EIC accelerator green deal

Introducing the Six Transformative Challenges of the EIC Accelerator 2024

by

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator stands at the forefront of technological and scientific advancement, driving innovation across various sectors. In its latest endeavor, the EIC has unveiled six challenges, each targeting critical areas of development and research. These challenges are not just aimed at pushing the boundaries of technology but also at addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our society today. 1. Human Centric Generative AI Made in Europe This challenge focuses on the development of generative AI technologies with a human-centric approach. It emphasizes the ethical, legal, and societal aspects of AI, ensuring that these groundbreaking technologies are developed with a focus on human rights, democracy, and ethical principles. This initiative aligns with the European Union’s commitment to digital innovation that respects fundamental human values. 2. Enabling Virtual Worlds and Augmented Interaction for Industry 5.0 Targeting the realm of Industry 5.0, this challenge aims to advance virtual and augmented reality technologies. These technologies are set to revolutionize industrial applications by enhancing user experience and interaction, thus contributing significantly to the progression towards a more connected and technologically advanced industrial era. 3. Enabling the Smart Edge and Quantum Technology Components Focusing on the cutting edge of computing and communication systems, this challenge revolves around developing technologies related to smart edge computing and quantum components. It acknowledges the growing importance of quantum technology and edge computing in shaping the future of data processing and communication. 4. Food from Precision Fermentation and Algae This challenge addresses innovative approaches to sustainable food production, focusing on precision fermentation techniques and the use of algae. It aims to revolutionize the food industry by exploring more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally friendly methods of food production, thereby contributing to global food security. 5. Monoclonal Antibody-Based Therapeutics for New Variants of Emerging Viruses In response to the evolving nature of viral diseases, this challenge is geared towards developing monoclonal antibody-based treatments for emerging viruses, with a particular focus on new and varying strains. This initiative is crucial in the fight against pandemics and emerging viral threats, highlighting the need for agile and adaptive medical solutions. 6. Renewable Energy Sources and Their Whole Value Chain This challenge encompasses the entire value chain of renewable energy sources, from material development to the recycling of components. It emphasizes the need for sustainable energy solutions that consider every aspect of the renewable energy lifecycle, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to environmental sustainability and green technology. In conclusion, the EIC Accelerator’s six challenges represent a diverse and ambitious set of goals aimed at driving innovation and addressing key global challenges. From AI and virtual reality to sustainable food production and renewable energy, these challenges reflect the EIC’s commitment to shaping a future that is technologically advanced, sustainable, and human-centric.     1. Human-Centric Generative AI in Europe: Balancing Innovation with Ethics and Society The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has opened up a world of possibilities, transforming the way we live, work, and interact. However, the rapid development and deployment of AI technologies, particularly generative AI, have raised significant ethical, legal, and societal concerns. Europe, with its focus on human-centric AI, is at the forefront of addressing these challenges, striving to ensure that AI development is aligned with ethical principles and societal values. The European Approach to Human-Centric AI Europe’s approach to AI is deeply rooted in its commitment to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The European Union (EU) emphasizes the importance of developing AI that is trustworthy, ethical, and respects fundamental rights. This focus is evident in various initiatives and strategies, such as the Digital Europe Programme, which aims to enhance the strategic digital capabilities of the EU and promote the deployment of digital technologies, including AI. Key European strategies on AI and digital transformation include integrating education to provide citizens with the skills to understand AI’s capabilities and implementing methodologies to manage workforce transitions. These strategies support fundamental and purpose-driven research, creating a strong and appealing environment that attracts and retains talent in Europe. The EU’s commitment to ethical AI is also evident in the establishment of various AI research networks, such as CLAIRE, TAILOR, Humane-AI Net, AI4Media, and ELISE, which aim to boost the human-centric approach to AI in Europe. The European Commission has also launched initiatives like the European Research Council and AI Watch to promote and monitor the development of trustworthy AI solutions. The Role of Generative AI in Europe Generative AI, which includes technologies like large language models and image generation tools, is rapidly gaining traction in Europe. This technology has the potential to revolutionize industries by personalizing consumer engagement, improving customer experiences, and creating new products and services. However, it also poses challenges, such as the potential for misuse of personal data and the creation of harmful content. To address these challenges, European companies and researchers are encouraged to establish guardrails to protect consumer privacy and ensure that the content generated by AI is safe and respectful. This approach aligns with Europe’s strong emphasis on privacy and data protection, as enshrined in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Ethical and Societal Considerations Europe’s focus on human-centric AI extends to the ethical and societal implications of AI development. The EU has established various platforms and think tanks, such as PACE (Participactive And Constructive Ethics) in the Netherlands, to foster ethical AI applications. These platforms bring together companies, governmental authorities, centers of expertise, and civil society organizations to accelerate the development of human-centric AI. The EU Ethics Guidelines for AI outline critical concerns and red lines in AI development, emphasizing the importance of putting human interests at the center of AI innovation. These guidelines address issues such as citizen scoring and the development of autonomous weapons, advocating for strong policy and regulatory frameworks to manage these critical concerns. The Future of AI in Europe Europe’s commitment to ethical, legal, and societal aspects of AI positions it as a potential global leader in the field. By focusing on human-centric AI, Europe can create … Read more

