Empowering Technological Advancement in Europe through the EIC STEP Scale Up Call and Strategic Investment in Emerging Digital, Clean, and Biotechnologies
EIC STEP Scale Up Call and Support for Emerging Technologies The EIC STEP Scale Up call is a crucial initiative aimed at promoting technologies and innovations within the fields of digital technologies, clean and resource-efficient technologies, including net-zero technologies, and biotechnologies. This initiative not only focuses on areas aligned with the Chips Act and health emergency responses but also sets aside a budget to support follow-on investments for companies previously selected under earlier EIC Work Programmes. Target Areas for Investment In 2025, there will be a particular emphasis on supporting start-ups involved in semiconductor and quantum technologies. The STEP Scale Up call will foresee larger investments targeting these strategic technologies, in alignment with the objectives of the Chips Act. The EIC Accelerator Open call will also remain available, providing opportunities for startups and SMEs, including those focused on quantum and semiconductor technologies. Innovation Prizes and Supporting Actions The EIC Work Programme includes the promotion of various innovation prizes and additional supporting actions that facilitate the functioning of the EIC. These actions include expert contracts, data management, communication, and IT services, all designed to bolster the EIC’s effectiveness. Maximizing Linkages Between Funding Schemes Efforts will be made to maximize the linkages between different funding schemes through proactive management and innovative approaches. This includes the introduction of ‘Booster’ grants for EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition projects, the Fast Track scheme to expedite access for successful projects from EU programmes to the EIC Accelerator, and the Plug-in initiative for accessing projects stemming from national programmes. Upcoming EIC Pre-Accelerator Call In alignment with Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025, a pilot EIC Pre-Accelerator call is anticipated. This call aims to support early-stage deep tech startups in developing the necessary technology, business, and investment readiness. The goal is to equip these startups with the capabilities required to successfully apply for funding from the EIC Accelerator or other sources. Notably, beneficiaries under the Pre-Accelerator call will be eligible for certain Business Acceleration Services and the Fast Track to the EIC Accelerator. This comprehensive framework of support mechanisms underscores the EIC’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement across Europe.
A Comprehensive Guide to the Investment Process of the EIC Fund from Proposal Submission to Final Outcome
EIC Fund Investment Process If you want to get money from the EIC Fund, there are a few steps. What Happens First? First, the EIC Fund looks at your proposal. This is called due diligence. After that, they will make a decision about the investment. Connecting with InvestEU If you are interested and agree, your proposal information will be shared with the InvestEU partners. They will think about giving you Venture Debt support. How Does EIC Choose Proposals? The EIC chooses which proposals to support based on the quality of the proposal. Experts will review it, and everyone will have a fair chance. First Come, First Served The EIC STEP Scale Up call uses a “first come, first served” method. But they will also look at how much money is available for the whole year. Budget Limits In the first half of the year, they will not recommend more than 70% of the total budget. They will keep track of how much money is available. Proposal Assessment Your proposal will be judged based on certain criteria. The EIC Jury might ask about specific parts of your proposal during the interview. Outcomes from the Jury The Jury will recommend one of three outcomes for your proposal: GO and Sovereignty (STEP) Seal: Your proposal meets all criteria and is recommended for investment. But, the final investment amount may change after further checks. If your project is approved, you will receive the Sovereignty (STEP) Seal and get access to support services to help your business grow.
Unlocking the Future of Innovation: A Comprehensive Guide to the EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform STEP Scale Up Call for Groundbreaking Technologies in Digital, Deep Tech, Cleantech, and Biotech
EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call Do you have a great technology that can change the game in Europe? If your company focuses on digital and deep tech, cleantech, or biotech, we want to hear from you! Here are some questions to think about: Does your company have an innovative technology that can be developed and sold in Europe? Have you already received some money and now need more to grow quickly and become a leader? Is there a lot of risk in making your technology successful, making it hard to find financing from regular investors? If you answered yes to all these questions, then the EIC STEP Scale Up call might be perfect for you! This call offers lots of money to help exciting new technologies grow. It aims to boost Europe’s growth in industries that really matter. Why Apply? The EIC STEP Scale Up call is a fantastic chance for small and medium-sized businesses with big ideas in important technology areas. It gives you both money and support to help your innovative solutions succeed. Selected companies could get between EUR 10 million to EUR 30 million. This funding can help speed up how fast you develop and sell your technology, product, or service. With this money, you’ll be able to shake up existing markets and create new ones!
Understanding the EIC STEP Scale Up Call: Key Features, Regulatory Framework, and Additional Resources for Strategic Technology Development in Europe
EIC STEP Scale Up Call The EIC STEP Scale Up call is an important part of the EIC Accelerator program. This program is established under the Horizon Europe Regulation, specifically Article 48. It was updated by Article 17(2) of the STEP Regulation. Key Features The EIC STEP Scale Up call includes similar rules about indirect management and parent or holding companies as the regular Accelerator call does. Guidance Note There is guidance available that explains some parts of the Regulation (EU) 2024/795. This regulation is about the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP). More Information The STEP regulation also changes several other regulations, including Directive 2003/87/EC and various EU regulations from 2021 and 2013. Reference For more details, you can check the official document here: EU Regulation 2024/795.
