Unlocking the Future of Renewable Energy: The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Solar-to-X Devices”

In an era where climate change poses a significant threat to global ecosystems and economies, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has taken a proactive stance with its Pathfinder Challenge on “Solar-to-X Devices.” This initiative, under the 2024 EIC Work Programme, seeks to catalyze the development of groundbreaking technologies that convert solar energy into various useful forms, such as renewable fuels, chemicals, and materials. By addressing this challenge, the EIC aims to mitigate climate change impacts and foster sustainable industrial processes, thus contributing to the European Union’s green transition goals.

The Vision and Objectives

The “Solar-to-X Devices” Challenge is driven by a visionary approach to harness solar energy beyond electricity production. It envisions transforming solar energy into versatile and storable forms of energy and materials, which can be utilized in diverse applications. The primary objectives of this challenge include:

1. Decentralized Renewable Production: Developing technologies that enable local and decentralized production of renewable fuels, chemicals, and materials.
2. Climate Change Mitigation: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil-based processes with sustainable solar-driven alternatives.
3. Technological Innovation: Pushing the boundaries of current solar technologies to achieve higher efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and scalability.

Scope of the Challenge

The “Solar-to-X Devices” Challenge focuses on innovative technologies that can convert solar energy into various products. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Solar Fuels: Converting solar energy into fuels such as hydrogen, methane, or liquid hydrocarbons through processes like artificial photosynthesis or solar thermochemical cycles.
• Solar Chemicals: Producing chemicals using solar energy, which can serve as raw materials for the chemical industry.
• Solar Materials: Creating materials that can capture and store solar energy for later use or that utilize solar energy in their production process.

Expected Outcomes

Projects funded under this challenge are expected to deliver several key outcomes:

1. Proof of Concept: Demonstrate the feasibility of converting solar energy into desired products at a lab scale.
2. Increased Efficiency: Achieve significant improvements in the efficiency of solar-to-X conversion processes.
3. Scalability: Develop scalable solutions that can be adapted for industrial-scale applications.
4. Sustainability: Ensure that the developed technologies are environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially acceptable.

Application Process

Eligibility

The challenge is open to a wide range of applicants, including universities, research organizations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and other entities capable of innovative research and development. The specific eligibility criteria include:

• Consortium Requirements: Proposals must be submitted by a consortium comprising at least three independent legal entities from different Member States or Associated Countries.
• Individual Applicants: Single entities such as high-tech SMEs and startups can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility conditions.

Proposal Submission

Applicants must submit their proposals through the EU Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal by the specified deadline, which for the 2024 call is October 16, 2024. Proposals should be detailed, outlining the vision, methodology, expected impact, and a comprehensive work plan.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on three main criteria:

1. Excellence: The novelty and ambition of the proposed technology, the soundness of the approach, and the interdisciplinary nature of the research.
2. Impact: The potential transformative effects, the innovation potential, and the measures for dissemination and exploitation of results.
3. Implementation: The quality and efficiency of the work plan, the allocation of resources, and the capability of the consortium.

Funding and Support

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Solar-to-X Devices” offers significant financial support to successful projects. The key details include:

• Total Budget: EUR 120 million allocated across various challenges, including “Solar-to-X Devices.”
• Grant Amount: Up to EUR 4 million per project, although larger amounts can be requested if justified.
• Funding Rate: 100% of eligible costs, provided as a lump sum.

In addition to financial support, successful applicants will receive tailor-made access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners.

Strategic Importance

The “Solar-to-X Devices” Challenge aligns with several strategic goals of the European Union, particularly in achieving the green transition and enhancing energy security. By promoting decentralized production of renewable energy carriers and materials, this challenge contributes to:

1. Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels: By developing alternative energy sources, Europe can reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhance energy security.
2. Promoting Sustainable Industrial Processes: The challenge supports the shift towards sustainable industrial processes, reducing the carbon footprint of key industries.
3. Stimulating Economic Growth: Innovations in solar-to-X technologies can create new market opportunities, drive economic growth, and generate high-tech jobs.

Case Studies and Success Stories

While the “Solar-to-X Devices” Challenge is a recent initiative, it builds on the success of previous EIC Pathfinder projects. Notable examples include:

1. Artificial Photosynthesis: Projects that mimic natural photosynthesis to produce hydrogen and other fuels using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.
2. Solar Thermochemical Processes: Innovations in solar reactors that convert solar energy into chemical energy stored in fuels or feedstocks for the chemical industry.

