Who can apply to the EIC Accelerator?

Single start-ups and SMEs (including spin-outs) and small mid-caps (up to 499 employees) established in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe associated country. Mid-caps can apply for the investment component only. Natural persons or legal entities intending to set up an SME may also apply.

Can a non-EU startup (for example from India) apply?

Yes. Applicants from third countries may relocate their company to an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe associated country to become eligible. This must be completed before submitting the full proposal (Step 2). UK applicants can apply only for the 'grant only' scheme.

How much funding is available?

A grant component below ₹26.25 crore plus an equity investment of ₹10.5 crore–105 crore via the EIC Fund (blended finance). Grant-only and investment-only options are also available; higher investment amounts are available under STEP Scale Up.

What does the grant cover and over what period?

Innovation activities at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6-8, to be completed within 24 months. The grant is a lump-sum contribution provided once during the Horizon Europe programme period.

What is the application process?

Three stages: (1) a short proposal (12-page form, up to 10-slide pitch deck, 3-minute video) submitted any time and batched for evaluation monthly; (2) a full 20-page proposal at fixed 2026 batching dates; (3) a face-to-face interview with the EIC Jury.

What is a Seal of Excellence?

Proposals that reach the minimum threshold of 13/15 at the remote evaluation stage but are not selected for funding receive a Seal of Excellence (and a STEP seal for Challenges) to help secure funding from other sources.

EIC Accelerator

By European Innovation Council

Up to ₹23.8CrRolling Applications

Quick Answer

EU deep-tech scaleup funding: grant up to ₹26.25 crore plus up to ₹105 crore optional equity. Non-EU startups eligible by relocating to the EU.

Funding amount: Up to ₹23.8 Cr
Funding type: Grant
Provider: European Innovation Council
Application deadline: Rolling
Location: International

Grant providers

Provider

European Innovation Council

European Union

Application Process

1
Short proposal
Submit a 12-page form, up to 10-slide pitch deck and a 3-minute video; submitted any time and batched monthly.
You
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How to apply

Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.

1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.

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EIC Accelerator

EIC Accelerator

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