EIC Accelerator 2026 - Short proposal
The EIC Accelerator funds SMEs and start-ups to scale up deep tech innovations with grant, equity, and business acceleration support.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: January 7, 2026 | March 4, 2026 | May 6, 2026 | July 8, 2026 | September 2, 2026 | November 4, 2026 | December 16, 2026 | December 17, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to €2.5M grant (TRL 6–8); €0.5M–€15M equity investment; blended finance available; project duration typically 12–24 months.
Summary: Supports SMEs and start-ups to scale up deep tech innovations through grant, equity, and business acceleration services.
Key Information: Proposals must demonstrate at least TRL 5 and can be submitted under Open or Challenge topics.
Description
The EIC Accelerator supports highly innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), start-ups, and, in exceptional cases, small mid-caps, to develop and scale up breakthrough technologies and game-changing innovations. The program targets “deep tech” innovations—those based on advanced scientific discovery or technological breakthroughs—that require significant, long-term funding and are often considered too risky for private investors alone.
Applicants may seek grant funding, equity investment, or a combination (blended finance), along with tailored Business Acceleration Services. The EIC Accelerator is open to all fields (“Open”) and also offers targeted “Challenges” in strategic areas. Proposals must demonstrate that the innovation has been validated in a relevant environment (minimum Technology Readiness Level 5).
