Understanding the European Innovation Council Accelerator: A Comprehensive Overview of Its Purpose, Features, and Opportunities for Visionary Entrepreneurs

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator represents a pivotal component of Horizon Europe’s comprehensive suite of funding initiatives, meticulously designed to underpin cutting-edge companies that are at the forefront of exploiting radical technological advances or path-breaking scientific insights, collectively known as Deep Technology (DeepTech). With a financial framework that encompasses up to €2.5 million in the form of non-dilutive Grant funding and the potential for up to €15 million in Equity investment per individual project, the EIC Accelerator orchestrates a robust mechanism for propelling high-risk, high-impact innovations from concept to market realization. This strategic infusion of capital aims to catalyze the growth trajectories of start-ups and SMEs as they navigate the challenging phases of product development, scale-up, and market deployment.

Comprehensive Overview of Targeted Technologies Eligible for Funding through the EIC Accelerator Program

Since its inception in 2021, the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program has supported over 400 pioneering enterprises, spanning a diverse spectrum of sectors. This includes ventures engaged in the development of capital-intensive hardware solutions as well as those focused exclusively on the innovation and deployment of sophisticated software products, with a particular emphasis on Deep Technology (DeepTech) domains. The EIC Accelerator maintains an open stance towards a wide array of technological advancements and does not impose overarching technological constraints on its applicants. However, to remain consistent with EU directives, technologies with potential military applications are exempt from consideration. In addition to this broad scope for innovation, the EIC Accelerator program identifies and promotes a set of Technology Challenges on an annual basis. These challenges are designed to spotlight and incentivize progress in specific technological areas that are deemed strategically important and have high potential for societal impact within the European Union.

Assessing the Maturity Level Required for a Technology to Qualify for the EIC Accelerator Program

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program specifically targets innovations that have achieved a minimum of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5, a stage characterized by the validation of the technology within an environment that closely mirrors real-world conditions. At this level, the innovation is expected to have progressed beyond theoretical stages, embodying a tangible prototype or a demonstrable proof-of-concept that substantiates its efficacy and potential.

Applicants seeking financial support from the EIC Accelerator can apply for Grant funding if their technology has advanced to TRL 6 or TRL 7. At TRL 6, the technology must have been demonstrated in a relevant environment, showcasing its ability to function under conditions similar to its intended use. Further progression to TRL 7 indicates that the prototype has undergone system prototype demonstration in an operational environment, offering a more comprehensive validation of its performance and suitability.

For technologies that have reached TRL 8, where the actual system has been completed and qualified through test and demonstration, the EIC Accelerator offers the opportunity to apply for pure Equity investment. This funding option is designed to support the final stages of technology development and scaling, facilitating the transition from an innovative concept to a market-ready product or solution.

Exploring the Range of Financial Support Offered Through the EIC Accelerator Program

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator provides robust financial support tailored to the needs of companies poised for growth and market expansion. Qualified enterprises can access substantial funding through three distinct instruments:

1. Grant Financing: The EIC Accelerator offers non-dilutive grant funding of up to €2.5 million, allotted as a lump sum to support activities such as proof of concept, prototyping, system development, piloting, validation, and testing in real-world environments, as well as market replication.

2. Equity Financing: For ventures seeking a more substantial funding mechanism, the EIC Accelerator may provide equity investments reaching up to €15 million. This equity component is facilitated through the EIC Fund or its affiliates and involves a calculated exchange of capital for a strategic ownership stake in the applicant’s company. This allows for a more substantial financial backing, enabling scaling and significant growth without the need to repay the investment like a traditional loan.

3. Blended Finance: Companies that require a synergy of grant and equity backing can benefit from Blended Finance, featuring a combination of both types of funding, up to an aggregate ceiling of €17.5 million. This hybrid financing model is structured to leverage the advantages of grant funding together with the sizable capital infusion that equity financing offers, thus providing a comprehensive financial package.

Applicants possess the flexibility to determine the financing model that most aptly aligns with their strategic goals and the scale of their innovation project. They can tailor their request to include the desired funding type (grant, equity, or blended finance) and specify the amount that reflects their needs.

Moreover, in circumstances where the scope and ambition of the innovation project justify a larger investment, the EIC Accelerator is open to considering requests that exceed the standard funding ceilings. These exceptional cases are evaluated on their individual merit, ensuring that the most groundbreaking and disruptive companies have access to the capital required to reach their full market potential.

Detailed Overview of EIC Accelerator Applicant’s Business and Innovation Background

Eligibility Criteria and Types of Entities That Qualify for EIC Accelerator Funding

Entities seeking funding through the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program must primarily be for-profit Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) that are legally incorporated within a member state or associated country that is deemed eligible for participation. However, the framework also accommodates applications from individual entrepreneurs and investors, with the stipulation that a qualifying company must be established prior to the formal execution of the Grant Agreement Contract.

To qualify as an SME under the EIC Accelerator’s guidelines, the enterprise must be autonomous, not linked to or partnered with larger firms that fall outside the SME categorization. The SME should have a workforce of fewer than 250 persons, and it must exhibit either an annual turnover not exceeding €50 million or a balance sheet total that does not surpass €43 million. These financial thresholds ensure that the funding is targeted towards genuinely independent and medium-sized entities that are looking to innovate and scale up within the market.