ChatEIC Explains the EIC Accelerator Work Programme 2024

by

European Innovation Council (EIC) 2024 Work Programme This comprehensive document details the EIC’s strategic approach, funding opportunities, and support services for groundbreaking innovations and technologies in various fields.   Introduction and Overview (Pages 5-6): Start with the introduction and overview sections to gain a foundational understanding of the EIC’s goals, key performance indicators, and an outline of the 2024 Work Programme. This will provide context for the rest of the document. EIC Pathfinder (Pages 22-49): If you’re interested in advanced research with the potential to develop breakthrough technologies, the EIC Pathfinder section is essential. It covers the EIC Pathfinder Open and Pathfinder Challenges, offering insights into the types of projects supported, application criteria, and support available. EIC Transition (Pages 49-60): For those looking to translate advanced technologies into marketable innovations, the EIC Transition section is highly relevant. It details support for bringing these technologies closer to market readiness. EIC Accelerator (Pages 60-96): If you’re focused on start-ups or SMEs with innovative technologies ready for scaling, the EIC Accelerator section is crucial. It provides information on how the EIC supports market-creating innovations, including funding and investment details. EIC Business Acceleration Services (Pages 96-100): This section is valuable for understanding the additional support offered by the EIC, including coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities. EIC Prizes (Pages 100-113): This part details various innovation prizes, providing opportunities for additional recognition and funding. Glossary (Pages 16, 806-835): Finally, the glossary offers clear definitions of terms and concepts used throughout the document, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the content. Each of these sections offers unique insights and information depending on your specific interests, whether it’s in deep-tech research, transitioning technologies to the market, scaling up innovative startups, or understanding the broader EIC ecosystem.   What exactly are the EIC Challenges about? The EIC Challenges in the 2024 Work Programme are focused initiatives aimed at solving specific, high-impact problems through breakthrough technologies and innovations. They are part of the EIC Pathfinder scheme, designed to support interdisciplinary research and development at the cutting edge of science and technology. Here are the key details of the EIC Challenges:   Specific Objectives: Each EIC Challenge has a distinct objective addressing critical societal, environmental, or economic issues. These objectives are formulated based on their potential to create significant impacts and foster pioneering innovations. Targeted Research Areas: The challenges are aligned with specific research areas that require novel approaches and innovative solutions. These areas are carefully chosen based on current technological gaps and future potential. Interdisciplinary Approach: The challenges encourage a cross-disciplinary approach, combining expertise from different scientific and technological fields. This is essential for tackling complex problems that cannot be addressed through a single discipline. Funding and Support: The EIC provides substantial funding and support to selected projects. This includes financial support for research activities, as well as access to a range of innovation support services and networking opportunities. Collaboration and Consortia: Applicants are often encouraged to form consortia, bringing together diverse teams from academia, industry, and