EIC Accelerator.
Start-ups and SMEs with high-risk technological innovation. Grant component of up to €2.5 million, with a possible equity component. The next full-application deadline in 2026 is 4 November, following a positively evaluated short application.
Large enterprises are not eligible for the Accelerator grant
Horizon Europe.
Research and innovation under specific topics. Large enterprises can take part, often in an international consortium.
Amount and deadline are set by each call
Innovation Fund and LIFE.
The Innovation Fund supports innovative decarbonisation, up to 60% of relevant costs. LIFE covers environment and climate.
Large enterprises too, subject to the terms of each call
IPCEI and programme status.
IPCEI projects go through national selection and European coordination. The programmes have no single deadline and no universal support amount.
First, select the specific cycle
Eligible costs.
- Research and innovation under specific topics. Large enterprises can take part, often in an international consortium.
What to check before deciding.
- Large enterprises are not eligible for the Accelerator grant
- Costs, the project start and other aid must comply with the instrument's rules.
Programme radar. The LIFE SAP 2026 and Innovation Fund NZT 2025 deadlines have passed. Current status is checked per specific topic.
How we prepare the project.
First we check the activity, the size of linked enterprises, the location, the costs and the start date. Then we align the budget, own funds and the evidence this instrument requires.
During preparation we agree the responsible people, documents and deadlines. After approval we track procurement, costs, reporting and indicators. See how we manage implementation.
Eligibility check
activity, company size, location, start date
Budget and evidence
costs, own funding, evidence
Application
responsible people, documents, deadlines
Decision
the competent authority decides on the award
Implementation
procurement, costs, reports, indicators
Sources and review date.
Reviewed: October 2026. The current call, its amendments and the official documentation prevail.