Guidelines for Handling EU-Classified Information and Gender Equality in EIC Grants

EU-Classified Information Management

The management of EU-classified information is a critical aspect of the EIC grants, particularly for projects funded under the European Innovation Council (EIC). At the conclusion of the grant, classified information must either be returned or continue to be protected in accordance with the applicable rules. This ensures that sensitive data remains secure and that all participants adhere to the highest standards of compliance. The following protocols must be strictly adhered to:

• Subcontracting Requirements: Any subcontracting of tasks that involve EU-classified information requires prior written approval from the European Commission, the originator of such information. Only entities established in EU Member States or in non-EU countries that have a security of information agreement with the EU (or an administrative arrangement with the Commission) are eligible for subcontracting these tasks. This regulation is designed to maintain a high level of security across all project activities, particularly for those associated with the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder funding initiatives.
• Disclosure Regulations: Disclosure of EU-classified information also necessitates prior written approval from the European Commission. Any unauthorized dissemination could lead to severe ramifications, including loss of funding, and potentially jeopardize future applications for EIC Accelerator grants or EIC Transition funding.
• Facility Security Clearance (FSC): Depending on the nature of the project activities, obtaining a Facility Security Clearance (FSC) may be required before the grant agreement is signed. The Agency evaluates each case and establishes the delivery date during the grant preparation stage. Importantly, no grant agreement can be finalized until at least one beneficiary in the consortium holds a valid FSC.
• Handling Sensitive Project Results: In certain scenarios, outcomes of the project may not require classification but could still be sensitive, necessitating restricted disclosure or limited dissemination for security reasons. This is aligned with the applicable security instructions in the Security Section. In principle, third parties should be denied access to results subject to such restrictions. Disclosure of this information is contingent on prior written approval from the European Commission.
• Security Recommendations: Additionally, the grant and contract agreement may include extra security recommendations as security deliverables. These could encompass establishing a security advisory board, appointing a project security officer, limiting the level of detail shared, or utilizing hypothetical scenarios to mitigate risks.
• Reporting Security Concerns: EIC Awardees must ensure their projects do not fall under national or third-country security requirements that could disrupt implementation or compromise the grant award. Any potential security concerns must be reported to the Agency without delay, thereby ensuring the integrity of EIC funding and project outcomes.

Gender Equality Plans and Mainstreaming

In alignment with the EIC’s overarching goals for inclusivity and equality, relevant EIC Awardees are required to implement measures that promote equal opportunities between men and women throughout the action’s lifecycle. These initiatives should align with their established gender equality plans and aim to foster an environment of equal representation in all stages of project development.

The goal is to achieve a gender balance at all levels of personnel assigned to the action, including supervisory and managerial levels, to the greatest extent possible. This not only aids in meeting EIC Accelerator evaluation criteria but also enhances the overall effectiveness and innovation potential of the project. Studies have shown that diverse teams can lead to more creative solutions and a greater variety of perspectives that can drive successful outcomes. Thus, implementing gender equality measures is not just a compliance obligation but also a strategic advantage in the highly competitive sphere of EU grants for deep tech startups.

Best Practices for EIC Accelerator Applications

For those looking to secure EIC Accelerator funding, understanding the nuances of both EU-classified information management and gender equality is essential. Here are some best practices for ensuring a successful application:

• Thoroughly Address Security Protocols: When applying for EIC Accelerator grants, ensure that your proposal outlines how your project will handle EU-classified information. Adhering to the established regulations will increase your success rate and credibility.
• Emphasize Gender Equality: Clearly demonstrate how your project promotes gender equality. Presenting a well-defined gender equality plan within your application can provide a competitive edge in the evaluation process.
• Seek EIC Accelerator Coaching Services: Utilize coaching services to refine your proposal writing. Experienced coaches can provide valuable insights and feedback that can be pivotal in enhancing your application.
• Understand Funding Eligibility: Familiarize yourself with the EIC Accelerator funding eligibility criteria. This knowledge will enable you to effectively tailor your proposal to meet specific requirements and avoid common pitfalls.
• Keep Abreast of Application Deadlines: Stay informed about the EIC Accelerator application deadline 2025, ensuring that you allocate enough time to prepare a comprehensive and well-thought-out application.

By following these guidelines and integrating robust security measures alongside a commitment to gender equality, EIC Awardees can enhance their chances of success in securing funding through the exciting opportunities presented by the European Innovation Council.