These projects have demonstrated the feasibility and potential of solar-to-X technologies, paving the way for more advanced and scalable solutions under the 2024 challenge.

Conclusion

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Solar-to-X Devices” represents a bold step towards a sustainable and resilient future. By fostering high-risk, high-gain research and supporting the development of transformative technologies, the EIC aims to unlock new pathways for renewable energy and materials production. Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to the green transition and make a lasting impact on society and the environment.

Revolutionizing Construction: The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks”

Introduction

The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, with cement production alone accounting for approximately 8% of the world’s CO2 emissions. To address this critical issue, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has launched the Pathfinder Challenge on “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” under its 2024 Work Programme. This challenge aims to transform cement and concrete from carbon-intensive materials into effective carbon sinks, thereby playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.

The Vision and Objectives

The “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” Challenge is driven by a vision to revolutionize the construction industry by developing and deploying innovative materials and processes that can capture and store carbon dioxide. The primary objectives of this challenge include:

1. Carbon Neutrality: Developing cement and concrete materials that can absorb more CO2 than they emit during their lifecycle.
2. Sustainable Construction: Promoting sustainable practices in the construction industry by leveraging carbon-storing materials.
3. Innovation in Materials Science: Pushing the boundaries of materials science to create high-performance, carbon-negative construction materials.

Scope of the Challenge

This challenge focuses on groundbreaking technologies and processes that enable cement and concrete to act as carbon sinks. This includes:

• Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Developing methods to incorporate CCS directly into the production and curing processes of cement and concrete.
• Carbonation: Enhancing the natural carbonation process where CO2 reacts with calcium compounds in the cement to form stable calcium carbonates.
• Novel Materials: Creating new types of cementitious materials that have an inherent ability to absorb CO2.

Expected Outcomes

Projects funded under this challenge are expected to deliver several key outcomes:

1. Proof of Concept: Demonstrate the feasibility of new materials or processes at a laboratory scale.
2. Enhanced Carbon Uptake: Achieve significant improvements in the carbon uptake capacity of cement and concrete.
3. Scalability: Develop scalable solutions that can be integrated into existing industrial processes.
4. Sustainability: Ensure that the new materials and processes are economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

Application Process

Eligibility

The challenge is open to a broad spectrum of applicants, including universities, research organizations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and other entities engaged in innovative research and development. The specific eligibility criteria include:

• Consortium Requirements: Proposals must be submitted by a consortium consisting of at least three independent legal entities from different Member States or Associated Countries.
• Individual Applicants: Single entities such as high-tech SMEs and startups can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility conditions.

Proposal Submission

Applicants must submit their proposals through the EU Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal by the specified deadline, which for the 2024 call is October 16, 2024. Proposals should be comprehensive, detailing the vision, methodology, expected impact, and a robust work plan.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on three main criteria:

1. Excellence: The novelty and ambition of the proposed technology, the soundness of the approach, and the interdisciplinary nature of the research.
2. Impact: The potential transformative effects, the innovation potential, and the measures for dissemination and exploitation of results.
3. Implementation: The quality and efficiency of the work plan, the allocation of resources, and the capability of the consortium.

Funding and Support

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” provides significant financial support to successful projects. Key details include:

• Total Budget: EUR 120 million allocated across various challenges, including “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks.”
• Grant Amount: Up to EUR 4 million per project, although larger amounts can be requested if justified.
• Funding Rate: 100% of eligible costs, provided as a lump sum.

In addition to financial support, successful applicants will receive tailored access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners.

Strategic Importance

The “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” Challenge aligns with several strategic goals of the European Union, particularly in achieving climate neutrality and enhancing sustainability in the construction sector. By promoting the development of carbon-storing construction materials, this challenge contributes to:

1. Reducing Carbon Emissions: By transforming cement and concrete into carbon sinks, the challenge aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry.
2. Promoting Sustainable Building Practices: Encouraging the use of sustainable materials in construction projects across Europe.
3. Driving Innovation in Construction Materials: Stimulating research and development in novel materials that can address environmental challenges while meeting construction needs.

Potential Impact and Benefits

The successful implementation of the “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” Challenge can have far-reaching impacts, including:

1. Environmental Benefits: Significant reduction in CO2 emissions from the construction sector, contributing to global climate goals.
2. Economic Advantages: Development of new industries and markets for carbon-negative construction materials, creating jobs and economic growth.
3. Social Impact: Promoting healthier living environments by reducing the carbon footprint of buildings and infrastructure.

