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Innovation Fund Innovation Fund

Innovation Fund

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FOR WHOM?
Companies
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FOR WHAT?
For deploying innovative net-zero technologies
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GRANT BUDGET?
€ 40 billion available between 2020 - 2030

Are you developing breakthrough low-carbon technologies? The EU Innovation Fund is one of the world’s largest funding programmes for innovative low-carbon technologies. It supports highly innovative projects that can bring significant emission reductions and contribute to the EU’s climate goals.

What is the Innovation Fund?

The Innovation Fund is a key EU funding programme focused on accelerating the green transition. Financed by revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the fund supports upscaling of clean energy, industrial decarbonisation, carbon capture, hydrogen, and other climate-neutral technologies.

Who can apply?

The Innovation Fund is open to companies and consortia across the EU, including:

  • Large-scale and small-scale industrial projects
  • Clean tech startups and scaleups
  • Research & development collaborations
  • Renewable energy initiatives

Whether you’re in the early design phase or ready for deployment, your innovation could be eligible for substantial non-dilutive funding.

What costs are supported by Innovation Fund?

The Innovation Fund grant can cover up to 60% of a project’s relevant costs, including:

  • Feasibility studies and pilot projects
  • Capital expenditure (CAPEX)
  • Operating Expenditures (OPEX) directly related to innovation
  • Project scaling and market introduction

The Innovation Fund supports both large-scale projects (over €7.5 million) and small-scale projects (under €7.5 million), each with tailored application procedures.

Why apply for the Innovation Fund?

  • Access to hundreds of millions in EU funding
  • Boost your credibility with investors and partners
  • Contribute to Europe’s transition to climate neutrality
  • Gain international exposure and long-term support

How to apply?

The application process is competitive and highly technical. Successful proposals must demonstrate:

  • Strong greenhouse gas emission reduction potential
  • High degree of innovation
  • Financial and technical maturity
  • Scalability and replicability

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Innovation Fund – FAQ

Some frequently asked questions about the Innovation Fund:
  • What is the Innovation Fund?

    The Innovation Fund is a European funding programme that invests in innovative technologies and solutions contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. It focuses particularly on breakthrough projects in energy-intensive industries, renewable energy, energy storage, and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS).

  • Who can apply for the Innovation Fund?

    Companies, consortia, research institutions, and public organisations working on innovative, emission-reducing projects within the EU or associated countries are eligible to apply.

  • What types of projects are eligible?
    • Large-scale projects: projects with total capital expenditure above € 100 million.
    • Small-scale projects: projects with total capital expenditure between € 2.5 million and € 100 million.
    • Pilot projects: innovative demonstration projects that contribute to scaling up new technologies.
  • What is the funding contribution?

    The Innovation Fund can finance up to 60% of eligible costs, including:

    • Capital investments
    • Operational costs
  • When are the deadlines?

    The Innovation Fund publishes calls annually, usually in the autumn. Deadlines vary depending on the call and the project category (small- or large-scale).

  • How much budget is available?

    For the period 2020–2030, a total of approximately € 40 billion is available. This budget is distributed across multiple calls.

  • What are the main evaluation criteria?
    • Degree of innovation
    • Potential for emission reduction
    • Scalability and replicability
    • Maturity of the project plan
    • Cost efficiency
  • Where can I get support with my application?

    Grant consultancy firms like FirstBlue can support you in preparing and writing your proposal. FirstBlue can also provide support in project management and financial advice & support.

Support in applying for Innovation Fund

Are you looking for a reliable partner to support you in applying for the Innovation Fund? FirstBlue has extensive experience! Our specialists would be pleased to support your project. Please do not hesitate to contact us via info@firstblue.com or fill in the form: