EIC pre-accelerator 2025: funding opportunity for deep-tech startups in widening countries

What is the EIC pre-accelerator?

The EIC pre-accelerator supports deep-tech innovators in advancing their solutions, validating them in real-world environments, and refining their go-to-market strategies. Selected startups will strengthen their innovation maturity and significantly improve their chances of securing future funding. This may include follow-up applications to the EIC Accelerator or attracting private investment.

Funding overview

• Grant amount: €300,000 to €500,000 (lump sum)
• Funding rate: 70% of eligible costs covered. The remaining 30% must be co-funded by the applicant.
• Total budget: €20 million, supporting up to 50 startups
• Application process: Single-stage submission through the Funding & Tenders Portal

Who can apply?

This opportunity is open to:

• Single-company SMEs
• Organizations legally established in a widening country
• Startups developing deep-tech innovations in physical, biological, or digital domains

What are widening countries?

Widening countries are EU Member States and Associated Countries with lower participation rates in Horizon Europe. These include, for example, Portugal, Greece, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Slovakia, and others. Supporting innovation ecosystems in these regions is a key European priority.

Key dates

• Call opens: May 6, 2025
• Application deadline: September 16, 2025

All proposals must be submitted through the official Funding & Tenders Portal. Applications will be evaluated by independent experts.

What can you expect to achieve?

Through the EIC pre-accelerator, selected startups will:

• Validate technologies at TRL 5–6 in relevant environments
• Conduct in-depth market research and improve their value proposition
• Secure intellectual property protection
• Strengthen their business model and prepare to scale
• Become better prepared to apply for the EIC Accelerator or attract public and private funding

This program is a strategic opportunity within Horizon Europe that helps deep-tech startups in widening countries accelerate growth and increase their impact.

How PNO can support you

We specialize in helping innovative startups secure competitive European funding. Our consultants offer tailored support throughout the EIC pre-accelerator process. This includes guidance on project design, business model validation, investor readiness, and proposal development. Our goal is to maximize your chances of success and help you bring your innovation to market across Europe.

Get in touch

Contact our experts today to prepare your application for the EIC pre-accelerator 2025. We are here to provide professional guidance and support at every stage.