s strategic interests and do not expose critical technologies to non-European control.
3. Flexible Review Timeline: Since applications are submitted continuously, the review and decision-making process is adapted to allow timely support for scaling opportunities as they arise.

Economic Security and Strategic Safeguards

In light of the strategic importance of the technologies supported under the STEP Scale Up Call, the EIC includes specific measures to protect Europe’s economic security:

• Eligibility Restrictions: To safeguard EU interests, companies that are directly or indirectly controlled by non-eligible third countries may face participation restrictions, especially in areas related to AI, quantum technologies, and semiconductors.
• IP Protection and Transfer Controls: Funded companies are required to notify the EIC in cases where intellectual property generated by the project might be transferred to non-associated third countries.

STEP Scale Up in the European Innovation Ecosystem

Det STEP Scale Up Call serves as a cornerstone of the EU’s vision for a technology-driven, strategically autonomous Europe. By supporting companies that are advancing critical technologies, the EIC aims to create a robust foundation for Europe’s competitiveness and leadership in the global innovation landscape. The STEP Scale Up initiative empowers companies to accelerate their growth, secure essential technologies within Europe, and drive job creation and economic resilience across the EU.

In summary, the EIC’s STEP Scale Up Call is a transformative funding opportunity that aligns financial support with the EU’s long-term technological ambitions, fostering a future where Europe leads in strategic technologies that are vital to its security, economy, and sustainability.

6. Business Acceleration Services (BAS)

Det Business Acceleration Services (BAS), as outlined in the European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025, provide a comprehensive suite of support tools and services aimed at helping EIC-funded companies accelerate their growth, refine their business models, and expand their market presence. These services complement the financial support provided by the EIC, offering awardees access to a network of expert coaches, investors, corporate partners, and market-entry programs, all designed to help them overcome barriers to scaling and establish themselves as leaders in their respective industries.

The BAS programme is available to beneficiaries across the EIC’s funding schemes—Pathfinder, Transition, and Accelerator—enabling them to maximize their innovations’ market potential and strategic impact.

Key Objectives of Business Acceleration Services

The BAS programme is designed to deliver value across several key objectives:

1. Market Readiness and Growth – Helping innovators build solid business models, accelerate time-to-market, and grow their companies efficiently.
2. Access to Expertise and Mentorship – Providing EIC awardees with specialized support from industry experts and business coaches.
3. Connecting with Investors and Corporate Partners – Facilitating networking and matchmaking opportunities with investors, corporates, and other ecosystem partners.
4. Supporting Global Expansion – Enabling companies to access resources and guidance to enter new international markets.

Key Components of Business Acceleration Services

The BAS programme comprises several tailored services designed to support EIC-funded companies at various stages of their growth journey:

1. EIC Business Coaches:
   • The EIC offers awardees access to a pool of experienced business coaches who provide tailored guidance on strategic planning, scaling, and market entry.
   • Coaches are matched to companies based on their needs, offering expert insights on product-market fit, customer acquisition, investment strategies, and operational scaling.
   • Companies may engage with multiple coaches as their needs evolve, ensuring that they receive relevant advice as they progress.
2. EIC Community and Women Leadership Program:
   • The EIC Community platform connects awardees with fellow innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem players, allowing for knowledge exchange and potential collaborations.
   • The Women Leadership Programme specifically supports women-led companies, offering mentorship and networking opportunities tailored to the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in deep-tech fields.
   • By fostering inclusivity and gender diversity, the BAS programme aims to address underrepresentation in the innovation sector.
3. Investors opsøgende aktiviteter:
   • EIC awardees gain access to a series of investor-focused events, workshops, and matchmaking opportunities to connect with venture capitalists, business angels, and corporate investors.
   • The EIC organizes regular investor matchmaking events, facilitating connections between EIC-funded companies and European and international investors interested in deep-tech, biotech, and digital technologies.
   • Through these engagements, awardees can secure additional private investment to support their growth and scaling activities.
4. Ecosystem Partnership Programme & Promotion of ESG Reporting:
   • The Ecosystem Partnership Programme connects EIC-funded companies with partners across the innovation ecosystem, including corporations, innovation agencies, incubators, accelerators, and clusters.
   • The EIC also emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) best practices, promoting responsible business practices and encouraging awardees to adopt ESG reporting standards to improve transparency and attract socially responsible investors.
   • This programme helps companies enhance their visibility, build credibility, and establish long-term partnerships that support sustainable growth.
5. Deltagelse i messer:
   • The EIC supports awardees in gaining visibility by facilitating their participation in international trade fairs and industry events.
   • Companies can showcase their products, network with industry leaders, and explore new market opportunities at prominent European and global trade shows.
   • By participating in these events, awardees can enhance brand recognition and connect with potential partners, customers, and distributors in key markets.
6. Globalt program for blød landing:
   • For companies ready to expand internationally, the Global Soft-Landing Programme provides resources and guidance to ease entry into foreign markets.
   • The programme includes support in areas such as market research, legal and regulatory requirements, cultural considerations, and local networking.
   • Through this initiative, EIC awardees receive assistance in establishing their operations, connecting with local partners, and navigating the challenges of cross-border expansion.