Case Studies and Success Stories

While the “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” Challenge is a recent initiative, it builds on the success of previous projects and research in the field. Notable examples include:

1. CarbonCure Technologies: A company that injects captured CO2 into concrete during mixing, where it becomes permanently embedded, improving the material’s strength and reducing its carbon footprint.
2. Solidia Technologies: An innovative approach that uses a different chemical composition to produce cement that can absorb CO2 during the curing process, achieving significant carbon savings.

These projects demonstrate the potential for innovative materials and processes to transform the construction industry, providing a strong foundation for future advancements under the 2024 challenge.

Conclusion

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” represents a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming one of the most carbon-intensive industries into a key player in the fight against climate change. By fostering high-risk, high-gain research and supporting the development of innovative, sustainable construction materials, the EIC aims to drive significant environmental, economic, and social benefits. Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage this opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future and make a lasting impact on the construction industry and beyond.

Embracing Sustainability: The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging”

Introduction

The escalating environmental impact of plastic waste has become a critical global issue. In response, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has introduced the Pathfinder Challenge on “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” under its 2024 Work Programme. This challenge aims to revolutionize the food packaging industry by developing sustainable, biodegradable, and nature-inspired alternatives to traditional plastic packaging. By addressing this challenge, the EIC seeks to reduce plastic pollution, enhance environmental sustainability, and promote the circular economy.

The Vision and Objectives

The “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” Challenge is driven by a vision to replace conventional plastic packaging with eco-friendly alternatives derived from natural materials. The primary objectives of this challenge include:

1. Reducing Plastic Waste: Developing packaging materials that are biodegradable and compostable, thus reducing the environmental burden of plastic waste.
2. Sustainability: Promoting the use of renewable and sustainable resources in the production of food packaging.
3. Innovation in Materials Science: Creating high-performance packaging solutions inspired by natural materials and processes.

Scope of the Challenge

This challenge focuses on innovative approaches to create sustainable food packaging alternatives. Key areas of interest include:

• Biodegradable Materials: Developing materials that can decompose naturally without harming the environment, such as bioplastics derived from plant-based sources.
• Compostable Packaging: Creating packaging that can break down in composting conditions, contributing to soil health and reducing landfill waste.
• Edible Packaging: Exploring materials that can be safely consumed along with the food, thereby eliminating waste entirely.
• Nature-Inspired Designs: Leveraging biomimicry to develop packaging solutions that replicate the efficiency and sustainability of natural processes and materials.

Expected Outcomes

Projects funded under this challenge are expected to deliver several key outcomes:

1. Proof of Concept: Demonstrate the feasibility of new materials or processes at a laboratory scale.
2. Enhanced Performance: Achieve significant improvements in the functionality and performance of biodegradable and compostable packaging materials.
3. Scalability: Develop scalable solutions that can be adopted by the food packaging industry.
4. Sustainability: Ensure that the new materials and processes are economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

Application Process

Eligibility

The challenge is open to a wide range of applicants, including universities, research organizations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and other entities engaged in innovative research and development. The specific eligibility criteria include:

• Consortium Requirements: Proposals must be submitted by a consortium consisting of at least three independent legal entities from different Member States or Associated Countries.
• Individual Applicants: Single entities such as high-tech SMEs and startups can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility conditions.

Proposal Submission

Applicants must submit their proposals through the EU Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal by the specified deadline, which for the 2024 call is October 16, 2024. Proposals should be comprehensive, detailing the vision, methodology, expected impact, and a robust work plan.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on three main criteria:

1. Excellence: The novelty and ambition of the proposed technology, the soundness of the approach, and the interdisciplinary nature of the research.
2. Impact: The potential transformative effects, the innovation potential, and the measures for dissemination and exploitation of results.
3. Implementation: The quality and efficiency of the work plan, the allocation of resources, and the capability of the consortium.

Funding and Support

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” provides significant financial support to successful projects. Key details include:

• Total Budget: EUR 120 million allocated across various challenges, including “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging.”
• Grant Amount: Up to EUR 4 million per project, although larger amounts can be requested if justified.
• Funding Rate: 100% of eligible costs, provided as a lump sum.

In addition to financial support, successful applicants will receive tailored access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners.

