Horizon Europe is a multi-billion euro EU funding programme designed to strengthen research and innovation. One component of particular interest to startups is the EIC Accelerator, which provides both grants and equity capital.
EIC Accelerator: Conditions of participation and benefits
The EIC Accelerator is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and, in particular, startups that meet the following criteria:
They have an innovative, game-changing product, service or business model that could create new markets or disrupt existing ones in Europe and even worldwide.
The ambition and commitment to expanding is strong.
They are looking for substantial funding, but the risks involved are too high for private investors alone.
Support is usually provided in the form of mixed financing. In addition to grant funding, startups receive venture capital, which is intended in particular for activities that are very close to market launch. In exceptional cases, it is also possible to apply for a grant only. Such financial assistance is granted up to a maximum of 2.5 million euros (funding rate 70 per cent). The amount of equity capital ranges between 0.5 and 15 million euros. Startups from Hamburg that have benefited from the programme so far include traceless and Inifinite Roots. Applications can be submitted at any time; the programme will run until 2027. Further information is available here.
If you would like to learn more about the EIC Accelerator, you can also register here for a compact online workshop taking place on 16 September.
