Eurostars is an international funding programme designed to support innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) undertaking collaborative research and development (R&D) projects. The programme helps businesses develop cutting-edge products, processes, or services while working with international partners, accelerating innovation and improving access to global markets.
Unlike many European funding programmes, Eurostars places SMEs at the centre of each project, with the lead applicant required to be an innovative SME based in a participating Eurostars country.
Who can apply?
Projects must satisfy the programme’s international eligibility criteria, including:
- An innovative SME from a Eurostars country must lead the consortium.
- The consortium must consist of at least two independent organisations.
- Partners must come from at least two Eurostars countries, with at least one organisation based in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country.
- SMEs from participating Eurostars countries must account for at least 50% of the total project budget (excluding subcontracting).
- No single participant or country may account for more than 70% of the project budget.
- Projects must last no longer than 36 months.
- Projects must focus exclusively on civil applications.
Funding Available
Funding is provided through each country’s National Funding Body, meaning grant rates and maximum award values vary depending on where each project partner is based.
For UK participants, Innovate UK provides:
- Up to 60% funding for eligible SME project costs.
- Maximum grant of €360,000 per project, shared between UK partners where applicable.
- Large companies and research organisations may participate but must self-fund their involvement.
Applicants should also review any additional national eligibility requirements before applying.
Eligible Projects
Eurostars supports collaborative R&D projects that aim to deliver innovative technologies, products, services, or processes with strong commercial potential. Projects should demonstrate:
- A significant research and development component.
- Clear technical innovation.
- A realistic route to market.
- Commercial impact for participating organisations.
- International collaboration that adds value to the project.
Why Apply?
Eurostars offers innovative SMEs an opportunity to share the costs and risks of R&D while accessing international expertise, new markets, and commercial partnerships. Successful projects benefit from collaborative innovation, increased competitiveness, and support to accelerate the commercialisation of new technologies across Europe and beyond.
