EIC Accelerator at a glance
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The EIC Accelerator is a funding programme for startups and SMEs developing breakthrough innovations with the potential to scale internationally. EIC Accelerator is part of the European Innovation Council, one of the largest deep tech investors in the EU. The programme offers a unique combination of non-dilutive grant funding and equity investment. It can help you bringing your disruptive technology to the market.
What types of projects are eligible?
The EIC Accelerator has two options in which applications can be submitted: Accelerator Challenges (with pre-defined topics) and Accelerator Open (for projects that don’t match the challenges). Your innovation should have the potential to create or disrupt markets and is in TRL level 6 – 8. Projects must demonstrate a strong business model, market potential, and societal or environmental impact.
EIC Accelerator Challenges
The challenges are pre-defined topics and change every year. In 2026 the Challenges are:
- Advanced Materials for Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Systems
- Alternative Concepts and Key Enabling Technologies for Fusion Power Plants
- Biotech for Regenerating Agricultural Soils
- Boosting the European Critical Raw Materials value chain
- Deep Tech for Climate Adaptation
EIC Accelerator Open
Projects can be in any field of technology.
Who can apply?
Startups and SMEs in the EU can apply.
Funding contribution
Eligible companies can receive up to €2.5 million in grant funding for innovation development and up to €10 million in equity investment. This blended financing model is tailored to meet the needs of early-stage companies facing the critical phase between research and market launch where private funding is often hard to secure.
The application process
The application process consists of a three-stage evaluation: a short application, a full application with pitch deck and business plan, and a final interview with EIC experts. Companies can submit proposals on a rolling basis, with cut-off deadlines announced throughout the year.
What is the European Innovation Council?
The European Innovation Council (EIC) is an innovation programme focussed on identifying, developing and scaling up game changing innovations in the EU. The funding programmes of the EIC are: EIC Pathfinder, EIC Pre-Accelerator, EIC Accelerator, EIC Transition and STEP Scale Up. The EIC has € 6 billion budget and the budget is part of the Horizon Europe programme.
Support in applying for EIC Accelerator?
If your SME is working on a game-changing innovation and seeking for funding, the EIC Accelerator may be the perfect opportunity to accelerate your growth and scale internationally. Our colleagues have supported multiple clients in applying for EIC Accelerator. We can help you with writing a proposal, reviewing your proposal and training for the final interview. Schedule a meeting! Send a mail to info@firstblue.com or call our secretary in the Netherlands via +31 (0)8 495 20 00.
Interested in this programme?
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