The Complementarity of Basic Science and Innovation: Insights from the EIC
The European Innovation Council (EIC) exemplifies the strong complementarity between basic science and its application to innovative solutions. It is crucial for Europe to maintain and further develop an excellent foundation in science and knowledge to ensure a sustainable future. The intersection of scientific research and practical innovation not only enhances the European economy but also fortifies its global position in technological advancements.
In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, the younger generation envisions a society that is respectful of the environment, characterized by clean energy, sustainability, and a circular economy. These aspirations resonate deeply with the objectives of the EIC, which aims to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Industries are also searching for new opportunities to innovate, expand, and enhance energy security, further necessitating a solid commitment to outstanding scientific research.
Achieving these aspirations requires a foundational commitment to basic science. This foundational research acts as the bedrock upon which exceptional innovations are built. As noted by Ben Feringa, an esteemed ERC Scientific Council Member and Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry, “We need excellent science, because that means excellent innovation.” His remarks highlight the imperative of collaboration between institutions like the EIC and the European Research Council (ERC), as they work towards shared goals of scientific excellence and innovation.
Practical applications of this vision can be seen in the work of numerous innovative companies. For example, Beres Seelbach, Co-founder and co-CEO of Onomotion, outlines how integrating scientific principles in urban mobility has led to significant advancements. Onomotion’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in European cities by replacing diesel vans with electric cargo bikes through the concept of containerisation. The support from EIC funding, including EIC Accelerator and EIC Transition grants, has been instrumental in transitioning from prototype to mass production, demonstrating the real-world impact of robust scientific backing and innovative approaches.
The EIC provides various funding opportunities tailored to various stages of development, from the EIC Pathfinder for early-stage innovators to the EIC Accelerator for startups and SMEs ready to scale. EIC Accelerator funding is particularly pertinent, as it provides non-dilutive funding options crucial for deep tech startups. For many small businesses, the question of how to apply for EIC Accelerator funding becomes paramount, given its potential to fuel groundbreaking projects.
The EIC’s success rate and the evaluation criteria for applications are designed to maintain the integrity and impact of the funded projects. Startups and SMEs seeking EIC Accelerator grants must approach their proposals with a strategic mindset, focusing on best practices for EIC Accelerator application. This involves a clear demonstration of innovation, market potential, and alignment with European objectives for sustainability and growth. Coaching services offered by EIC can also enhance the quality of submissions, providing startups with invaluable insights into proposal writing and submission processes.
Additional funding options available through the EIC include the EIC STEP Scale-Up initiative, which focuses on scaling innovative business models. These funding streams not only empower startups to achieve their goals but also contribute to Europe’s broader economic landscape. Moreover, the Horizon Europe EIC framework facilitates collaboration across borders, allowing for the pooling of resources and expertise essential for tackling global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation.
In conclusion, fostering a landscape where basic science and innovation thrive is critical for paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for Europe. By leveraging the support of EIC grants and initiatives, combined with a commitment to scientific excellence, European startups can drive transformative changes that resonate across various sectors. Together, through partnerships and investments in research and innovation, we can address the pressing challenges of our times and build a better future for generations to come.