Eligibility Criteria: List of European Union Member States Qualified to Participate in the EIC Accelerator Program

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator programme is strategically designed to be inclusive and is widely available to a diverse array of innovative entities, including both companies and individual entrepreneurs residing within the entire European Union. This encompasses all 27 member states, namely Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. Additionally, the programme extends its reach to include the outermost regions and territories that are under the jurisdiction of these member states, ensuring that the EIC Accelerator’s support, funding opportunities, and resources are thoroughly accessible to innovators across the European Union’s expansive geopolitical landscape.

Eligibility Criteria for Non-EU Countries to Participate in the EIC Accelerator Programme

In the framework of the EIC Accelerator, a substantive network of association agreements with the Horizon Europe programme has been meticulously established. This intricate network facilitates the participation of a diverse array of entities, including enterprises and individual innovators, from a comprehensive list of non-EU countries. Specifically, entities based in Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Faroe Islands, Georgia, Iceland, Israel, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Morocco, and the United Kingdom are eligible to apply, with the latter being eligible for grant funding only. These agreements extend the opportunity for these countries to be actively involved in cutting-edge research and innovation activities, aligning closely with the overarching objectives of the EIC Accelerator to foster groundbreaking innovation on a global scale.

Assessing Your Fit: Understanding if Your Innovative Venture Aligns with the EIC Accelerator Program Criteria

Exploring the Detailed Success Rates of Applications for the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator Program

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program maintains a rigorous evaluation process encompassing three distinct stages, but detailed success rates corresponding to each phase are not publicly disclosed. However, a comprehensive analysis of the program’s competitive landscape suggests that the cumulative success rate from the initial submission in Step 1 through to the final decision in Step 3 is likely to be at or below 5%. The precise rate of successful applications is influenced by various factors, including the EIC Accelerator’s allocated annual budget, the volume of submissions received for each cut-off date, and the specific nature of the funding call – whether it falls under the Open category, designed to support breakthrough innovations across any field of technology or industry, or under the Challenges category, targeting solutions for specific societal problems.

Consequently, the success rate may fluctuate, increasing or decreasing in response to these variables.

Assessing Your Enterprise’s Eligibility for the EIC Accelerator Program: Criteria and Fit

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator programme is particularly oriented toward enterprises that are at the forefront of innovation, championing technologies that break new ground and potentially disrupt existing markets or create entirely new ones. The EIC Accelerator prioritizes applicants with a foundation in DeepTech, embodying advanced scientific knowledge, or those that stem from a robust technological nexus. A hallmark of the initiative is its focus on ventures that, despite their intrinsic high-risk nature, promise substantial returns through the introduction of groundbreaking technological solutions to the market.

Throughout its operational history, the EIC Accelerator has cast a wide net in terms of the types of innovation it supports. This includes a spectrum of scientific and technological achievements ranging from pioneering scientific research-based innovations to pure software enterprises. Software as a Service (SaaS) platforms have also been among the beneficiaries, demonstrating the programme’s versatility in recognizing various forms of innovative digital solutions. Additionally, while the EIC Accelerator is renowned for empowering nascent businesses with a higher risk profile, it has not shied away from engaging with well-capitalized companies that showcase comparatively lower risk yet still meet the programme’s stringent criteria for innovation and potential market impact.

Evaluating Your Eligibility: Is the EIC Accelerator Right for Your Innovative Project?

Each enterprise must undertake a strategic assessment to determine whether to pursue the opportunity of securing a portion of the €17.5 million allocated for the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator funding. This involves a thorough analysis of the enterprise’s risk appetite, informed by the success rates historically associated with the EIC Accelerator programme. Furthermore, prospective applicants should consider the investment of time required for the application process and maintain resilience throughout the potentially prolonged procedural timeline.

The EIC Accelerator is particularly well-suited for ventures that have secured at least six months of operational financial runway, thereby ensuring that these entities are not solely reliant on immediate infusion of capital from this particular funding mechanism. Moreover, it is advantageous for applicant companies to actively exercise due diligence by cultivating relationships with investors and exploring alternate financial resources, thereby creating a multifaceted funding strategy that does not hinge on a single source. Such a diversified approach to financial planning underscores the importance of strategic resource management, which is central to the ethos of the EIC Accelerator programme.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process for the EIC Accelerator Program

Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating the Application Process for the EIC Accelerator Program

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator implements a rigorous and comprehensive three-stage evaluation methodology to assess the merit of applications for funding. This sequential process requires applicants to successfully navigate through each phase before progressing to the next. Only upon the successful completion of the third and final stage will companies be awarded the funding they have applied for.

Stage one of the evaluation process involves the submission of a short application, intended to provide a succinct overview of the proposed innovation project and the applicant’s business. In stage two, if the proposal is deemed of interest based on the initial application, applicants are invited to submit a full application, which includes a more detailed business plan and a pitch deck. The full application undergoes an in-depth review by a panel of independent experts. Finally, stage three consists of an in-person or remote interview, where applicants have the opportunity to present their proposal directly to a jury of specialists and answer any follow-up questions.

This entire process takes place through the European Union’s Funding & Tenders Portal, a centralized online system where all necessary documentation must be submitted in accordance with prescribed cut-off dates for each evaluation round. Every submission is meticulously evaluated, and applicants are provided with an Evaluation Summary Report (ESR) at the conclusion of the process. This document contains the detailed feedback and assessments from the expert evaluators, along with a final recommendation of either GO’—signifying that the application has met the necessary criteria and is approved for funding, or NO GO’—indicating that the application does not qualify for funding within this round.

Applicants are expected to adhere strictly to the portal’s deadlines and ensure that all documentation is uploaded correctly and completely, as failure to comply with these requirements may impact the eligibility and success of their application within the competitive EIC Accelerator funding landscape.