Strategic Importance

The “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” Challenge aligns with several strategic goals of the European Union, particularly in promoting sustainability and reducing environmental pollution. By fostering the development of eco-friendly packaging materials, this challenge contributes to:

1. Reducing Plastic Pollution: By replacing conventional plastic packaging with biodegradable alternatives, the challenge aims to significantly reduce plastic waste and its environmental impact.
2. Promoting the Circular Economy: Encouraging the use of renewable resources and the creation of compostable materials supports the transition to a circular economy.
3. Driving Innovation in Packaging: Stimulating research and development in novel packaging materials that can address environmental challenges while meeting industry needs.

Potential Impact and Benefits

The successful implementation of the “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” Challenge can have far-reaching impacts, including:

1. Environmental Benefits: Significant reduction in plastic pollution and its associated impacts on ecosystems and human health.
2. Economic Advantages: Development of new industries and markets for sustainable packaging materials, creating jobs and economic growth.
3. Social Impact: Promoting environmentally responsible consumer behavior and reducing the environmental footprint of food packaging.

Case Studies and Success Stories

While the “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” Challenge is a recent initiative, it builds on the success of previous projects and research in the field. Notable examples include:

1. Biodegradable Films from Chitosan: Research into chitosan, a natural polymer derived from chitin found in shellfish, has shown promise as a biodegradable film for food packaging.
2. PLA-based Packaging: Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable plastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch, which has been used to create compostable packaging solutions.
3. Edible Packaging Innovations: Companies like Notpla have developed edible packaging made from seaweed and plants, offering a zero-waste alternative to plastic.

These projects demonstrate the potential for innovative materials and processes to transform the food packaging industry, providing a strong foundation for future advancements under the 2024 challenge.

Conclusion

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Nature-Inspired Alternatives for Food Packaging” represents a bold initiative aimed at addressing one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. By fostering high-risk, high-gain research and supporting the development of sustainable packaging materials, the EIC aims to drive significant environmental, economic, and social benefits. Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage this opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future and make a lasting impact on the food packaging industry and beyond.

Advancing Technology: The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices”

Introduction

As the demand for smart devices continues to surge, so does the need for energy-efficient solutions. Nanoelectronics, the study and application of extremely small electronic components, holds the key to creating the next generation of energy-efficient smart devices. To spearhead this technological evolution, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has launched the Pathfinder Challenge on “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” under its 2024 Work Programme. This challenge aims to stimulate groundbreaking research and innovation in nanoelectronics to develop smart devices that are not only powerful and efficient but also environmentally sustainable.

The Vision and Objectives

The “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” Challenge is driven by a vision to harness the potential of nanoelectronics to revolutionize smart device technology. The primary objectives of this challenge include:

1. Energy Efficiency: Developing nanoelectronic components and systems that drastically reduce the energy consumption of smart devices.
2. Miniaturization: Pushing the boundaries of miniaturization to create smaller, more powerful, and efficient components.
3. Sustainability: Promoting sustainable manufacturing processes and materials in the production of nanoelectronic components.
4. Innovation in Device Functionality: Enhancing the functionality and performance of smart devices through advanced nanoelectronics.

Scope of the Challenge

This challenge focuses on innovative approaches to create energy-efficient smart devices using nanoelectronics. Key areas of interest include:

• Low-Power Consumption: Developing nanoelectronic components that significantly lower the power consumption of smart devices.
• Advanced Materials: Utilizing novel materials such as graphene, 2D materials, and other advanced semiconductors to enhance device performance.
• Integration and Miniaturization: Achieving higher levels of integration and miniaturization in electronic components to enable more compact and efficient devices.
• Sustainable Manufacturing: Implementing environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and sustainable materials in nanoelectronics.

Expected Outcomes

Projects funded under this challenge are expected to deliver several key outcomes:

1. Proof of Concept: Demonstrate the feasibility of new materials, processes, or components at a laboratory scale.
2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Achieve significant improvements in the energy efficiency of nanoelectronic components.
3. Scalability: Develop scalable solutions that can be integrated into mass production for the smart device industry.
4. Sustainability: Ensure that the new materials and processes are economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

Application Process

Eligibility

The challenge is open to a broad spectrum of applicants, including universities, research organizations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and other entities engaged in innovative research and development. The specific eligibility criteria include:

• Consortium Requirements: Proposals must be submitted by a consortium consisting of at least three independent legal entities from different Member States or Associated Countries.
• Individual Applicants: Single entities such as high-tech SMEs and startups can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility conditions.