Additional Features of the BAS Programme

The BAS programme is designed with flexibility to cater to the evolving needs of EIC awardees, providing continued support as companies progress through different stages of growth:

• Customizable BAS Engagements: EIC awardees have the option to tailor their BAS package based on their unique requirements, choosing specific services such as targeted coaching sessions, specialized training, or sector-specific investor matchmaking.
• Proactive Portfolio Management: EIC Programme Managers actively engage with awardees to provide strategic advice, assess progress, and identify any additional BAS resources that may benefit the company.
• Access to External Experts: In addition to business coaches, awardees have access to a network of experts in IP management, regulatory affairs, technical due diligence, and other specialized fields, helping them navigate complex industry-specific challenges.

Eligibility and Access to BAS

The BAS programme is available to all EIC awardees across the Pathfinder, Transition, and Accelerator schemes. Companies are encouraged to engage with the BAS early in their projects to ensure they are well-positioned to benefit from the expertise, resources, and connections offered.

• No Additional Cost: BAS services are provided at no extra cost to awardees, with the EIC covering all expenses associated with coaching, mentorship, and event participation.
• Continuous Access: Companies retain access to BAS throughout their project lifecycle, allowing them to leverage services at different stages as needed.

Expected Outcomes of Business Acceleration Services

The BAS programme is intended to produce measurable outcomes that enhance the competitiveness and market readiness of EIC-funded companies:

1. Accelerated Market Entry and Growth: Through expert guidance and investor connections, companies can reduce time-to-market and establish a stronger market presence.
2. Increased Investment: By facilitating connections with venture capitalists and corporate partners, the BAS programme helps companies secure the additional funding needed to scale their operations.
3. Improved Operational Efficiency: With access to coaching and industry insights, companies can refine their business models, streamline operations, and position themselves for sustainable growth.
4. Enhanced Global Competitiveness: Companies that participate in trade fairs, the Global Soft-Landing Programme, and BAS networking events gain the resources and connections necessary to compete internationally.
5. Advancement of Inclusive Innovation: The Women Leadership Programme fosters diversity and inclusion within the innovation ecosystem, encouraging underrepresented groups to lead in high-tech and deep-tech industries.

BAS in the European Innovation Ecosystem

Det Business Acceleration Services programme is a critical pillar of the EIC’s vision to build a resilient, competitive, and inclusive innovation ecosystem within Europe. By offering targeted support and connections to strategic partners, the BAS enables EIC awardees to accelerate their growth, secure new funding, and successfully navigate the complexities of scaling innovative technologies.

Through BAS, the EIC not only strengthens individual companies but also enhances Europe’s overall capacity for innovation by creating a network of high-potential companies ready to compete globally and contribute to the EU’s strategic goals in sustainability, digital transformation, and technological sovereignty. The BAS programme thus plays a vital role in ensuring that Europe remains a global leader in high-impact, high-tech innovation.

7. EIC Prizes

Det EIC-priser, as described in the European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025, celebrate and support remarkable innovators and pioneering cities that contribute to Europe’s innovation ecosystem. These prizes aim to recognize exceptional achievements in advancing new technologies, promoting inclusivity in innovation, and fostering environments where transformative ideas can thrive. By acknowledging and rewarding trailblazers, the EIC seeks to inspire others, drive competition, and highlight successful models that can be replicated across Europe.

The EIC offers two main prizes in 2025: the Europæisk pris for kvindelige innovatører og European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital). Each prize has distinct objectives, eligibility criteria, and award categories designed to spotlight outstanding contributions to Europe’s innovation landscape.