Understanding the Timeline: The Duration of the EIC Accelerator Application Process

The application process for the EIC Accelerator is characterized by its flexibility, with no predefined schedule for completion. The duration from initial submission to potential success varies significantly among applicants. A subset of companies may navigate the process and achieve a favorable outcome in less than six months, demonstrating an expedited progression through the required stages. In contrast, other applicants may experience a more protracted timeline, potentially extending beyond two years. This extension can result from several factors, including the receipt of initial rejections or the need to reapply, as well as the possibility of missing submission deadlines due to existing time constraints within the company.

It is important to note that the EIC Accelerator program typically designates between two to four cut-off dates each calendar year for the submission of applications. These deadlines are pivotal for applicants to consider when devising their strategic plans for the submission of proposals. The intervals between these cut-off dates can influence the overall planning and timing of applications, serving as critical waypoints for companies in their journey through the EIC Accelerator’s competitive selection process. Consequently, applicants must meticulously factor in these deadlines as part of their comprehensive planning to optimize their chances for success.

Timeline and Submission Deadlines for the EIC Accelerator Application Process

Step 1 of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator is designed as an open-ended, rolling phase, allowing prospective applicants to submit their innovative business concepts at their convenience, without being constrained by specific deadlines. Following a successful evaluation in Step 1, candidates are then eligible to progress to Step 2, the cut-off stage, which is distinctly scheduled and occurs on average between 2 to 4 times within a given calendar year. Should applicants clear the rigorous selection process of Step 2, they are subsequently invited to engage in the third and final assessment phase — Step 3. This entails a more personal and in-depth evaluation, traditionally conducted through a video conference platform. This interview is timely orchestrated to take place within a few weeks subsequent to the determination of Step 2 outcomes, ensuring a seamless and efficient advancement through the EIC Accelerator’s comprehensive evaluation process.

Steps to Take and Opportunities for Feedback Following an Unsuccessful EIC Accelerator Application

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator adopts a comprehensive and structured evaluation mechanism which includes a clear policy for dealing with recurrent rejections, known as the 3 strikes, you’re out rule. Under this directive, if a company’s proposal is rejected on three separate occasions across any of the evaluation phases of the EIC Accelerator programme, they will be rendered ineligible to re-submit the same project, or a project with similar objectives and content, until the conclusion of the Horizon Europe framework programme. This policy emphasises the importance of refining and enhancing proposals based on feedback received.

However, this rule also serves to underscore the built-in encouragement for iterative improvement inherent in the EIC Accelerator process. Each applicant is provided with multiple opportunities to refine their innovation project proposals through successive resubmissions, drawing on the feedback from previous rounds to bolster their application’s strength and alignment with the program’s objectives. It is noteworthy that a number of projects that ultimately attain funding from the EIC Accelerator may have previously faced one or more rejections before achieving success. This iterative process demonstrates the EIC’s commitment to fostering innovation and allowing for applicant development, acknowledging that the path to groundbreaking innovation is often paved with initial setbacks and subsequent refinements.

Step-by-Step Guide to the EIC Accelerator Application Procedure

Step 1: Submitting the Preliminary Application Form for the EIC Accelerator Program

The initial phase of the application process for the EIC Accelerator, known as Step 1, requires applicants to meticulously prepare and submit a comprehensive suite of materials. This includes a detailed 12-page written proposal that outlines the innovation project, its objectives, the team’s expertise, and the potential market impact. In addition, applicants must craft a compelling 3-minute video pitch, which serves as a dynamic and visual representation of their proposal, allowing them to effectively communicate the essence of their innovation and business plan. Complementing these components is a concise 10-page pitch deck that visually summarizes the project, emphasizing its unique value proposition and commercial potential.

Applicants also need to complete the standard fields of the online application form, ensuring that all required information is provided in a clear and structured manner. For new entrants to the EIC Accelerator program, the assembly of these application documents typically requires a dedicated effort spanning 2 to 4 weeks, as it is essential that the submitted materials accurately reflect the innovation’s merits and market viability.

Upon submission, the proposal enters a rigorous evaluation phase, where it is assessed by a panel of expert evaluators. To progress to Step 2 of the EIC Accelerator, the application must secure a GO rating from at least three-quarters of the evaluators, signaling that the project satisfies the high standards set for innovation potential, team capacity, and potential impact. Achieving consensus from a minimum of three out of four evaluators is thus crucial for applicants hoping to move forward in the highly competitive EIC Accelerator process.

Step 2: Crafting Your Comprehensive Business Plan for the EIC Accelerator

The second stage of the EIC Accelerator application process entails the development of an in-depth business plan, which typically spans over 50 pages in length, meticulously detailing the strategic direction, market analysis, innovation potential, implementation roadmap, and projected impact of the proposed undertaking. This comprehensive document is supplemented by a suite of critical annexes, including but not limited to:

• A concise, compelling 3-minute video pitch that encapsulates the essence of the business proposition and its unique value proposition.
• A pitch deck, professionally designed to succinctly convey key points of the business plan to stakeholders and evaluators.
• A thorough set of financial documents that provide a transparent view into the company’s current financial health and future financial projections.
• A detailed Freedom to Operate (FTO) analysis, ensuring that the intellectual property rights are clearly identified, and potential legal barriers are addressed.
• A Data Management Plan (DMP), outlining the methodologies for the collection, storage, protection, and sharing of data generated within the project.
• Letters of Intent (LOI), demonstrating market interest and validation from potential customers or partners.
• Curricula Vitae (CV) of the core team members, showcasing the expertise and experience that each brings to the project.

