Frequently Asked Questions

While you may have existing data and text from other proposals, it's generally not advisable to use them directly. The EIC Accelerator has specific questions and space restrictions, so you'll likely need to rewrite and tailor the content to fit the application requirements.

The evaluation of Step 2 applications typically takes 3-6 weeks after submission. However, the duration can vary depending on the timing of the Step 3 interviews.

Illustrations help communicate complex ideas quickly and effectively. They capture the attention of evaluators who have limited time to review numerous applications. Use visuals to enhance your storytelling and make your proposal more engaging and memorable.

A strong business plan provides the essential structure and content needed for a compelling grant application. It outlines your business model, market analysis, competitive advantages, and financial projections. Use it as a roadmap to ensure your proposal is comprehensive and persuasive.

Yes, many free resources are available online. Platforms like YouTube and Udemy offer tutorials for graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator or Corel Draw. Dedicate time to learning basic design principles to create impactful visuals for your proposal.

Business plans provide a solid framework for your grant application. They offer insights into structuring your proposal, defining your market, and outlining your financial projections. Look for free business plan examples from consultancies, accelerators, or investment firms to enhance your grant writing skills.

EIC Accelerator applications are evaluated based on their potential impact and alignment with EU priorities. Demonstrating how your project addresses societal challenges and contributes to EU policy goals increases your chances of success. Research relevant EU initiatives and incorporate them into your narrative.

Active involvement from the CEO, CTO, and CFO significantly improves proposal quality. Their combined expertise ensures a comprehensive and well-aligned application. Avoid rushing or outsourcing the proposal entirely; prioritize team collaboration for a stronger outcome.

Prioritize studying business plans to build a strong foundation. Develop your storytelling skills to connect with evaluators. Use illustrations to enhance communication and engage readers. Finally, ensure the entire management team is actively involved in the process.

While there isn't a strictly 'official' current template, a useful starting point is the EASME pitch deck template from October 2017. Keep in mind that this template is somewhat outdated, but it provides a general overview of how a pitch could be structured.

While not explicitly required in every slide with the SlideBean approach, you can add it to the last slide or address it during the Q&A session. The jury will likely ask about it anyway.

The EIC template includes slides such as Title, Company Purpose, Problem & Solution, Value Proposition, Market Opportunity & Risks, Competition, Business Model, Commercialisation & Marketing Strategy, Financial Projections, Team, and Conclusion. It's comprehensive but can be content-heavy.

SlideBean offers a list of successful pitch deck examples, including companies like Airbnb, Uber, and Facebook. These can be a valuable resource for structuring your own EIC Accelerator pitch deck.

The EIC template can lead to overcrowded slides with too much information. This can turn the pitch deck into a text-heavy document, potentially boring the jury and failing to convey a simple, inspiring idea.

The SlideBean approach, which prioritizes storytelling and a leaner structure, is generally recommended. It helps to keep the jury engaged and prevents overwhelming them with too much information.

A captivating pitch is crucial. Even the best business can fail if the jury is bored. Entertainment value, a good storyline, eloquent speakers, and clear communication are paramount.

SlideBean recommends a leaner, more story-driven approach. Their template focuses on Problem, Solution, Product, Market Size, Business Model, Underlying Magic, Competition, Differentiators, Marketing, Team, and Traction & Milestones.

The topic of the funding call is the single most important aspect. It defines what the evaluators are looking for and which companies have the highest chances of success. Make sure your project aligns perfectly with the call's thematic focus.

Yes, some EU grant programs are specifically targeted towards projects related to the Green Deal. These programs aim to support initiatives that contribute to environmental sustainability and climate action. Look for calls that explicitly mention the Green Deal as a priority.

The possibility of resubmitting an application depends on the specific funding call. Some programs have restrictions due to limited cut-off dates or impose freeze periods after a rejection. Check the program guidelines to understand the resubmission policy before applying.

Yes, the EIC Accelerator offers blended financing, which includes both grant funding and equity investment. This combination is designed to support high-risk, high-impact innovations. The equity component is managed separately from the grant.

The application requirements vary depending on the grant. Some grants require a consortium of multiple entities, while others, like the EIC Accelerator, allow single applicants. Check the specific grant guidelines to determine if a consortium is necessary.

The EIC Accelerator has a strong support network of professional writers and expert consultancies. These professionals can assist with preparing a compelling application. Research and contact reputable writers and consultants experienced with EU grant applications.

