EIC STEP Scale Up Call for Funding Innovative Technology in Europe
EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call Does your company have a game-changing innovative technology focused on the development and commercialisation of a strategic technology for Europe in digital and deep tech, cleantech or biotech? If so, you are potentially on the brink of transforming entire industries and contributing to Europe’s technological sovereignty. 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? At this critical stage, you need robust financial backing to turn your groundbreaking ideas into reality and maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving market landscape. Does the successful commercialisation and scaling of your technology/innovation represent significant risks that mean that it cannot be sufficiently financed from market investors? Traditional funding avenues may not fully understand or appreciate the potential rewards and risks associated with deep tech innovations, which is why the EIC STEP Scale Up call is specifically designed to bridge this gap. If you answered yes to all these questions, then the EIC Strategic Technology for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up call could be your launchpad to success. This initiative provides substantial funding to fuel groundbreaking innovation in strategic technologies, propelling Europe’s economic, industrial, and technological competitiveness. As part of the Horizon Europe EIC framework, this new call has been introduced as a pilot action following the STEP Regulation to address critical market gaps in financing deep tech scale-up companies in Europe and to inform decisions on future support. Why Should You Apply? The EIC STEP Scale Up call presents a unique opportunity for ambitious scale-up companies—small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small mid-caps—with innovative breakthroughs in Europe’s critical technology areas. It offers a powerful combination of financial and strategic support, designed to propel your groundbreaking solution to the forefront of these sectors and enhance your likelihood for EIC Accelerator success. Companies selected under the EIC STEP Scale Up call can receive investments ranging from EUR 10 to EUR 30 million. This investment can significantly accelerate the development and market launch of your technology, product, or service. With this funding, you’ll gain the power to disrupt established markets and forge new ones. Additionally, the potential for equity-free grants for startups makes this opportunity especially appealing, as it allows you to scale without sacrificing ownership. The EIC funding is not only about financial support; it also encompasses invaluable guidance and access to a pan-European network of experts, investors, and strategic partners. The inclusion of coaching services aimed at helping you navigate the complexities of scaling a company can be game-changing. Understanding how to apply for EIC Accelerator funding can put you in a favorable position to secure the necessary resources to expand your operations effectively. Eligibility Criteria and Application Process Eligible applicants for the EIC STEP Scale Up call include SMEs and small mid-caps that have already demonstrated a significant market impact with their innovative products or services. Companies must showcase a clear path to commercialisation and articulate a compelling case for why their technology is not just innovative, but also essential for Europe’s future competitiveness. To take full advantage of this funding opportunity, understanding the EIC Accelerator evaluation criteria is crucial. Applications will be assessed based on their innovation potential, market opportunity, and the strength of the management team. The EIC Accelerator success rate varies, but thorough preparation can significantly improve your chances. As you prepare your application, consider best practices for EIC Accelerator application writing. Clear and concise communication of your value proposition, business model, and market analysis will be vital. Engaging with potential partners and gathering relevant case studies can also strengthen your proposal and showcase the tangible impacts of your innovation. Next Steps and Strategic Considerations To move forward, start by reviewing the EIC STEP Scale-Up guidelines thoroughly and consult the EIC Accelerator application deadline for 2025 to ensure your submission is timely. Engage with mentors or advisors who have experience with EU innovation funding to refine your approach. Explore the difference between EIC Transition funding and EIC Accelerator funding to determine the best fit for your specific needs. This call not only represents an opportunity for funding but also a chance to join a dynamic community of innovators focused on shaping Europe’s technological landscape. As deep tech startups continue to emerge, the EIC STEP Scale Up call stands as a beacon of hope, designed to provide the necessary resources and support to ensure your company thrives in a competitive global marketplace.