Additionally, applicants are required to fill out the standard fields in the online application form, ensuring that all requisite information is accurately captured.

The meticulous preparation of these documents is a task that applicants typically allocate between 6 to 8 weeks to complete, to ensure that every aspect of the proposal is polished and aligns with the high standards expected by the EIC Accelerator evaluators.

Subsequent to the submission, a panel of three independent evaluators is tasked with a comprehensive review of the application. It is imperative for the project to receive a unanimous GO rating from all three evaluators in order to progress to Step 3 of the EIC Accelerator scheme. This unanimous endorsement serves as a testament to the exceptional quality and potential of the project under consideration.

Step 3: In-Depth Candidate Presentation through the Interview Process with the EIC Accelerator Panel

The Step 3 interview process of the EIC Accelerator is a meticulous and comprehensive evaluation stage, requiring candidates to engage in a direct dialogue either through a video conferencing platform or by attending in person at a designated location in Brussels, Belgium. This critical phase begins with the applicant delivering a concise yet impactful presentation of their innovation and business case, lasting no more than 10 minutes, utilizing the pitch deck prepared and submitted during Step 2 of the application process.

Following this pitch, the applicant is subjected to a rigorous 35-minute question-and-answer interrogation by the EIC Jury—a panel deliberately composed of experts with a variety of backgrounds to ensure a diverse and holistic assessment. Typically, this panel includes five distinguished jury members, but the presence is not limited to these experts alone. The group is augmented by representatives from the European Commission’s European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), as well as EIC Program Managers, all of whom bring their specialized perspectives to the evaluation process.

Applicants are advised to allocate a full two weeks for thorough preparation ahead of this interview, as the stakes are high and the scrutiny is intense. During this period, potential awardees meticulously refine their pitch, anticipate possible questions, and strategize on how to effectively communicate the value of their innovation. It is imperative that every member of the EIC Jury signals their approval—denoted as a GO—for the candidate to be deemed successful and to secure the coveted EIC Accelerator funding, which is instrumental in propelling groundbreaking innovations from the conceptual stage to the market.

Next Steps and Guidance for Successful Applicants: Navigating Post-Funding Procedures with the EIC Accelerator

Upon confirmation of the funding amount sought by the applicant, the EIC Accelerator initiates a thorough due diligence process tailored to either the Grant component or the Equity component. For applicants pursuing Grant funding, this phase involves the meticulous assembly of the Grant Agreement Contract (GAC). It is a critical stage where applicants are required to provide comprehensive documentation for review. This documentation encompasses a detailed financial overview of the company, identification and verification of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO), along with requisite company registration and foundational documents, all of which can be uploaded through the dedicated EIC Accelerator portal.

Simultaneously, the due diligence for the Equity component is spearheaded by the European Investment Bank (EIB). This procedure entails a systematic and interactive evaluation, during which the EIB establishes a direct line of communication with the applicants as well as any co-investors associated with the applicant. The aim is to gain a deep understanding of the business and its stakeholders, thereby facilitating a sound investment decision.

The Equity financing is typically executed through strategic financial instruments that may include, but are not limited to, direct equity investments, convertible notes, or other comparable financial vehicles. However, it is worth noting that the EIC Fund exhibits a preference for participating in larger funding rounds alongside an applicant’s existing investors. This co-investment strategy serves to leverage the collective financial strength and confidence of the combined investor base, thereby enhancing the growth potential of the pioneering enterprise.

Comprehensive Overview of the Training Components Provided to Applicants in the EIC Accelerator Program

Comprehensive Collection of Required Templates for the EIC Accelerator Application Process
The EIC Accelerator Applicant Training Program offers an exhaustive suite of meticulously crafted templates designed to streamline the preparation of both Step 1 and Step 2 submissions for the EIC Accelerator. These templates are enriched with comprehensive instructions, delivered through both textual guidelines and instructional videos. This approach ensures a systematic and clear progression through the application process, allowing the applicant to move efficiently from one step to the next.

Emphasizing the significance of a well-structured framework, these templates serve as an indispensable tool in any grant application, effectively simplifying the writing stage. They provide a solid groundwork, which eliminates the need for applicants to expend time and resources on developing their own format. Consequently, this allows aspiring innovators to direct their attention and efforts towards the core content of their application—articulating the innovation, potential impact, and business strategy—while remaining confident that the structural integrity of their submission aligns with the EIC Accelerator’s high standards and requirements.

Step 1: Detailed Application Templates for the EIC Accelerator Program

The initial phase of the EIC Accelerator application process, Step 1, encompasses a comprehensive suite of five meticulously crafted templates, specifically designed for Google Docs and Google Sheets, and readily accessible via Google Drive. These templates are tailored to address various components of the application, including:

1. The Main Proposal Text Template: Crafted to guide applicants in articulating the core narrative of their proposal, with structured sections to ensure all critical aspects of the project are thoroughly covered.
2. The Video Scripting Template: Developed to assist teams in scripting a compelling and concise pitch video, which is an integral part of the application, by providing a clear framework for presenting their innovative concepts.
3. The Project Overview Template: This template is designed to capture essential project information at a glance, including the project’s acronym, title, and an engaging abstract to succinctly convey the project’s essence.
4. A Reference Guidance Document: This provides users with a detailed guide on how to utilize the templates effectively and adhere to the EIC Accelerator’s submission standards, ensuring that all necessary information is included and well-presented.
5. The Team Table Collection Template: To facilitate the organization of team member information, roles, and contributions, enabling a clear representation of the project’s human resources.