7.1 The European Prize for Women Innovators

Det Europæisk pris for kvindelige innovatører recognizes the extraordinary achievements of women entrepreneurs who have successfully founded or led innovative companies in Europe. The prize aims to address gender disparity in innovation and inspire more women to become leaders in technology-driven fields.

Objectives of the Prize

1. Promoting Gender Equality in Innovation – Showcasing the contributions of women in STEM and entrepreneurship to encourage more women to participate in the innovation sector.
2. Recognizing Leadership and Impact – Highlighting the accomplishments of women whose companies have achieved measurable success in the market and created positive societal impact.
3. Inspiring Future Generations – Providing role models for young women and girls interested in careers in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Award Categories

The prize is awarded across three categories:

1. Women Innovators – For women of all ages who have founded or co-founded a successful and innovative company within the EU or a Horizon Europe-associated country.
2. Rising Innovators – Dedicated to women under the age of 35, who are in the early stages of their careers and have already demonstrated potential in innovation.
3. EIC Women Leadership Programme Award – This special award recognizes participants in the EIC’s Women Leadership Programme who have shown outstanding growth, leadership, and impact during their participation.

Prize Structure

Each year, the prize awards significant financial recognition to the winners:

• Women Innovators Category:
  • 1st Place: €100,000
  • 2nd Place: €70,000
  • 3rd Place: €50,000
• Rising Innovators Category:
  • 1st Place: €50,000
• EIC Women Leadership Programme Award: Award amount is determined annually, based on available budget and candidate achievements.

Berettigelseskriterier

• Applicants must be women who are founders, co-founders, or key decision-makers in their company.
• The company must be based in an EU Member State or a country associated with Horizon Europe.
• The innovation should be market-ready or have demonstrated significant progress toward commercialization.

Expected Impact

The European Prize for Women Innovators aims to:

1. Inspire Gender Diversity – Encourage more women to pursue careers in technology and entrepreneurship.
2. Create Role Models – Showcase successful women innovators as role models for future generations.
3. Strengthen the Innovation Ecosystem – Increase inclusivity and diversity within Europe’s innovation ecosystem.

7.2 The European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital)

Det European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital) recognize cities that create robust innovation ecosystems, foster collaboration between stakeholders, and use innovation to address societal challenges. By spotlighting cities that excel in creating supportive environments for innovation, the award highlights models that other cities can follow to build thriving ecosystems conducive to sustainable growth and digital transformation.

Objectives of the Prize

1. Encouraging Innovation at the City Level – Rewarding cities that integrate innovation into their policies and practices to address community challenges and improve quality of life.
2. Promoting Sustainable Growth – Recognizing urban innovations that contribute to sustainable development, environmental responsibility, and economic resilience.
3. Building Inclusive Innovation Ecosystems – Highlighting efforts to create innovation environments that include a diverse range of stakeholders, including citizens, local businesses, research institutions, and civic organizations.

Award Categories

The iCapital Awards are presented in two main categories:

1. European Capital of Innovation – Awarded to large cities with a strong track record of innovation-driven strategies and achievements.
2. European Rising Innovative City – Recognizes smaller cities or municipalities (with populations of 50,000 to 250,000) that are actively building their innovation ecosystems and demonstrating leadership in community-driven projects.

Prize Structure

• European Capital of Innovation:
  • Winner: €1,000,000
  • First Runner-Up: €100,000
  • Second Runner-Up: €100,000
• European Rising Innovative City:
  • Winner: €500,000
  • First Runner-Up: €50,000
  • Second Runner-Up: €50,000

Berettigelseskriterier

• Open to cities located in EU Member States or Horizon Europe-associated countries.
• Cities must demonstrate an established innovation ecosystem, impactful projects or policies, and engagement with local communities.
• The innovation activities should address specific societal challenges, improve urban sustainability, or enhance residents’ quality of life.

Expected Impact

The iCapital Awards aim to:

1. Highlight Best Practices in Urban Innovation – Showcasing cities that effectively use innovation to create social, economic, and environmental benefits.
2. Inspire Replication Across Europe – Providing successful models that other cities can adapt to foster innovation within their communities.
3. Strengthen Local Economies – Recognizing and rewarding cities that leverage innovation to enhance economic growth and resilience.

The Role of EIC Prizes in the European Innovation Ecosystem

Det EIC-priser play a vital role in the European Innovation Council’s broader mission to foster a competitive, inclusive, and resilient innovation ecosystem across Europe. By recognizing outstanding achievements in both individual and institutional categories, the EIC Prizes help create a culture that values innovation, inclusivity, and societal impact.

