Deadline: September 16, 2025
Are you ready to take your high-tech startup to the next level? The EIC Pre-Accelerator 2025, a pilot funding initiative under WIDERA, offers an exciting opportunity for early-stage deep-tech startups in expanding countries. With grants of up to €500,000, this programme helps you validate your technology, refine your business model, and prepare for major funding rounds like the EIC Accelerator.
The pilot EIC Pre-Accelerator call is a joint initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the WIDERA programme (Widening participation and strengthening the European Research Area). Its aim is to boost the innovation potential of early-stage deep-tech startups in widening countries.
Benefits
- Up to €500,000 in grant funding (70% of eligible costs covered)
- Fast-track your startup from TRL 4 to TRL 6
- Boost your market readiness and investor appeal
- Direct pathway to the EIC Accelerator or private investment
Eligibility
This funding is open to one-person SMEs from Horizon Europe Widening countries developing deep-tech innovations in the fields of physical, biological, or digital technologies. These startups need to:
- offer breakthrough innovations with the potential to create entirely new markets or transform existing ones (at least Technology Readiness Level (TLR) 4).
- hold the necessary Intellectual Property Rights to ensure freedom to operate and protect the innovation effectively.
- have a clear vision on the intended pathway to market readiness.
- have the ambition and commitments to scale up.
Application
They have limited spots available for the startup selection. Apply now by sending your pitch of maximum 15 slides and get started on securing your funding.
Submit to [email protected]
For more information, visit EIC Pre-Accelerator.
