EIC STEP Scale Up Call: Supporting European Startups and SMEs
EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) Scale Up Call The EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) is a significant initiative under the European Innovation Council (EIC) that aims to reinforce the European technological landscape. By fostering a robust environment for innovation, the STEP platform is designed to accelerate the growth of startups and SMEs, enabling them to seamlessly transition from the initial prototype phase to market-ready solutions. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the EIC Accelerator and is pivotal in enhancing the competitiveness of European innovation on a global scale. VI. Business Acceleration Services VI.1 EIC Business Coaches (Direct EIC Services) The EIC Business Coaches provide tailored support to startups and SMEs, guiding them through the complexities of scaling their businesses. With a strong focus on EIC Accelerator funding, these coaches leverage their extensive networks and experience to offer strategic advice, access to funding opportunities, and operational insights that are crucial for business growth. They play a vital role in helping innovators refine their value propositions, navigate the landscape of EU grants for deep tech startups, and enhance their competitiveness. VI.2 EIC Community and Women Leadership Programme This initiative emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community among innovators, with a particular focus on empowering women in leadership roles within the tech sector. The program includes mentorship, networking opportunities, and educational workshops designed to enhance the skills and visibility of women in technology. By encouraging diversity and inclusion, the EIC Community and Women Leadership Programme aims to cultivate a richer innovation ecosystem, ultimately contributing to the EIC Accelerator success rate. VI.3 Investors’ Outreach Activities Through a series of curated events and initiatives, the EIC facilitates direct engagement between innovators and potential investors, vital for securing funding. These outreach activities showcase innovative projects, providing startups with potential pathways to secure EIC funding and establishing critical connections that can lead to future investments. This direct engagement is essential for fostering a thriving investment climate within the European innovation landscape. VI.4 Ecosystem Partnership Programme & Promotion of ESG Reporting The Ecosystem Partnership Programme aims to create synergies among stakeholders in the innovation ecosystem, promoting collaboration between startups, investors, and research institutions. A significant component of this program is the emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting, which plays a vital role in ensuring sustainable business practices. By encouraging startups to adopt best practices in ESG, the EIC is not only responding to the needs of socially-conscious investors but also enhancing corporate transparency and accountability. VI.5 EIC Participation to Trade Fairs in 2026 To boost its visibility and promote its supported innovations, the EIC plans to participate in major trade fairs in 2026. This participation will provide startups with a platform to demonstrate their technologies to a global audience, facilitating international partnerships and market entry. By showcasing the innovations backed by the EIC Accelerator and other EIC initiatives, participating startups can attract attention from international investors and collaborators. VI.6 Global Soft-landing Programme The Global Soft-landing Programme is designed to assist European startups in navigating new international markets. Providing tailored support encompasses local market insights, business development strategies, and connections to local networks. This program is crucial for startups that wish to leverage European deep tech funding opportunities and expand their operations globally. VII. EIC Prizes VII.1 The European Prize for Women Innovators This prestigious award celebrates the achievements of women innovators across Europe, recognizing their contributions to the innovation landscape. It serves to inspire future generations of female entrepreneurs, encouraging the participation of women in innovation and technology. The recognition provided by this prize can significantly enhance the visibility and success of women-led startups, aligning with the EIC’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion. VII.2 The European Capital of Innovation Awards (ICAPITAL) The ICAPITAL awards acknowledge cities that effectively harness innovation to improve the quality of life for their citizens. This recognition encourages urban areas to develop and implement innovative solutions to urban challenges. By highlighting best practices in urban innovation, the ICAPITAL awards foster an environment where cities can share knowledge and resources, ultimately benefiting the broader European community. VIII. Other Actions VIII.1 Honoraria and Expenses of the EIC Board This section outlines the financial compensation and reimbursement policies applicable to members of the EIC Board. Ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of resources is crucial for building trust within the innovation ecosystem and supporting the overall objectives of the EIC. VIII.2 External Expertise for Monitoring, Ethics, and Policy Advice Incorporating external expertise is crucial for effective monitoring and compliance with ethical standards. This initiative emphasizes the need for engaging specialists to provide advisory services on various policy matters impacting the EIC’s operations. By bringing in diverse perspectives, the EIC can enhance its decision-making processes and align its strategies with current and future innovation trends. VIII.3 Communication & Outreach Effective communication and outreach are fundamental for increasing awareness of the EIC’s initiatives, such as the EIC Accelerator application process and the various funding opportunities available. The EIC actively works to disseminate information through online platforms, workshops, and webinars to engage potential applicants and stakeholders. Strategies for effective outreach include sharing success stories and case studies of previous EIC Accelerator funding recipients, highlighting the impact of EIC support on their growth trajectories. In conclusion, the EIC Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) is an essential driver for innovation in Europe, providing comprehensive support to startups and SMEs. By fostering an environment conducive to growth through programs like the EIC Accelerator, investors’ outreach, and targeted community initiatives, the STEP platform is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of European innovation.