These templates have been carefully developed to streamline the writing and preparation process of the application. By employing these tools, applicants can maintain a cohesive structure and tone throughout their documents. Moreover, the collaborative nature of these templates on Google Drive allows for seamless sharing amongst team members, thus enabling efficient delegation and expediting the preparation process. With these resources at their disposal, EIC Accelerator applicants can enhance the quality and coherence of their submissions, significantly increasing their potential for a successful application.

Step 2 Application Documentation Templates for EIC Accelerator Candidates

Step 2 of the EIC Accelerator application process provides applicants with a cohesive suite of six meticulously designed templates, which are made available through Google Drive for ease of access and collaboration. These templates are specifically tailored for essential components of the application, including the main proposal narrative, Letters of Intent (LOI), the comprehensive Freedom to Operate (FTO) analysis, the detailed Data Management Plan (DMP), a concise yet comprehensive company profile, and an advanced budget planning spreadsheet.

Each template, whether a Google Doc or Google Sheet, is crafted with a focus on user-friendliness, ensuring that the complexity of the content does not compromise the efficiency of the application process. The budget planning document is particularly noteworthy for its embedded formulas, which enable automatic calculations of the final budget figures and associated financial metrics, thereby streamlining the financial planning aspect for applicants. These templates embody a strategic balance, eschewing overly intricate structures in favor of a straightforward format that facilitates an effective and streamlined preparation of the proposal, thereby reducing the administrative burden on applicants.

Step 3: Tailored Business Coaching for EIC Accelerator Candidates

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator program meticulously readies candidates for the Step 3 pitch and interview through a comprehensive and tailored coaching program. Each EIC Accelerator prospect receives personalized attention, ensuring that their preparation is finely tuned to create the most compelling and persuasive presentation possible. This involves a careful crafting of the pitch narrative, taking into account the unique value proposition and strengths of each applicant’s innovation.

In anticipation of the formidable evaluation during the 45-minute interview process, in-depth question and answer sessions are conducted to equip the candidate with the ability to confidently address and navigate through any inquiries that may arise, relating to their project or business. Drawing upon a wealth of insight garnered from numerous years in the field, the coaching encompasses pivotal topics such as the intricacies of the proposed technology or innovation, the robustness of the financial structures, and the strategic governance practices of the company.

Moreover, applicants are provided with two additional templates specifically designed to aid in the structuring and refinement of their pitch. These templates serve as invaluable tools in organizing content effectively and communicating key points with clarity and impact. As a finishing touch to the comprehensive preparation package, a meticulously compiled checklist is made available. This checklist serves as a critical final review tool to ensure all crucial elements of the pitch and anticipated questions have been sufficiently addressed, leaving no stone unturned as the candidate steps confidently into the interview phase of the EIC Accelerator assessment.

Comprehensive Written Guidelines and In-depth Video Tutorials for the EIC Accelerator Application Process

The EIC Accelerator templates are meticulously crafted to include an enriched learning experience via an extensive suite of video training materials. The comprehensive library encompasses over 90 modules, meticulously dissecting each critical facet of the proposal development journey. These instructional units are seamlessly integrated as references within the Step 1 and Step 2 templates, ensuring that they serve as a practical guide to the narrative crafting process.

Applicants can leverage this advanced structure to draw upon the distilled experience and advice of seasoned professionals, thereby obtaining a crystal-clear understanding of the expectations and standards for each distinct section or annex of their proposal. This strategic approach is designed to substantially elevate the likelihood of submitting a successful application.

Moreover, the modular design of our resources empowers applicant teams to distribute the proposal workload efficiently. By enabling multiple team members to concurrently tackle different segments of the proposal, a collaborative and agile proposal development environment is fostered. This advantage is a strategic divergence from the traditional consultancy approach or dependence on a single external grant writer, often resulting in a more streamlined and expeditious proposal generation process. This team-based approach not only reinforces internal expertise but also establishes a formidable pace that surpasses conventional methods, setting applicants on a swift trajectory towards EIC Accelerator success.

ChatEIC: Your Advanced AI-Powered Assistant for Navigating the EIC Accelerator Program

Exclusive to OpenAI subscribers, each participant enrolled in the EIC Accelerator Training program is privileged to unlock the capabilities of ChatEIC, an advanced AI-driven platform tailored to leverage the innovative functionalities inherent in OpenAI’s Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT). ChatEIC is intricately programmed to interact with the comprehensive repository of training materials, ensuring that it can dispense astute advice, meticulously organize proposal frameworks, and skillfully craft preliminary drafts of proposal sections tailored to each applicant’s unique project vision.

Although utilizing this AI assistant as the sole resource for proposal composition is not advisable—preserving the applicant’s authentic voice and vision is paramount—ChatEIC stands as a formidable digital ally. It seamlessly transforms the traditionally arduous proposal-writing endeavor into a highly efficient, synergistic activity. By harmonizing the talents of the human intellect with the efficiency of AI, ChatEIC accelerates the proposal development timeline, ultimately propelling participants towards their goals with greater speed and efficacy.

Maximizing Efficiency with ChatEIC: Your Comprehensive Guide to Navigating and Utilizing the EIC Accelerator’s Interactive Communication Platform

ChatEIC is equipped with advanced document comprehension capabilities, enabling it to meticulously analyze a broad array of uploaded materials, including but not limited to pitch decks, grant applications, comprehensive business plans, and intricate white papers. By delving into the content of these documents, ChatEIC proficiently extracts pivotal information, which it uses to systematically organize and enhance the various sections of a proposal. Moreover, this intelligent tool is adept at fielding queries related to the intricacies of the grant writing process, thereby streamlining the task for applicants and potentially obviating the need for video tutorials and other forms of instructional assistance.

