EIC Accelerator – an opportunity for startups and SMEs

Designed to bridge the gap between ambitious ideas and market realities, the EIC Accelerator is a game-changer for businesses aiming to disrupt industries or create entirely new markets.

Date: 7. 01. 2025

A flagship programme under Horizon Europe, EIC Accelerator offers unparalleled support for start-ups and SMEs looking to develop groundbreaking innovations and scale up their operations.  

What Makes the EIC Accelerator Unique?

The EIC Accelerator provides a mix of grant funding and equity investments tailored to meet the diverse needs of innovative companies.  

Grants of up to €2.5 million help fund innovation activities, including the development and demonstration of market-ready technologies (TRL 6-8), with the goal of completion within 24 months. For companies ready to scale, equity investments ranging from €0.5 million to €10 million - or even higher through the STEP Scale-Up scheme - offer critical financial backing to help businesses grow.  

In addition to funding, the EIC Accelerator provides extensive Business Acceleration Services (BAS), including coaching, mentoring, training, and access to global networks of investors, corporates, and innovation ecosystems. These services ensure that beneficiaries have the tools and connections to thrive in highly competitive markets.  

Who Can Apply?

The EIC Accelerator is open to:  

  • Start-ups and SMEs, including spin-offs, that have innovative ideas with significant market potential.  
  • Small mid-caps (up to 499 employees) seeking equity funding to rapidly scale their operations.  
  • Entrepreneurs planning to establish SMEs with disruptive innovations.
  • The programme particularly welcomes applications from female-led start-ups and SMEs, supporting diversity in the innovation ecosystem.  

Application Process

The application process is designed to identify and support the most promising projects through a rigorous but efficient selection process:  

  1. Short Proposal Submission: Applicants submit a concise summary of their project, including a pitch deck and video presentation.  
  2. Full Proposal Submission: Successful applicants are invited to submit a detailed business plan, pitch deck, and video pitch.  
  3. Jury Interview: Shortlisted candidates present their innovations to an EIC jury, ensuring only the most impactful projects move forward.

For projects that meet the criteria but are not immediately funded, the programme awards a Seal of Excellence, facilitating access to alternative funding sources.  

Let Tiko Pro Be Your Guide

Navigating the application process for the EIC Accelerator can be complex, but with Tiko Pro’s expertise, you don’t have to do it alone. From crafting compelling proposals to preparing for jury interviews, we’re here to help you maximize your chances of success.  

We help you align your project with the EIC's priorities, highlight unique selling points, prepare supporting documentation, and craft a scalable commercial strategy that resonates with evaluators and investors. Our expertise ensures that your innovation is presented as high-risk, high-reward, and market-ready.

With our guidance, you’ll build a professional project identity that showcases your team’s strengths and ambition. By focusing on topic relevance, technical rigor, and a robust commercial roadmap, we help transform your ideas into a standout proposal. Let Tiko Pro take the complexity out of the process and maximize your chances of success with the EIC Accelerator. 🚀

📈Ready to scale your innovation?

👉 Visit Tiko Pro to learn more about how we can support your journey with the EIC Accelerator. Let’s turn your bold ideas into impactful realities. 🚀

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