European Innovation Council
Government·European Union·6 programs
The European Innovation Council is Horizon Europe's deep tech arm, funding everything from early-stage research consortia (Pathfinder) through proof-of-concept maturation (Transition) to grant-plus-equity scale-up finance for single startups and SMEs (Accelerator). Open to any field of technology, including AI and software.
What European Innovation Council funds
EUR 1-10 million of direct equity or quasi-equity with no grant, for companies scaling rapidly; the only EIC Accelerator route open to small mid-caps of up to 499 employees.
Grant component below EUR 2.5 million combined with EUR 1-10 million of direct equity or quasi-equity from the EIC Fund; not open to UK applicants.
Grants of up to EUR 4 million for early-stage, high-risk technology research, requiring a consortium of at least three independent legal entities; the 2026 round has closed.
Grants of up to EUR 4 million against pre-defined EIC Challenge topics; unlike Pathfinder Open, single applicants are permitted.
Lump sum grant below EUR 2.5 million for a single startup or SME to complete TRL 6-8 innovation activities within 24 months, with no equity taken.
Grants of up to EUR 2.5 million to validate technology and build business readiness, open only to projects building on results from an eligible prior EU-funded project.