In an effort to adapt to the dynamic regulatory environment of OpenAI’s platform, ChatEIC is designed with flexibility in mind. As such, it operates under certain parameters that may impose limitations on usage, particularly with respect to the volume of prompts it can process within a given hour. These restrictions are contingent on the prevailing policies set forth by OpenAI and are designed to ensure both compliance with regulatory standards and optimal functionality within the EIC Accelerator’s support framework.

Key Benefits of Participating in the EIC Accelerator’s Comprehensive Applicant Training Program

Identifying the Key Individuals with In-Depth Knowledge of Your Company’s Inner Workings

Having engaged the services of professional advisory firms, a multitude of enterprises have voiced two predominant grievances: firstly, the caliber of the deliverables failed to align with their anticipations, and secondly, the burden of composing substantial portions of the grant proposal reverted to their own teams. This scenario stems from a prevalent practice within the grant consultancy landscape, where substantial consultancies frequently delegate the core of the manuscript development to external freelance personnel. These independent contractors, often remunerated at rates not commensurate with the intricacies of the task, may lack the necessary incentive to fully commit to the project’s success and can be subjected to rotation throughout the project’s life cycle. Such dynamics precipitate a fluctuation in the standard of work, adversely affecting the quality of proposals submitted by applicants. Consequently, to ensure the conveyance of their business narrative with the requisite accuracy and depth, applicants find themselves compelled to intervene and author sections of the application. This supplementation becomes necessary due to the incontrovertible insight that the most authentic and comprehensive understanding of a business is inherently possessed by its internal team.

Progress Through the EIC Accelerator at a Pace Tailored to Your Individual Schedule

The EIC Accelerator Training Program offers an invaluable advantage by providing applicants with the flexibility to tailor the proposal development process to their unique requirements. Participants have the autonomy to determine the composition of their team, opting to either distribute the workload among several team members or proceed individually, according to their strategic preference. This customizable approach enables them to align the progression of their proposal meticulously with the rhythm that suits their enterprise’s operational dynamics.

Understanding that the roadmap to submission can be affected by the variability of resubmission intervals and the fluctuation of EIC Accelerator cut-off dates, the Training Program is designed to accommodate these uncertainties. This adaptability ensures that applicants are not compelled to adhere to the fixed schedules imposed by external consultancy services. Instead, they can integrate the proposal preparation seamlessly into their ongoing business activities, ensuring that participation in the EIC Accelerator does not disrupt their standard operational cadence. Consequently, the Training Program stands as an optimal solution for maintaining business continuity while pursuing the remarkable opportunity provided by the EIC Accelerator.

In-Depth Expert Consultation and Advanced Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Writing Support for EIC Accelerator Proposals

The EIC Accelerator Training Program has been meticulously constructed under the expert direction of Dr. Stephan Segler, a seasoned EIC Accelerator consultant renowned for his impressive track record in authoring victorious proposals for the EIC Accelerator program. Dr. Segler extends his vast experience by not only crafting compelling applications but also by offering comprehensive support that encompasses all phases of the application procedure. His mentorship spans the intricacies of creating persuasive videos, scripting engaging pitches, and conducting thorough interview preparations, to navigating the complexities of the due diligence process.

This training program is distinguished by its granular attention to the subtleties and nuances pertinent to the EIC Accelerator application journey, as informed by Dr. Segler’s in-depth understanding and personal successes within the program. It embodies a rich repository of knowledge, capturing the essence of what it takes to emerge successful in this highly competitive arena.

Moreover, the program is complemented by the innovative ChatEIC, an Artificial Intelligence-powered virtual assistant, exclusively accessible to OpenAI subscribers. ChatEIC stands ready to offer instantaneous, round-the-clock feedback and assistance, thereby revolutionizing the support structure for applicants. With its ability to engage in real-time interactions, ChatEIC serves as an invaluable resource for candidates seeking immediate counsel and direction at any stage of their application process.

Enhanced Team-Based Writing Strategies within the EIC Accelerator Framework

The EIC Accelerator Training module is meticulously crafted to facilitate synergistic collaboration among team members. Utilizing the robust capabilities of Google Drive as the central repository for document management, the training ensures that all relevant materials are accessible in real time, thereby enabling concurrent contribution from multiple team members across various sections of the proposal. This method significantly accelerates the proposal preparation process, outpacing traditional consultancy-based approaches.

The training is strategically segmented, with comprehensive instructions tailored specifically to each distinct section of the proposal. This modular design effectively dismantles the traditional knowledge barriers often encountered when engaging external consultancy services, allowing for a more self-sufficient and streamlined application process.

To enhance the collaborative experience further, the training incorporates a synchronized video training platform, which permits all team members to engage in the learning process simultaneously. This shared learning environment is complemented by the immediate availability of all Google Drive templates and resources, alongside the integrated communication tool, ChatEIC, which fosters real-time dialogue and exchange of ideas. The result is a cohesive, efficient, and interactive proposal development journey, empowering teams to produce high-caliber submissions with increased efficiency and alignment.

