Empowering deep-tech innovators: the new EIC Pre-Accelerator for Widening Countries

Why participate?

For innovators and entrepreneurs in Widening Countries, participation in the EIC Pre-Accelerator is a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between research and market. By joining, startups gain:

• access to EIC Business Acceleration Services, offering mentoring, investor matchmaking, and visibility within the European innovation ecosystem;
• tailored coaching and business support to enhance their commercial strategy and prepare for large-scale funding opportunities;
• a direct pathway toward EIC Accelerator, one of Europe’s most competitive funding programmes for breakthrough innovations;
• improved readiness for private investment, helping companies attract venture capital or national/regional funding.

Who can apply?

The EIC Pre-Accelerator is looking for deep tech innovative SMEs that meet the following criteria:

• headquartered in a Widening Country (e.g., Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Poland, etc.);
• developing a deep-tech innovation validated at TRL 4;
• owning or having access to the relevant intellectual property (IP);
• having a clear go-to-market strategy and a strong ambition to scale up.

If your company fits this profile, the EIC Pre-Accelerator could be the ideal platform to elevate your innovation from the lab to the market

Strengthening Europe’s innovation landscape

This initiative represents a strategic effort to balance innovation capacity across Europe. The EIC Pre-Accelerator contributes to a more inclusive and competitive European innovation ecosystem, ensuring that breakthrough technologies can emerge from every region of the EU.

Our expertise is your advantage

PNO Innovation has extensive experience in applying for EIC Accelerator funding and a strong track record. Our specialists are happy to assist you in identifying opportunities for a successful application and in submitting your application. Please contact us at +31(0)88 838 13 81 or send us a message using the contact form below.