A Comprehensive Guide to EIC Accelerator Funding and Its Eligibility Criteria for European Companies Seeking Investment Opportunities
EIC Accelerator Funding: Overview Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for funding, you must check Annex 2 for specific conditions. It’s important to avoid relying on technology from non-EU countries to protect the EU’s interests and security. This call focuses on technology areas where the EU wants to reduce dependencies. Who Can Apply? Companies receiving funding must not be controlled by any non-associated third country. This means that if a company is based outside the EU, it can’t have a controlling influence on your company. Funding Details The EIC STEP Scale Up call has a budget of EUR 300 million for 2025, which may increase to EUR 900 million for the years 2025-2027. If there is any unused money, it will go to the EIC Accelerator Open call first. Investment Support Funding will come as equity investments managed by the EIC Fund, not as grants. You can apply for an investment between EUR 10 million and EUR 30 million. The goal is to co-invest in funding rounds that aim for at least three to five times the amount you are requesting. Each investment’s terms will be discussed individually to meet your company’s needs while aligning with EIC goals. Conclusion If you’re interested in applying, make sure to understand the conditions and prepare for a significant investment process. This funding can help grow your company while supporting the EU’s strategic interests.
Comprehensive Examination of EIC Programs Focusing on Innovation Support Risk Assessment and Collaborative Open Access Initiatives
EIC Programs Overview EIC Accelerator The EIC Accelerator helps support innovative ideas that are high risk but have a chance to succeed. Proposals for this program are reviewed through remote evaluations and interviews. They are scored simply as a “GO” (proceed) or “NO GO” (do not proceed). EIC STEP Scale Up The EIC STEP Scale Up focuses on promising companies that are working on important technologies. This includes businesses that have already received help from EIC. The goal is to assist these companies in securing larger amounts of funding to help them grow even more. Open Access and Intellectual Property The EIC promotes a policy of open access to scientific publications. This means research results should be available for everyone to see and use. They also want to encourage the use of research findings from projects they support. EIC Pathfinder For EIC Pathfinder projects, the EIC may ask teams to share their results at any stage of the project. This includes sharing early findings to help inspire other projects and collaborations within the EIC community. The EIC aims to promote sharing and collaboration to maximize the impact of supported projects.
Strategic Insights into the EIC STEP Scale Up Call: Funding Opportunities for Innovations in Digital, Clean, and Biotechnologies with a Vision for 2025 and Beyond
EIC STEP Scale Up Call Overview The EIC STEP Scale Up call is focused on funding technologies and innovations in several important areas: Digital Technologies Clean and Resource Efficient Technologies Biotechnologies There is also a budget available to support companies that were selected in earlier EIC Work Programmes. Future Plans for 2025 In 2025, the call will specifically support: Start-ups in Semiconductor Technologies Quantum Technologies This support is part of a commitment to strategic technologies and is aligned with the Chips Act. Additionally, the EIC Accelerator Open call will continue to be available for startups and SMEs. Innovation Prizes and Support Actions The Work Programme includes innovation prizes and other support actions. These actions help manage the EIC effectively and include: Expert Contracts Data Management Communication and IT services Funding Scheme Connections Efforts will be made to connect different funding schemes through: ‘Booster’ grants for Pathfinder and Transition projects The Fast Track scheme for projects from EU programs The Plug-in for projects from national programs New Pilot Call in 2025 The Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025 will introduce a pilot EIC Pre-Accelerator call. This is designed to help early-stage deep tech startups: Develop their technology Improve business readiness Increase investment readiness These startups will be positioned to successfully apply for the EIC Accelerator or other funding sources.
Comprehensive Overview of Eligibility Requirements and Unique Conditions for EIC Accelerator Module Funding in Strategic Technology Areas
EIC Accelerator Module: Eligibility and Specific Conditions The applicable admissibility and eligibility conditions are detailed in Annex 2 unless otherwise stated in this call. Specific Conditions In order to achieve the expected outcomes, and safeguard the Union’s strategic assets, interests, autonomy, and security, it is imperative to avoid a situation of technological dependency on a non-EU source. This requirement arises within a global context that necessitates the EU to take proactive measures to build on its strengths, while simultaneously conducting a comprehensive assessment to address any strategic weaknesses, vulnerabilities, and high-risk dependencies that might jeopardize the attainment of its ambitions. The scope of this call has been delineated following the identification of priority technology areas where there exists an exigent need to reduce or prevent strategic dependencies of the Union, in alignment with EU strategic and security interests. Consequently, pursuant to Article 136 of the Financial Regulation, recipients of the Accelerator funding under this call must not be directly or indirectly controlled by a non-associated third country or a legal entity established in a non-associated third country. Additionally, in cases of investment support, specific safeguards may be instituted within the investment agreement, as indicated in the section on Economic Security. Support for Funded Proposals The EIC STEP Scale Up call offers a total indicative budget of EUR 300 million for the year 2025, with expectations that this figure will escalate to EUR 900 million for the period 2025-2027. Any funds that remain unutilized from this budget will be allocated with priority to the EIC Accelerator Open call. Support will be rendered in the form of equity-only investments managed by the EIC Fund. It is critical to note that applicants to this call will not receive a grant component. The program offers significant financial backing, and applicants should seek an investment within a range of EUR 10 million to EUR 30 million, intended to co-invest in a funding round aiming for at least three to five times the amount of the requested EIC contribution. The specific terms of each investment are meticulously evaluated and negotiated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the EIC Fund Investment Guidelines. This procedural approach ensures that the investments are tailored to the unique needs of your company while remaining aligned with the overarching objectives of the EIC.