Proposal Submission

Applicants must submit their proposals through the EU Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal by the specified deadline, which for the 2024 call is October 16, 2024. Proposals should be comprehensive, detailing the vision, methodology, expected impact, and a robust work plan.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on three main criteria:

1. Excellence: The novelty and ambition of the proposed technology, the soundness of the approach, and the interdisciplinary nature of the research.
2. Impact: The potential transformative effects, the innovation potential, and the measures for dissemination and exploitation of results.
3. Implementation: The quality and efficiency of the work plan, the allocation of resources, and the capability of the consortium.

Funding and Support

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” provides significant financial support to successful projects. Key details include:

• Total Budget: EUR 120 million allocated across various challenges, including “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices.”
• Grant Amount: Up to EUR 4 million per project, although larger amounts can be requested if justified.
• Funding Rate: 100% of eligible costs, provided as a lump sum.

In addition to financial support, successful applicants will receive tailored access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners.

Strategic Importance

The “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” Challenge aligns with several strategic goals of the European Union, particularly in promoting technological innovation and sustainability. By fostering the development of energy-efficient smart devices, this challenge contributes to:

1. Reducing Energy Consumption: By developing low-power nanoelectronic components, the challenge aims to reduce the energy consumption of smart devices, contributing to global energy-saving efforts.
2. Promoting Technological Advancement: Encouraging cutting-edge research in nanoelectronics to drive technological advancements in the smart device industry.
3. Sustainable Development: Promoting sustainable practices in the development and manufacturing of electronic components, aligning with the EU’s sustainability goals.

Potential Impact and Benefits

The successful implementation of the “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” Challenge can have far-reaching impacts, including:

1. Environmental Benefits: Significant reduction in the energy consumption of smart devices, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a reduced carbon footprint.
2. Economic Advantages: Development of new industries and markets for advanced nanoelectronic components, creating jobs and economic growth.
3. Technological Innovation: Driving innovation in the smart device industry, leading to the development of more advanced, efficient, and powerful devices.

Case Studies and Success Stories

While the “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” Challenge is a recent initiative, it builds on the success of previous projects and research in the field. Notable examples include:

1. Graphene-Based Transistors: Research into graphene transistors has shown promise in significantly reducing power consumption while enhancing performance, paving the way for more efficient smart devices.
2. 2D Material Devices: Innovations in 2D materials, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), have led to the development of ultra-thin, low-power electronic components.
3. Energy-Harvesting Devices: Projects that integrate energy-harvesting technologies, such as piezoelectric materials, into nanoelectronics to power smart devices sustainably.

These projects demonstrate the potential for innovative materials and processes to transform the nanoelectronics and smart device industries, providing a strong foundation for future advancements under the 2024 challenge.

Conclusion

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Nanoelectronics for Energy-Efficient Smart Devices” represents a bold initiative aimed at addressing one of the most critical technological and environmental challenges of our time. By fostering high-risk, high-gain research and supporting the development of advanced nanoelectronic components, the EIC aims to drive significant environmental, economic, and technological benefits. Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage this opportunity to contribute to a sustainable and advanced future, making a lasting impact on the smart device industry and beyond.

Safeguarding the Final Frontier: The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure”

Introduction

Space has become an indispensable domain for various critical functions, including communications, navigation, earth observation, and scientific research. As reliance on space infrastructure grows, so do the risks and threats it faces, from space debris to cyber-attacks. Recognizing the strategic importance of protecting these assets, the European Innovation Council (EIC) has launched the Pathfinder Challenge on “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” under its 2024 Work Programme. This challenge aims to foster innovative solutions to safeguard space infrastructure, ensuring the resilience and security of the European Union’s (EU) space assets.

The Vision and Objectives

The “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” Challenge is driven by a vision to develop and implement advanced technologies and strategies that can protect space infrastructure from various threats. The primary objectives of this challenge include:

1. Threat Mitigation: Developing technologies to detect, prevent, and mitigate threats to space infrastructure.
2. Resilience Building: Enhancing the resilience of space assets to withstand and recover from adverse conditions.
3. Sustainability: Promoting sustainable practices in space operations to prevent and mitigate space debris.
4. Innovation in Space Security: Encouraging groundbreaking research and innovation in the field of space security and infrastructure protection.

