Guidelines on EU Sanctions and Eligibility for EIC Funding
Important Information Regarding EU Sanctions and Official Guidelines Official Journal vs. EU Sanctions Map Please note that the EU Official Journal contains the official list of all sanctions imposed by the European Union. In cases of conflicting information, the content of the EU Official Journal prevails over that of the EU Sanctions Map. This distinction is essential for anyone engaged in international trade, investment, or compliance activities linked to EU operations. It is a crucial reminder for all stakeholders—whether businesses, legal entities, or individuals—to refer to the EU Official Journal for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding sanctions and related matters. Compliance with these sanctions is not merely advisable; it is legally required. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including fines or restrictions on doing business in EU member states. Moreover, understanding the context of these sanctions is vital for entities that may wish to engage in new projects or collaborations, such as those seeking funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC). For example, startups seeking EIC Accelerator funding must ensure that their business operations and partnerships align with EU sanctions to be eligible for grants and financial support. Eligibility of Israeli Entities for EU Funding According to the Commission guidelines No 2013/C 205/05, there are specific criteria concerning the eligibility of Israeli entities and their activities in the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967 for grants, prizes, and financial instruments funded by the EU. Published in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU C 205 of 19.07.2013, pp. 9-11), these guidelines have been in effect since 2014. It is imperative for applicants—especially those interested in EIC funding opportunities such as EIC Accelerator grants—to review these guidelines thoroughly. Understanding the nuances of funding eligibility ensures compliance, preventing any potential roadblocks during the application process. This is especially important for deep tech startups and organizations interested in EU grants for innovation, as non-compliance can disqualify them from much-needed financial support. Furthermore, applicants must recognize that the EIC Accelerator, which provides equity-free grants and non-dilutive funding for startups, has its own set of evaluation criteria. These criteria can be affected by an applicant’s compliance with EU sanctions and the guidelines regarding territorial eligibility. For startups aiming for success in the competitive landscape of European funding, it is recommended to engage with EIC Accelerator coaching services. These services can provide vital insights into ensuring compliance, preparing compelling EIC Accelerator applications, and understanding the best practices for proposal writing. Not only can this help improve the chances of securing an EIC Accelerator grant, but it can also enhance overall project viability in accordance with EU regulations. In light of upcoming opportunities such as the EIC Accelerator application deadline for 2025, applicants should also stay informed about any changes to guidelines and ensure their project’s alignment with funding eligibility criteria. Additionally, reviewing EIC Accelerator case studies can shed light on successful projects and provide actionable insights for your own proposal submission. As part of Horizon Europe EIC initiatives, the EIC Accelerator offers various funding pathways for innovation, including the EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition, which complement the objectives of the EIC Accelerator. By understanding the relationships between these funding instruments and adhering to EU sanctions and guidelines, applicants can significantly improve their chances of obtaining the necessary funding to turn innovative ideas into successful realities.