EIC Pre Accelerator
Grant Value: €300,000 – €500,000
Programme: European Innovation Council
Closing date: 18 November 2025
Introduction
The EIC Pre‑Accelerator is a pilot grant programme under Horizon Europe’s WIDERA Work Programme 2025, designed to support deep-tech startups and SMEs in Widening countries (regions with historically low Horizon Europe participation). It provides early-stage companies with €300,000–€500,000 in grant funding (lump sum, covering up to 70% of eligible costs) to mature technologies from TRL 4 to TRL 5–6, refine the business model, and strengthen investment readiness.
This programme also grants access to Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, workshops, and direct entry opportunities to the EIC Accelerator Fast Track or national funding opportunities via the Seal of Excellence mechanism.
The EIC Pre‑Accelerator is designed as a strategic entry point to the EIC Accelerator, helping startups close early-stage technology gaps, strengthen their commercial strategy, and prepare for larger-scale investment. It focuses on boosting deep-tech innovation in underrepresented regions, aiming to level the playing field by aligning strong innovation potential with improved market readiness and investor confidence.
Eligibility
- Single applicants only – must be a startup, SME, or small mid-cap.
- Legally established in a Widening country (EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country with low R&I participation) Examples: Poland, Portugal, Greece, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovakia, Turkey, Ukraine, etc.
Innovation Requirements:
- Developing a deep-tech solution with strong market potential.
- Technology must be at TRL 4 or above (lab-validated).
- Clear commercial ambition and potential for disruption or new market creation.
Additional Conditions:
- Must have IP ownership or rights to use the technology.
- Must commit to exploiting results in Europe and show potential for scale-up.
- Companies cannot apply as part of a consortium.
Award & Project Duration
- Award: €300,000 – €500,000 (70% funded).
- Project Duration: Up to 24 months.
Key Dates
- Closes: 18th November 2025.
