Develop and scaleup innovations: EIC Accelerator
European Innovation Council The EIC Accelerator is a funding programme under Horizon Europe that offers support to start-ups and SMEs that:
- have a innovative, game changing product, service or business model that could create new markets or disrupt existing ones in Europe and even worldwide,
- have the ambition and commitment to scale up,
- are looking for substantial funding, but the risks involved are too high for private investors alone to invest
UK Applicants can only apply for the Grant scheme; a lump sum contribution below € 2.5 million, for innovation activities (TRL 6-8), to be completed within 24 months. For start-ups and SMEs with capacity to scale-up. To be provided only once during the implementation period of the Horizon Europe programme (2021-2027).
The challenges
There are two challenge themes with particular relevance to agri-tech:
Scaling deep tech solutions that will improve soil health and the sustainability, efficiency, and resilience of the European agricultural sector, which spans food, feed and biomass. The priority areas include soils and soil microbiomes, bioremediation technologies, and biofertilisers.
Developing and commercially scaling timely solutions needed across Europe to adapt to key climate risks. By combining deep-tech approaches with Nature-based Solutions, the call encourages hybrid solutions that link ecological restoration, data and technology, and innovative business models for resilience. This challenge includes Climate-smart agriculture: Innovations for resilient food systems as a priority area.
More information and how to apply
You can see information about each specific challenge here. There is full information about the EIC Accelerator, eligibility, and links to information webinars on the EIC website. There are also opportunities for investor engagement and access to wider business support for those within the EU.
Fund Overview
European Innovation Council Related Posts
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Horizon Europe Cluster 6 and Pump Priming: Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment
Defra: Farming Innovation Programme funds (multiple competitions)
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Food and Drink Accelerator from Growing Kent & Medway