Through financial rewards, media visibility, and institutional support, these prizes aim to:

1. Inspire New Innovators – By showcasing the success of women and cities as leaders in innovation, the EIC Prizes encourage others to pursue similar paths.
2. Encourage Sustainable and Inclusive Growth – By focusing on inclusivity and sustainability, the prizes align with the EU’s priorities for green growth, digital transformation, and technological autonomy.
3. Create Role Models and Best Practice Examples – The winners of EIC Prizes serve as examples of excellence, offering inspiration and best practices for aspiring innovators and city officials throughout Europe.

In summary, the EIC Prizes amplify the impact of exceptional individuals and institutions that are leading the way in transforming Europe’s innovation landscape. Through the European Prize for Women Innovators and the iCapital Awards, the EIC celebrates achievements that contribute to Europe’s innovation-driven, inclusive future, positioning Europe as a global leader in the development of forward-thinking solutions for societal challenges.

8. Other Actions

Det Andre handlinger afsnit i European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025 includes a range of supporting initiatives and administrative activities designed to ensure the effective functioning, outreach, and continuous improvement of the EIC’s programs. These actions encompass operational support for the EIC Board, expert advice, communications and outreach activities, and various initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity, ethical conduct, and collaboration within the European innovation ecosystem.

Key Components of Other Actions

1. Honoraria and Expenses of the EIC Board
   • The EIC Board, comprising leading innovators and experts, provides strategic guidance and oversight for the EIC’s programs. To support the Board’s work, the Work Programme allocates funding to cover honoraria and expenses for Board members.
   • This funding ensures that the Board can conduct regular meetings, strategic planning sessions, and consultations, facilitating informed decision-making and effective program management.
2. External Expertise for Monitoring, Ethics, and Policy Advice
   • The EIC engages external experts to assist in monitoring projects, advising on ethics, and providing policy guidance, helping to ensure that EIC-funded activities meet high standards of quality and integrity.
   • These experts offer specialized knowledge in areas such as technology ethics, project monitoring, and regulatory compliance, enabling the EIC to address complex challenges in innovative fields.
   • Ethical oversight is particularly important for high-impact areas such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and energy, where regulatory and ethical considerations play a crucial role.
3. Communication, Outreach, and IT Systems Integration
   • To increase the visibility of EIC-funded projects and attract a diverse range of applicants, the EIC invests in communication and outreach activities. These include promotional campaigns, social media outreach, event participation, and partnerships with other EU programs.
   • The Work Programme also includes funding for IT systems integration, ensuring that the EIC’s digital infrastructure is efficient and accessible. Improved IT systems streamline application processing, project monitoring, and resource management, creating a more user-friendly experience for applicants and awardees.
   • Outreach and communication activities aim to highlight EIC’s impact, showcase success stories, and provide resources for potential applicants to learn about funding opportunities.
4. Danske og polske formandskabskonferencer
   • In collaboration with the EU Council Presidencies, the EIC will participate in two high-profile conferences organized by the Danish and Polish presidencies in 2025.
   • These conferences serve as platforms for discussing the future of innovation in Europe, sharing best practices, and aligning EIC activities with broader EU policy priorities. They also facilitate dialogue among policymakers, innovators, investors, and academic leaders.
5. Women TechEU Initiative
   • Det Women TechEU Initiative aims to support women-led startups in deep-tech fields by providing financial support, mentoring, and business acceleration resources. This initiative addresses the gender gap in the innovation sector, encouraging more women to participate as leaders in technology-driven industries.
   • Women TechEU offers funding to help women-led startups reach new markets and scale their operations, in addition to providing networking opportunities with investors and partners across Europe.
6. Expert Group on the EIC Plug-In Scheme
   • Det EIC Plug-In Scheme is designed to streamline the integration of EIC-funded projects with national and regional innovation programs, creating synergy across Europe’s innovation landscape.
   • An expert group will oversee the development and implementation of this scheme, working to simplify processes, identify best practices, and recommend policy changes to facilitate smoother collaboration between the EIC and other innovation funding bodies.
7. Marketplace
   • The EIC is developing a dedicated Marketplace as a platform for sharing and cross-fertilizing the results of EIC-funded projects, particularly those from the Pathfinder and Transition programs.
   • This platform is intended to foster collaboration, encourage the exchange of ideas, and stimulate potential partnerships among EIC beneficiaries, research institutions, and commercial partners.
   • By making project outcomes accessible, the Marketplace also supports the wider adoption of new technologies and helps accelerate the commercial and societal impact of EIC-funded research.
8. Fees for the European Investment Bank (EIB) for Investment Component Tasks
   • The EIC partners with the European Investment Bank (EIB) for tasks related to the investment component of the EIC Accelerator program. This partnership includes conducting due diligence, managing equity investments, and coordinating with private investors.
   • The Work Programme allocates funds to cover the fees for these tasks, ensuring the EIB’s involvement in selecting high-potential investments and managing the EIC’s equity portfolio effectively.
   • This collaboration helps de-risk investments, ensuring that EIC-backed companies receive sound financial advice and support as they scale their operations.