Navigating the Comprehensive Investment Procedure of the European Innovation Council Fund from Proposal Submission to Final Jury Recommendation and Funding Allocation
Understanding the EIC Fund Investment Process The process of securing investment from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund involves multiple stages, beginning with due diligence and culminating in a decision by the EIC Fund Investment Committee. An essential component of this process is the investment agreement, which outlines the conditions of the funding. Proposals and Venture Debt Support If you have expressed an interest in receiving support and provided your consent, pertinent information from your proposal may be shared with the relevant InvestEU implementing partners. This step is critical for those seeking Venture Debt support as it aligns your project with potential funding opportunities. Selection Criteria for EIC Fund Investment The determination of whether your proposal will be selected for potential investment by the EIC Fund rests on a comprehensive assessment of its merits, conducted by leading experts in the field. The EIC ensures that all eligible proposals undergo an open and fair competitive process. The EIC STEP Scale Up call adopts a “first come, first served” methodology for evaluating proposals. However, it is important to recognize that juries will consider the overall budget availability throughout the full calendar year. Within the initial six months, juries are limited to recommending proposals that account for no more than 70% of the year’s available budget. The Jury will be kept informed about budget availability, including any additional amounts that may arise from previous awards that were not fully utilized. Award Criteria and Jury Assessment Proposals are assessed based on specific award criteria, as detailed in Table 8 of the EIC documentation. During the assessment phase, the EIC Jury may decide to focus the interview on particular elements of your proposal, depending on their initial evaluation. Outcomes of the Jury Recommendation Following the interview and the overall assessment of your proposal, the EIC Jury will recommend one of three possible outcomes: GO and Sovereignty (STEP) Seal: If your proposal satisfies all evaluation criteria, it is recommended for potential equity investment. In this case, the Jury may offer observations for the EIC Fund regarding the investment amount or other pertinent considerations that may influence the investment decision and its management. It is crucial to note that the investment amounts authorized in the Commission Award Decision are contingent upon the successful completion of due diligence and negotiation by the EIC Fund, adhering to the Investment Guidelines. Consequently, the investment amounts may be subject to reduction or rejection by the EIC Fund, provided that justified reasons are presented. Moreover, projects that receive a positive recommendation will also be awarded the prestigious Sovereignty (STEP) Seal, which grants access to various Business Acceleration Services, further enhancing the support available for the development and scaling of your innovative endeavors.
Empowering European Innovation Through the EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform STEP Scale Up Call: A Comprehensive Guide for Transformative Companies in Digital Deep Tech Cleantech and Biotech Sectors
EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call The EIC Strategic Technology for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call represents an unprecedented opportunity for innovative companies that possess transformative technologies tailored to advancing the strategic technology landscape of Europe. This initiative is especially directed toward entities engaged in digital and deep tech, cleantech, or biotech sectors. Eligibility Criteria Innovative Technology: Does your company have a game-changing innovative technology focused on the development and commercialization of a strategic technology for Europe? Initial Investment: Has your company already secured an initial investment and is now looking to raise a major funding round to scale up rapidly and become a global leader? Significant Risks: Does the successful commercialization and scaling of your technology or innovation represent significant risks that preclude sufficient financing from market investors? Companies that affirmatively answer all aforementioned questions are encouraged to consider the EIC STEP Scale Up Call as a potential launchpad to success. The call has been designed to provide substantial funding aimed at catalyzing groundbreaking innovation in strategic technologies, thereby enhancing Europe’s economic, industrial, and technological prowess. About the STEP Scale Up Call This call has been introduced as a pilot action following the STEP Regulation, which seeks to address a critical market gap in financing deep tech scale-up companies across Europe. Its primary objective is to inform decisions regarding future support mechanisms for strategic technology initiatives. Why Should You Apply? The EIC STEP Scale Up Call presents a unique opportunity tailored for ambitious scale-up companies (SMEs and small mid-caps) that are at the forefront of innovation within Europe’s critical technology sectors. Financial and Strategic Support Selected companies under the EIC STEP Scale Up Call are eligible to receive investments ranging from EUR 10 million to EUR 30 million. Such financial backing can substantially accelerate the development and market launch of various technologies, products, or services. The financial investment provided can empower your company to disrupt established markets and pave the way for the emergence of new ones, positioning your innovation prominently within the competitive landscape.