While EU grants offer significant funding, explore national or local grant programs as well. These alternatives may have less competition and simpler application processes. Look for programs supported by entities like the European Investment Bank (EIB) in your region.

Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) are technologies that drive innovation and competitiveness. Some EU grant programs specifically target projects related to KETs. Check the funding call details to see if KETs are a focus area.

The EIC Accelerator is generally open to companies from EU member states and associated countries. However, some specific calls may have geographical restrictions or preferences. Always verify the eligibility criteria for each individual call.

Some potential changes include separating grant and equity options, creating a VC-Hub for past applicants to pitch, adjusting evaluation criteria for fairness, and simplifying bureaucracy through better use of online forms.

Financial projections, costs, and work packages could be visualized with charts automatically within the application. This would make the application leaner and allow the implementation section to focus more on tasks, risks, and team members.

Instead of adjusting the evaluation criteria, the EIC could create dedicated calls for specific areas like environmental projects (e.g., a Green Deal call). This would ensure fair evaluation within each call and better align funding with political targets.

Keep an eye on official proposal template updates, funding decisions released by the European Union (EU), and any related announcements from the European Innovation Council (EIC). Regularly checking these sources will help you stay informed about the latest developments.

The EIC Accelerator targets startups and Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) that are developing and scaling innovative technologies with the potential for significant impact. The program provides financial and coaching support to help these companies succeed.

EIC Accelerator evaluations sometimes prioritize projects addressing societal challenges, those with female CEOs, or those with a broader EU impact. This is due to government funds adhering to political directives, but it can sometimes overshadow the focus on innovation and financial success.

Separating Grant & Equity means allowing applicants to apply directly for equity funding with an open budget through a pool of private investors, rather than requiring a blended approach. This could provide more flexibility for certain types of projects.

A VC-Hub would create an online environment where past EIC Accelerator applicants can participate in pitch sessions outside of the normal funding process. This could help them secure additional funding and connect with potential investors.

Yes, even without the equity financing, a €2.5 million non-dilutive grant is still a significant opportunity for UK startups and SMEs to fund their innovative projects and growth.

Yes, the UK government has explicitly acknowledged the exclusion of UK entities from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund under Horizon Europe, as stated in official documents.

The grant is non-dilutive funding, meaning you don't have to give up equity in your company. Equity financing involves the EIC Fund investing in your company in exchange for a share of ownership.

Due to Brexit agreements, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund are prohibited from investing in UK companies. This restriction applies under the Horizon Europe program.

One potential solution is to establish an EU subsidiary or parent company, for example, in Ireland. This would allow the EU-based entity to apply for both the grant and equity financing.

Yes, UK companies can explore other funding avenues such as venture capital, angel investors, government grants specific to the UK, and private equity firms to compensate for the lack of EIC equity financing.

No, this restriction specifically applies to the equity financing provided by the EIC Fund under the EIC Accelerator program. Other Horizon Europe programs may have different rules.

The document is referenced as Article 6 on page 21 and is an official declaration from the UK government regarding participation in Horizon Europe.

The current agreement states that UK entities cannot participate in the EIC Fund. Any future changes would depend on renegotiations between the UK and the EU regarding their relationship with Horizon Europe.

If your team lacks video production expertise, consider contracting an external videography team for an on-site project. Alternatively, focus on leveraging the guidance and best practices provided by your consultant to improve your team's capabilities.

A two-stage production process, including a screen test and a real recording, allows for superior results. It enables the creation of a high-quality end product with minimal effort and overhead by identifying and correcting issues before the final shoot.

The editing process is essential for ensuring the highest quality of the final video. It involves colour grading, basic corrections, audio enhancements, and other related aspects to create a polished and professional pitch video.

The editing can be performed by the consultancy, a third-party contractor, or a team member of the startup. The responsibility depends on how it has been distributed in the agreement.

Consultancies should provide a shortlist of best practices, including tutorials, FAQs, tips & tricks, and recommendations for camera settings and lighting. This guidance helps maximize the production quality, especially for teams without prior video experience.

You should review the availability of equipment like cameras and lighting, as well as the skills of your team members. Determine who has experience with video production and what existing footage you can use.

Unfortunately, the trend suggests that reliance on consultants may increase due to the complex application process and the need for specialized skills. The EIC's efforts to simplify the process haven't yet translated into a less consultant-dependent system.