Expected Outcomes of Other Actions

Det Andre handlinger section supports the EIC’s broader mission by ensuring robust program governance, ethical standards, and effective communication. The anticipated outcomes include:

1. Improved Program Oversight and Strategic Guidance – The EIC Board, supported by external experts, provides essential oversight and strategic direction, helping the EIC refine its programs and maintain alignment with EU priorities.
2. Enhanced Ethical and Quality Standards – By incorporating expert advice on ethics and compliance, the EIC ensures that funded projects meet the highest standards of quality and integrity, particularly in high-impact areas like biotech and AI.
3. Increased Awareness and Engagement – Communication and outreach efforts make EIC programs accessible to a broader audience, attracting diverse applicants and raising awareness about the EIC’s impact across Europe.
4. Gender Inclusivity in Innovation – Initiatives like Women TechEU address gender disparities in the deep-tech sector, promoting inclusivity and encouraging women to lead in fields such as engineering, science, and technology.
5. Stronger Innovation Ecosystem and Collaboration – Through the Plug-In Scheme and Marketplace, the EIC fosters collaboration across Europe’s innovation landscape, enabling smoother integration of EIC projects with national programs and promoting cross-sector partnerships.

The Role of Other Actions in the EIC Framework

Det Andre handlinger section in the EIC Work Programme is essential for maintaining the EIC’s operational excellence, transparency, and inclusivity. By supporting program governance, ethical oversight, inclusivity, and outreach, these actions reinforce the EIC’s commitment to a sustainable and diverse innovation ecosystem. Furthermore, they ensure that EIC-funded projects are not only innovative but also ethically sound, strategically aligned, and well-supported to succeed in the European and global markets.

Sammenfattende, Andre handlinger encompass the support mechanisms that allow the EIC to operate effectively, maximize its impact, and foster a thriving, ethically responsible, and inclusive innovation environment across Europe.

9. Annexes

Det Bilag afsnit i European Innovation Council (EIC) arbejdsprogram 2025 provides essential supplementary information, guidelines, and specific provisions related to the EIC’s funding mechanisms, project eligibility, application processes, and operational procedures. These annexes ensure that applicants, awardees, and stakeholders fully understand the terms, requirements, and tools available within the EIC’s support structure. Covering everything from budget allocations to fast-track schemes, the annexes are a critical resource for understanding the finer details of the EIC Work Programme.

