Applications invited for the European Innovation Council
The European Innovation Council (EIC) and the Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area (WIDERA) programme have joined forces to launch a new initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups in less-developed regions of Europe to apply for EIC Accelerator funding and access complementary support mechanisms.
This joint initiative, specifically designed to unlock the innovation potential of early-stage deep-tech companies from widening countries, offers a unique opportunity for these startups to secure funding and tap into Europe's innovation networks.
Key features of this initiative include:
- **Funding:** Up to €500,000 per company is available to support these startups, although the exact duration of the support or funding is not disclosed. - **Support:** The programme offers intensive support to improve business, investor, and technology readiness, helping participants to successfully apply for EIC Accelerator funding. However, it should be noted that the initiative does not provide specific details about the criteria for selection or eligibility. - **Guidance:** Tailored assistance is provided to help startups secure follow-on funding beyond the initial grant, but it's important to mention that the initiative does not offer tailored guidance to help start-ups secure follow-on funding. - **Additional Access:** Companies can also leverage national and regional support mechanisms, including the Seal of Excellence programmes, although the exact number of companies the initiative aims to help remains undisclosed.
This call aims to boost the innovation capacity of SMEs and startups in widening countries by supporting them through the complex application process for EIC Accelerator funding and increasing their chances to scale and attract investment.
The application process for this call closes on 18th November. For more information, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official EIC and WIDERA websites.
In summary, the joint EIC and WIDERA program forms a strategic effort to bridge gaps in innovation capacity across Europe by empowering promising startups and SMEs in less-developed regions to access vital EU funding and innovation networks.
- By taking advantage of this joint initiative, early-stage deep-tech companies from less-developed regions of Europe can secure up to €500,000 in funding and receive comprehensive support to improve their business, investor, and technology readiness, ultimately enhancing their chances to scale and attract additional investment.
- This collaboration between the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area (WIDERA) programme also offers tailored assistance for companies to leverage national and regional support mechanisms, such as the Seal of Excellence programs, aiding their quest for follow-on funding beyond the initial grant.
