EIC Accelerator

The EIC Accelerator is a flagship European Union funding programme designed to help highly innovative startups and small companies bring breakthrough technologies to market and scale them internationally. It targets projects that are too risky or capital-intensive for traditional investors alone, especially in deep-tech areas such as biotech, AI, clean tech, advanced materials, or space. The programme is part of the European Innovation Council under Horizon Europe and focuses on innovations that can create new markets or radically disrupt existing ones.

What makes the EIC Accelerator unique is that it can provide both grant funding and equity investment. Companies can receive a non-dilutive grant of up to around €2.5 million to support activities such as product development, validation, regulatory approval, or market preparation. In addition, they can receive equity or quasi-equity investment—typically up to €10 million—directly from the EIC Fund to support scaling and market entry. Depending on the company’s maturity and needs, applicants can apply for a grant only, investment only, or a blended combination of both.

The programme is open to startups and SMEs based in the EU or associated countries, and it usually targets innovations that are already beyond the early research stage and close to market readiness. The application process is competitive and takes place in stages: a short proposal to explain the idea and its potential, a full business and technology proposal, and finally an interview with an expert jury. Beyond funding, selected companies also gain access to coaching, mentoring, and investor networks, which helps them grow faster and attract additional private investment.

Further Information and Grant Application Advice

Arrange an initial non-binding meeting to explore your funding opportunities.

SYMBIOS Funding & Consulting
Tel.: +49 (0) 721 8308 2099
E-Mail: info[at]symbios-funding.com

Symbios Funding & Consulting GmbH
Wagnerstr. 17
D-76448 Durmersheim