Track Record of Achievements Under the EIC Accelerator Program

Drawing upon a rich history of prior triumphs across an array of sectors, the EIC Accelerator’s Training Program is meticulously crafted, incorporating comprehensive insights from groundbreaking advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, cutting-edge battery technology, and innovative recycling processes. Our curriculum is founded upon an extensive spectrum of expertise in both software and hardware domains, ensuring that the knowledge imparted is highly transferable and relevant across a multitude of project types. The program provides an in-depth exploration of the specific requirements and milestones associated with varying Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), particularly focusing on the nuanced demands within the MedTech and pharmaceutical fields. It offers a plethora of case studies drawn from disparate industries, which serve to illustrate the practical application of theoretical concepts. Furthermore, the training encompasses an extensive array of business model frameworks, demonstrating their applicability and potential customization to distinct entrepreneurial ventures. Ultimately, the EIC Accelerator Training Program is meticulously designed to be universally applicable, equipping innovators and entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in any project they undertake.

About

The articles found on Rasph.com reflect the opinions of Rasph or its respective authors and in no way reflect opinions held by the European Commission (EC) or the European Innovation Council (EIC). The provided information aims to share perspectives that are valuable and can potentially inform applicants regarding grant funding schemes such as the EIC Accelerator, EIC Pathfinder, EIC Transition or related programs such as Innovate UK in the United Kingdom or the Small Business Innovation and Research grant (SBIR) in the United States.

The articles can also be a useful resource for other consultancies in the grant space as well as professional grant writers who are hired as freelancers or are part of a Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME). The EIC Accelerator is part of Horizon Europe (2021-2027) which has recently replaced the previous framework program Horizon 2020.

This article was written by ChatEIC. ChatEIC is an EIC Accelerator assistant that can advise on the writing of proposals, discuss current trends and create insightful articles on a variety of topics. The articles written by ChatEIC can contain inaccurate or outdated information.

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EIC Accelerator Articles

All Eligible EIC Accelerator Countries (including the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Ukraine)

Explaining the Resubmission Process for the EIC Accelerator

A Short but Comprehensive Explanation of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC’s One-Stop Shop Funding Framework (Pathfinder, Transition, Accelerator)

Deciding Between EIC Pathfinder, Transition and Accelerator

A Winning Candidate for the EIC Accelerator

The Challenge with EIC Accelerator Open Calls: MedTech Innovations Dominate

Go Fund Yourself: Are EIC Accelerator Equity Investments Necessary? (Presenting Grant+)

EIC Accelerator DeepDive: Analyzing the Industries, Countries and Funding Types of EIC Accelerator Winners (2021-2024)

Digging Deep: The New DeepTech Focus of the EIC Accelerator and its Funding Bottlenecks

Zombie Innovation: EIC Accelerator Funding for the Living Dead

Smack My Pitch Up: Changing The Evaluation Focus Of The EIC Accelerator

How Deep Is Your Tech? The European Innovation Council Impact Report (EIC Accelerator)

Analyzing A Leaked EIC Accelerator Interview List (Success Rates, Industries, Direct Submissions)

Steering the EIC Accelerator: Lessons Learned from the Pilot Program

Who Should Not Apply To The EIC Accelerator And Why

The Risk of Presenting all Risks in the High-Risk EIC Accelerator Program

How to Prepare an EIC Accelerator Resubmission

How to Prepare a Good EIC Accelerator Application: General Project Advice

How to Craft an EIC Accelerator Rebuttal: Explaining Grant Proposal Resubmissions

 

Deadlines / EIC Accelerator Cut-Off Dates 2024 and 2025

• Step 1
  • Open now: Apply as soon as possible to be eligible for the next Step 2 submission deadline (get the EIC Accelerator Starter Pack)
    • Proposals are sent for evaluation on the first Tuesday of every month
• Step 2 (closing 17:00 Brussels Time)
  • 1^st cut-off 2025: –
  • 2^nd cut-off 2025: March 12^th 2025
  • 3^rd cut-off 2025: –
  • 4^th cut-off 2025: October 1^st 2025
• Step 3
  • 4^th cut-off 2024: January 13^th to 17^th 2025
  • 1^st cut-off 2025: –
  • 2^nd cut-off 2025: TBD
  • 3^rd cut-off 2025: –
  • 4^th cut-off 2025: TBD

Deadlines / EIC Accelerator Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Cut-Off Dates 2025

• EIC STEP Scale-up Call
  • Open now: Apply anytime

Deadlines / EIC Pre-Accelerator 2025

• EIC Pre-Accelerator Widening via WIDERA
  • 1^st cut-off 2025: September 16^th 2025

Deadlines / EIC Transition Cut-Off Dates 2025

• EIC Transition Open
  • 1^st cut-off: September 17^th 2025

Deadlines / EIC Pathfinder Cut-Off Dates 2024 and 2025

• EIC Pathfinder Open
  • 1^st cut-off 2025: May 21^st 2025
• EIC Pathfinder Challenges
  • 2^nd cut-off 2025: October 29^th 2025

EIC Work Programme

• European Innovation Council (EIC) Work Programme 2025
  • Official Version 29.10.2025
• Annex X of Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025 (EIC Pre-Accelerator)
  • Leaked Version 10.4.2024

EIC Accelerator Challenges

• EIC Accelerator Challenges 2024
  • Human Centric Generative AI made in Europe
  • Enabling virtual worlds and augmented interaction in high-impact applications to support the realisation of Industry 5.0
  • Enabling the smart edge and quantum technology components
  • Food from precision fermentation and algae
  • Monoclonal antibody-based therapeutics for new variants of emerging viruses
  • Renewable energy sources and their whole value chain including materials development and recycling of components
• EIC Accelerator Challenges 2025
  • Acceleration of advanced materials development and upscaling along the value chain
  • Biotechnology driven low emission food and feed production systems
  • GenAI4EU: Creating European Champions in Generative AI
  • Innovative in-space servicing, operations, space-based robotics and technologies for resilient EU space infrastructure
  • Breakthrough innovations for future mobility
• EIC Accelerator STEP Scale-Up Topics
  • Digital technologies, and deep tech innovations
  • Clean and resource-efficient technologies, including net-zero technologies
  • Biotechnologies, including medicinal products on the Union’s list of critical medicines and their components.

