Strategic Insights into the EIC STEP Scale Up Call: Funding Opportunities for Innovations in Digital, Clean, and Biotechnologies with a Vision for 2025 and Beyond
EIC STEP Scale Up Call Overview The EIC STEP Scale Up call is focused on funding technologies and innovations in several important areas: Digital Technologies Clean and Resource Efficient Technologies Biotechnologies There is also a budget available to support companies that were selected in earlier EIC Work Programmes. Future Plans for 2025 In 2025, the call will specifically support: Start-ups in Semiconductor Technologies Quantum Technologies This support is part of a commitment to strategic technologies and is aligned with the Chips Act. Additionally, the EIC Accelerator Open call will continue to be available for startups and SMEs. Innovation Prizes and Support Actions The Work Programme includes innovation prizes and other support actions. These actions help manage the EIC effectively and include: Expert Contracts Data Management Communication and IT services Funding Scheme Connections Efforts will be made to connect different funding schemes through: ‘Booster’ grants for Pathfinder and Transition projects The Fast Track scheme for projects from EU programs The Plug-in for projects from national programs New Pilot Call in 2025 The Horizon Europe Work Programme 2025 will introduce a pilot EIC Pre-Accelerator call. This is designed to help early-stage deep tech startups: Develop their technology Improve business readiness Increase investment readiness These startups will be positioned to successfully apply for the EIC Accelerator or other funding sources.