Section 01
From annual deadline to continuous journey
The Short Proposal is always open. Companies prepare and submit when they are ready, not when a calendar window forces them to compromise on quality.
Section 02
Six predictable evaluation batches
Full Proposals are evaluated in roughly bi-monthly windows: Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov 2026. Predictability replaces the historic 'all or nothing' annual cycle.
Section 03
New technology due diligence
Dedicated technology experts independently assess the innovation, IP position and technical credibility — increasing the weight of substance over storytelling.
Section 04
Shorter Full Proposal
Reduced documentation requirements focus the evaluation on what genuinely differentiates the company: technology, market pull, team and execution.
Section 05
Defence & Dual-Use opening
Following the recent expansion of European innovation programmes, companies developing Dual-Use technologies may now access dedicated EIC instruments, subject to programme rules.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is the EIC Accelerator still blended finance?
Yes — grant up to €2.5M and equity up to €10M remain the headline structure, subject to programme rules and Commission decisions.
Who can apply?
Single SMEs based in EU member states or Horizon-associated countries, developing breakthrough Deep Tech with significant European market and scale potential.
Want this assessed for your company?
Book a confidential 30-minute strategy call with a senior advisor.
Book strategy calleic-accelerator.eu is an independent consultancy. We are not affiliated with the European Innovation Council, the European Commission, or any official EU institution. Content reflects publicly available programme information and may change; final rules are defined by the relevant programme authorities.