other sectors. This collaborative approach is key to driving innovation and ensuring the applicability of research outcomes. Expected Outcomes: The EIC Challenges aim for tangible, high-impact outcomes that can lead to breakthroughs in their respective fields. This could include the development of new technologies, processes, or products that have the potential for significant societal or economic benefits. Application and Evaluation Process: The challenges have a specific application process, where proposals are evaluated based on their innovative potential, the capability of the team, and the potential impact of the project. Long-Term Vision: Beyond immediate research goals, the challenges are part of the EIC’s broader vision to foster a vibrant European innovation ecosystem and maintain Europe’s competitive edge in strategic technology sectors. These challenges represent an opportunity for researchers and innovators to contribute to transformative projects with the potential for far-reaching impacts.   What are the EIC Accelerator Challenges? The EIC Accelerator Challenges for 2024 are focused on supporting high-impact innovations in several key areas. Here’s a detailed look at each of these challenges: Human Centric Generative AI Made in Europe: This challenge emphasizes the development of artificial intelligence technologies that prioritize ethical considerations and human-centric principles, ensuring that AI development aligns with European values and standards. Enabling Virtual Worlds and Augmented Interaction in High-Impact Applications to Support the Realisation of Industry 5.0: This challenge aims to advance technologies in virtual and augmented reality, contributing to the evolution of Industry 5.0. It focuses on applications that can significantly impact various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Enabling the Smart Edge and Quantum Technology Components: This challenge is centered around the development of advanced technologies in the realm of edge computing and quantum computing. It seeks to foster innovations that can enhance computational power and efficiency, especially in applications requiring rapid data processing and analysis. Food from Precision Fermentation and Algae: Here, the focus is on innovative methods for food production, particularly through precision fermentation and algae-based systems. This challenge addresses the need for sustainable and scalable food production techniques, which are crucial for meeting global food demand and reducing environmental impact. Monoclonal Antibody-Based Therapeutics for New Variants of Emerging Viruses: This challenge is in the field of biomedicine, specifically the development of monoclonal antibody treatments for emerging viral diseases. It aims to accelerate the creation of effective therapies to combat new variants of viruses, enhancing pandemic preparedness and response. Renewable Energy Sources and Their Whole Value Chain Including Materials Development and Recycling of Components: This challenge focuses on the entire value chain of renewable energy, from materials development to the recycling of components. It seeks to promote innovations that can improve the efficiency, sustainability, and scalability of renewable energy sources. Each of these challenges is designed to address critical areas where innovation can have a profound impact on society, the environment, and the economy​​.   EIC Accelerator Challenge 1: Human Centric Generative AI made in Europe The “Human Centric Generative AI made in Europe” challenge, as part of the EIC Accelerator 2024 Work Programme, addresses … Read more

The Profile of a Company That Should Not Apply for the EIC Accelerator (SME Instrument)