Scope of the Challenge

This challenge focuses on innovative approaches to protect space infrastructure. Key areas of interest include:

• Space Debris Management: Developing technologies to track, mitigate, and remove space debris to prevent collisions and damage to space assets.
• Cybersecurity: Enhancing the cybersecurity of space-based systems to protect against cyber-attacks and unauthorized access.
• Space Weather Monitoring: Developing systems to monitor and predict space weather events that could impact space infrastructure.
• Resilient Satellite Systems: Designing satellite systems with enhanced resilience to withstand physical and cyber threats.

Expected Outcomes

Projects funded under this challenge are expected to deliver several key outcomes:

1. Proof of Concept: Demonstrate the feasibility of new technologies or processes at a laboratory scale.
2. Enhanced Security: Achieve significant improvements in the security and resilience of space infrastructure.
3. Scalability: Develop scalable solutions that can be integrated into existing space operations.
4. Sustainability: Ensure that the new technologies and processes are economically viable and environmentally sustainable.

Application Process

Eligibility

The challenge is open to a wide range of applicants, including universities, research organizations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and other entities engaged in innovative research and development. The specific eligibility criteria include:

• Consortium Requirements: Proposals must be submitted by a consortium consisting of at least three independent legal entities from different Member States or Associated Countries.
• Individual Applicants: Single entities such as high-tech SMEs and startups can also apply, provided they meet the eligibility conditions.

Proposal Submission

Applicants must submit their proposals through the EU Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal by the specified deadline, which for the 2024 call is October 16, 2024. Proposals should be comprehensive, detailing the vision, methodology, expected impact, and a robust work plan.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on three main criteria:

1. Excellence: The novelty and ambition of the proposed technology, the soundness of the approach, and the interdisciplinary nature of the research.
2. Impact: The potential transformative effects, the innovation potential, and the measures for dissemination and exploitation of results.
3. Implementation: The quality and efficiency of the work plan, the allocation of resources, and the capability of the consortium.

Funding and Support

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” provides significant financial support to successful projects. Key details include:

• Total Budget: EUR 120 million allocated across various challenges, including “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure.”
• Grant Amount: Up to EUR 4 million per project, although larger amounts can be requested if justified.
• Funding Rate: 100% of eligible costs, provided as a lump sum.

In addition to financial support, successful applicants will receive tailored access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners.

Strategic Importance

The “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” Challenge aligns with several strategic goals of the European Union, particularly in enhancing security and resilience in space. By fostering the development of advanced protection technologies, this challenge contributes to:

1. Securing Critical Infrastructure: By developing technologies to protect space assets, the challenge aims to secure critical infrastructure essential for communications, navigation, and other vital services.
2. Promoting Technological Innovation: Encouraging cutting-edge research in space security to drive technological advancements.
3. Sustainable Space Operations: Promoting sustainable practices in space to prevent the accumulation of space debris and ensure long-term operational viability.

Potential Impact and Benefits

The successful implementation of the “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” Challenge can have far-reaching impacts, including:

1. Enhanced Security: Improved protection of space infrastructure from physical, cyber, and environmental threats.
2. Economic Advantages: Development of new technologies and services in space security, creating jobs and economic growth.
3. Technological Leadership: Positioning the EU as a leader in space security and infrastructure protection technologies.

Case Studies and Success Stories

While the “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” Challenge is a recent initiative, it builds on the success of previous projects and research in the field. Notable examples include:

1. ESA’s Space Debris Mitigation Efforts: The European Space Agency (ESA) has been at the forefront of developing guidelines and technologies for space debris mitigation, including active debris removal missions.
2. Cybersecurity for Space Operations: Research initiatives focused on enhancing the cybersecurity of satellite communications and control systems, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.
3. Space Weather Monitoring Systems: Development of advanced monitoring and prediction systems for space weather events, which can significantly impact satellite operations.

These projects demonstrate the potential for innovative technologies to transform the field of space security, providing a strong foundation for future advancements under the 2024 challenge.

Conclusion

The EIC Pathfinder Challenge on “Protecting EU Space Infrastructure” represents a bold initiative aimed at addressing one of the most critical technological and security challenges of our time. By fostering high-risk, high-gain research and supporting the development of advanced protection technologies, the EIC aims to drive significant security, economic, and technological benefits. Researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage this opportunity to contribute to a secure and resilient space infrastructure, making a lasting impact on the future of space operations and beyond.