Incubator & Accelerator
EIC Accelerator 2026
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About
The EIC Accelerator 2026 is a flagship EU program designed to support tech startups and SMEs with funding up to €2.5 million in grants and €10 million in equity investment, alongside tailored mentorship and access to a robust network of investors and market partners, making it an ideal opportunity for deep tech startups seeking financial and business growth support.
Benefits
- 💰 Financial Support
- Funding includes up to €2.5 million in grants and €10 million in equity investment.
- 🎓 Mentorship Program
- Access to tailored business acceleration services, including mentoring and guidance.
- 🌐 Network Access
- Connection to investors and market partners within the EU innovation ecosystem.
- 📈 Business Support
- Support for technology validation and commercialization in application environments.
- 🎤 Exposure Opportunities
- Accelerated evaluation process with assessments every two months and simplified application materials.
Eligibility Criteria
- 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
- Open to startups and SMEs from EU member states and Horizon Europe associated countries.
- 🏢 Legal Status
- Must be a legally registered company or an individual planning to establish an SME.
- 💼 Business Stage
- Startups must have innovations with technology readiness levels (TRL) from 6 to 8.
- 💰 Financial Requirements
- Projects must have high demand but high risk, with insufficient private investment.
- 👥 Team Requirements
- Must demonstrate a commitment to scaling and have innovative products, services, or business models.
Participation Commitments
- 📍 Physical Attendance
- Must participate in a pitch interview before the EIC jury.
- ⏰ Time Commitment
- Engagement in the four-step application process, including proposal submissions and agreement signing.
- 🎤 Presentation Requirement
- Must deliver a presentation during the pitch interview stage.
Target Region
Open to startups from EU member states and Horizon Europe associated countries.
Target Sector
Focused on technology innovation and market expansion for startups and SMEs.
European Innovation Council