Key Annexes in the EIC Work Programme 2025

1. Annex 1: Estimated Indicative Budget
   • This annex outlines the EIC’s indicative budget for 2025, specifying the funding allocations for each of the EIC’s core programs, including Pathfinder, Transition, Accelerator, and STEP Scale Up.
   • The annex provides a breakdown of funding for each component, such as Open Calls and Challenge Calls within each program, ensuring transparency in budget distribution and helping potential applicants understand the level of competition for each funding stream.
   • The budget includes details on the specific financial limits for grants, investments, and prize amounts, aligning with the EIC’s strategic goals for high-risk, high-impact innovations.
2. Annex 2: General Conditions
   • Annex 2 specifies the general conditions for participating in the EIC’s funding programs, including eligibility criteria, legal requirements, and application guidelines.
   • This section includes information on the admissibility of applications, the composition requirements for consortia, and rules regarding the “Do No Significant Harm” principle, which aligns with EU sustainability goals.
   • Additional rules cover restrictions on applications involving non-EU-based entities, intellectual property rights, and ethics compliance, especially relevant for projects in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and space technologies.
3. Annex 3: Fast Track Scheme to Apply for the EIC Accelerator
   • The Fast Track Scheme allows successful projects from other EU programs, such as Horizon Europe, to apply for EIC Accelerator funding using an expedited process.
   • This annex provides details on the eligibility requirements, application process, and evaluation criteria for the fast-track pathway, enabling projects with prior EU support to quickly advance toward market-readiness.
   • The scheme is aimed at high-potential projects that have already demonstrated promising results and are ready for rapid scaling with additional EIC support.
4. Annex 4: Pilot Plug-In Scheme to Apply for the EIC Accelerator
   • The Pilot Plug-In Scheme facilitates access to EIC Accelerator funding for projects that have received funding from national or regional innovation programs but not directly from the EIC.
   • It outlines criteria for eligible projects, submission requirements, and evaluation processes for the Plug-In Scheme, providing an alternative route to access EIC support and integrate national innovations into the European innovation ecosystem.
   • This initiative aims to enhance collaboration between the EIC and regional funding bodies, fostering a more connected and efficient European innovation landscape.
5. Annex 5: Booster Grants for EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition Awardees
   • Booster Grants offer additional funding up to €50,000 for projects funded under the EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition programs, allowing awardees to undertake complementary activities to further develop their innovations.
   • Eligible activities for Booster Grants include exploratory research, market testing, regulatory compliance preparation, and additional proof-of-concept work.
   • This annex provides eligibility criteria, application processes, and intended uses for Booster Grants, which are designed to maximize the impact of Pathfinder and Transition projects by supporting the next stages of development.
6. Annex 6: Additional Provisions Concerning Intellectual Property for EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition
   • Annex 6 details intellectual property (IP) provisions specifically for projects funded under the EIC Pathfinder and Transition programs, covering guidelines for IP ownership, protection, and commercialization.
   • This annex emphasizes the importance of IP protection in deep-tech fields, encouraging awardees to secure patents, trademarks, or copyrights as appropriate, and defines the IP-sharing framework for collaborative projects.
   • Guidelines include the requirement for awardees to inform the EIC if IP generated through their projects is proposed for transfer to entities in non-associated third countries, aligning with the EU’s economic security and strategic autonomy goals.

Importance of the Annexes in the EIC Framework

Det Bilag section is integral to the EIC Work Programme as it provides detailed guidance that supports applicants and awardees in navigating the complexities of EU funding processes. By covering essential operational and regulatory details, the annexes:

1. Enhance Transparency – Detailed budgets and conditions clarify how EIC funds are allocated and managed, ensuring transparency and accountability in funding distribution.
2. Promote Inclusivity and Accessibility – The Fast Track and Plug-In Schemes broaden access to EIC funding, enabling more innovators from diverse backgrounds and regions to participate in European innovation.
3. Support Project Continuity and Impact – Booster Grants and IP provisions help ensure that EIC-funded projects are well-positioned to achieve lasting impact by enabling further development and protecting valuable research outputs.
4. Strengthen Economic Security – IP guidelines and compliance provisions safeguard Europe’s strategic technologies, fostering economic resilience and protecting EU innovations from foreign control.

In summary, the Bilag section of the EIC Work Programme 2025 serves as a comprehensive guide, helping innovators, researchers, and companies understand the requirements, processes, and resources available through EIC funding. These annexes are essential for ensuring that all participants are well-informed and prepared to comply with EIC policies, enabling a more effective and secure innovation ecosystem across Europe.

Om

Artiklerne fundet på Rasph.com afspejler Rasphs eller dets respektive forfatteres meninger og afspejler på ingen måde udtalelser fra Europa-Kommissionen (EC) eller European Innovation Council (EIC). Den leverede information har til formål at dele perspektiver, der er værdifulde og potentielt kan informere ansøgere om tilskudsfinansieringsordninger såsom EIC Accelerator, EIC Pathfinder, EIC Transition eller relaterede programmer såsom Innovate UK i Det Forenede Kongerige eller Small Business Innovation and Research grant (SBIR) i De Forenede Stater.

Artiklerne kan også være en nyttig ressource for andre konsulentvirksomheder i bevillingsområdet samt professionelle bevillingsskribenter, der er ansat som freelancere eller er en del af en Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SMV). EIC Accelerator er en del af Horizon Europe (2021-2027), som for nylig har erstattet det tidligere rammeprogram Horizon 2020.

Denne artikel er skrevet af ChatEIC. ChatEIC er en EIC Accelerator-assistent, der kan rådgive om skrivning af forslag, diskutere aktuelle tendenser og skabe indsigtsfulde artikler om en række forskellige emner. Artiklerne skrevet af ChatEIC kan indeholde unøjagtige eller forældede oplysninger.

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