EIC Fund Guidelines (Equity)

• EIC Fund Guidelines
  • Version: December 2023

EIC Accelerator Call Page, Proposal Templates and Submission Links

• Step 1: EIC Accelerator 2025 – Short application (HORIZON-EIC-2025-ACCELERATOR-01)
• Step 2: Available in the EIC Accelerator Training Program

EIC Accelerator Jury Members

• List of EIC Jury Members

List of Eligible EIC Accelerator Countries

• All Eligible EIC Accelerator Countries
• EU-27 Member States
  1. Austria
  2. Belgium
  3. Bulgaria
  4. Croatia
  5. Republic of Cyprus
  6. Czech Republic
  7. Denmark
  8. Estonia
  9. Finland
  10. France
  11. Germany
  12. Greece
  13. Hungary
  14. Ireland
  15. Italy
  16. Latvia
  17. Lithuania
  18. Luxembourg
  19. Malta
  20. Netherlands
  21. Poland
  22. Portugal
  23. Romania
  24. Slovakia
  25. Slovenia
  26. Spain
  27. Sweden
• Association Agreements with Legal Effect
  1. Albania
  2. Armenia
  3. Bosnia and Herzegovina
  4. Faroe Islands
  5. Georgia
  6. Iceland
  7. Israel
  8. Kosovo
  9. Moldova
  10. Montenegro
  11. North Macedonia
  12. Norway
  13. Serbia
  14. Tunisia
  15. Turkey
  16. Ukraine
• Transitional Association Arrangements
  1. Morocco
  2. United Kingdom (grant but no equity)
• Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) Linked to Member States
  1. Aruba (Netherlands)
  2. Bonaire (Netherlands)
  3. Curação (Netherlands)
  4. French Polynesia (France)
  5. French Southern and Antarctic Territories (France)
  6. Greenland (Denmark)
  7. New Caledonia (France)
  8. Saba (Netherlands)
  9. Saint Barthélemy (France)
  10. Sint Eustatius (Netherlands)
  11. Sint Maarten (Netherlands)
  12. St. Pierre and Miquelon (France)
  13. Wallis and Futuna Islands (France)

Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) Status

• SME definition
  • Staff headcount < 250
  • Turnover ≤ €50 million
  • Balance sheet total ≤ €43 million

Contact European Innovation Council (EIC) and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) Support

• EIC Support Email: Available in the EIC Accelerator Training Program

 

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This page contains all the relevant and up-to-date information about the EIC Accelerator. You can find the latest EIC Accelerator cut-off dates for the submission deadlines, the current EIC Accelerator submission links, information on EIC Accelerator templates, the EIC Accelerator Challenges, the EIC Accelerator Budget, the Eligible EIC Accelerator Countries and other general requirements here.

About

The articles found on Rasph.com reflect the opinions of Rasph or its respective authors and in no way reflect opinions held by the European Commission (EC) or the European Innovation Council (EIC). The provided information aims to share perspectives that are valuable and can potentially inform applicants regarding grant funding schemes such as the EIC Accelerator, EIC Pathfinder, EIC Transition or related programs such as Innovate UK in the United Kingdom or the Small Business Innovation and Research grant (SBIR) in the United States.

The articles can also be a useful resource for other consultancies in the grant space as well as professional grant writers who are hired as freelancers or are part of a Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME). The EIC Accelerator is part of Horizon Europe (2021-2027) which has recently replaced the previous framework program Horizon 2020.

- Contact Us -

 

EIC Accelerator Articles

All Eligible EIC Accelerator Countries (including the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Ukraine)

Explaining the Resubmission Process for the EIC Accelerator

A Short but Comprehensive Explanation of the EIC Accelerator

The EIC’s One-Stop Shop Funding Framework (Pathfinder, Transition, Accelerator)

Deciding Between EIC Pathfinder, Transition and Accelerator

A Winning Candidate for the EIC Accelerator

The Challenge with EIC Accelerator Open Calls: MedTech Innovations Dominate

Go Fund Yourself: Are EIC Accelerator Equity Investments Necessary? (Presenting Grant+)

EIC Accelerator DeepDive: Analyzing the Industries, Countries and Funding Types of EIC Accelerator Winners (2021-2024)

Digging Deep: The New DeepTech Focus of the EIC Accelerator and its Funding Bottlenecks

Zombie Innovation: EIC Accelerator Funding for the Living Dead

Smack My Pitch Up: Changing The Evaluation Focus Of The EIC Accelerator

How Deep Is Your Tech? The European Innovation Council Impact Report (EIC Accelerator)

Analyzing A Leaked EIC Accelerator Interview List (Success Rates, Industries, Direct Submissions)

Steering the EIC Accelerator: Lessons Learned from the Pilot Program

Who Should Not Apply To The EIC Accelerator And Why

The Risk of Presenting all Risks in the High-Risk EIC Accelerator Program

How to Prepare an EIC Accelerator Resubmission

How to Prepare a Good EIC Accelerator Application: General Project Advice

How to Craft an EIC Accelerator Rebuttal: Explaining Grant Proposal Resubmissions