by

The EIC Accelerator blended financing (formerly SME Instrument Phase 2, grant and equity) is a highly competitive but also highly popular grant and equity financing scheme by the European Innovation Council (EIC). Many startups and Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME) in the EU but also in associated countries such as Israel or Norway are interested in applying to the funds but many would be better off seeking out other options. While grant consultancies and professional writers all have different approaches to the selection of suitable EIC Accelerator applicants, there are some common themes that are shared among success-oriented grant consultants. Since the official grant proposal template for the EIC Accelerator does not clarify such nuanced points in-depth, the following article aims to give an overview of the types of companies that should not apply. For any startup or scaleup that is recognising themselves in any of the points listed below, it would be advisable to refrain from hiring a writer or consultant since time and resources can be better spent elsewhere. Note: The EIC does not primarily select great companies, it primarily selects companies that fit a certain mould. Having low chances for success under the EIC does not mean that the company or project are bad. The EIC would have never financed social networks like Facebook or Twitter and even industry-specific unicorn companies like Epic Games or Instacart. Yet, these are all success cases on a level the EIC dreams of. The list below is designed to highlight the first impression that consultants and grant writers often face when a client first comes into contact. Since the demand for grant writers is generally very high, this first impression will likely define how interested the consultancy is in a particular project. How do they present their company or technology? Why do they need EIC Accelerator support? What needs to be financed? 1. An Inquiry Uses a Gmail or Similar Domain Address While this is not a strong red flag – it suggests that the company or project is not fully formed yet. Buying a domain and creating a private email account usually precedes even the company registration since it is so simple (and cheap). If an inquiry lacks a private domain then this is usually a sign that a project is in the idea stage. Very few founders would contact investors or customers with a Gmail address which means that any inquiry from such an address is a tell for an ineligible project. Since 2021, the EIC Accelerator also funds non-incorporated natural persons but, due to the competitiveness of the grant, this does not mean that a single person without backing, traction or support networks will be able to be successful. Every inquiry that comes from a domain that is not privately hosted and is not attached to a Corporate Identity (CI) will likely be ignored by selective consultancies. 2. The Prospect EIC Accelerator Applicant is in the Idea Stage The new EIC’s AI platform aims to display the journey from Ideation towards Go-to-Market but that does not mean that a natural person can be successful with a pure idea. The Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) clearly outline the stage a technology has to be in with TRL5 being the minimum for the EIC Accelerator and lower TRL’s only being possible in EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition programs. The current diagnostics and ideation parts of the EIC Accelerator application are misleading since they can give the impression that projects can still be in the idea stage and is then transformed into a commercial product once Step 3 is reached but this is not the case. The applicant’s project will not make significant changes from Step 1 to 3 – the only thing that will change is the amount and depth of data that is provided to the EIC for evaluation purposes. The EIC Accelerator, also a misleading name, is not a traditional accelerator that aims to help startups succeed by helping with product development, investor relationships or customer contact. The primary resource, outside of limited coaching, will be financial which means that the applicants need a business plan, the right commerial strategy and must have all it takes to implement the project. The EIC will not hold the beneficiaries hands albeit they will aim to create networking opportunities if it matches current political agendas such as the Green Deal, COVID-19 relief or similar trends. Having an idea and reaching out to a consultant with a half-formed business plan will likely be insufficient and be ignored by most selective writers. 3. The Company has no Website or Social Presence It is understandable that many companies are in stealth mode especially when it comes to DeepTech products in the area of biotechnology or pharmaceuticals where large competitors spend billions on R&D and could copy a technology quickly – patented or not. Still, even if a company has no interest in marketing itself or in publicising its technology, every company that has sufficient seed funding and the degree of traction needed to succeed in the EIC Accelerator should have a website and a LinkedIn page at the very least. There can be exceptions but no presence at all often means that founders view this project as a side business or are not invested in its success. One additional exception to this is a newly formed company that is a University spin-off or subsidiary of another company. In the latter case, the prospective applicant can usually provide a website link for the parent company while, in the former case, they could be too early stage for the EIC Accelerator but can be eligible for the EIC Pathfinder. 4. Based on Research that is not Theirs (a University Non-Spin-Off) What can often be encountered is a company that is basing its technology on University research that is not theirs but also does not exist in the market yet. This, in and of itself, does not mean that it is ineligible for the EIC Accelerator but … Read more

Rasph - EIC Accelerator Consulting
en_US
fr_FR de_DE el it_IT es_ES pl_PL et pt_PT da_DK sv_SE fi bg_BG hr cs_CZ nl_NL hu_HU lv lt_LT ro_RO sk_SK sl_SI uk he_IL tr_TR is_IS sr_RS ka_GE nb_NO en_US