European Innovation Council (EIC) Pre-Accelerator 2025 (up to €500,000)

Are you ready to take your high-tech startup to the next level? The EIC Pre-Accelerator 2025, a pilot funding initiative under WIDERA, offers an exciting opportunity for early-stage deep-tech startups in expanding countries. With grants of up to €500,000, this programme helps you validate your technology, refine your business model, and prepare for major funding rounds like the EIC Accelerator.

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About European Innovation Council Pre-Accelerator

Opportunity Details

The pilot EIC Pre- Accelerator call is a joint initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the WIDERA programme (Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area). Its aim is to boost the innovation potential of early-stage deep-tech startups in widening countries.

Benefits of European Innovation Council Pre-Accelerator

  • Up to €500,000 in grant funding (70% of eligible costs covered)
  • Fast-track your startup from TRL 4 to TRL 6
  • Boost your market readiness and investor appeal
  • Direct pathway to the EIC Accelerator or private investment

European Innovation Council Pre-Accelerator Requirements

This funding is open to one-person SMEs from Horizon Europe Widening countries developing deep-tech innovations in the fields of physical, biological, or digital technologies. These startups need to:

  • offer breakthrough innovations with the potential to create entirely new markets or transform existing ones (at least Technology Readiness Level (TLR) 4).
  • hold the necessary Intellectual Property Rights to ensure freedom to operate and protect the innovation effectively.
  • have a clear vision on the intended pathway to market readiness.
  • have the ambition and commitments to scale up.

Application Date and Process

They have limited spots available for the startup selection. Apply now by sending your pitch of a maximum 15 slides and get started on securing your funding. Submit to [email protected]

Application Deadline

16 September, 2025

Scholarship Application Portal

View details of European Innovation Council Pre-Accelerator

Apply for European Innovation Council Pre-Accelerator

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