Frequently Asked Questions

You can find examples of successful abstracts, titles, and acronyms in the Community Research and Development Information Service (CORDIS) database and on the EIC Accelerator call page. These resources offer valuable insights.

The title is extremely important as it's often the first thing evaluators see. A strong title can create a positive first impression and encourage them to delve deeper into your proposal. It sets the stage for your entire application.

It should be a balance of both. While highlighting the technical aspects (USPs) is important, clearly stating the broader business or societal impact is crucial for demonstrating the value and relevance of your project to the EIC.

While not mandatory, a project title that aligns well with the acronym can create a more cohesive and memorable brand for your project. Consider how the acronym and title can complement each other.

While not explicitly stated, aim for a concise and impactful title. Shorter titles are generally easier to remember and understand. Focus on clarity and conveying the essential information efficiently.

Thoroughly research existing projects in your field to identify gaps and opportunities. Emphasize the novel aspects of your technology and its specific advantages over existing solutions in your project title.

Your title should highlight the unique selling points (USPs) of your product, clearly identify the product itself, and indicate the expected impact on the industry or Europe. Use descriptive adjectives to showcase what makes your product stand out.

Extensive validation of both the technology and, especially, the business model is crucial for an EIC Accelerator application. The jury wants to see proof of customer interest and potential revenue streams.

The EIC Accelerator seeks innovations building on scientific discovery or technological breakthroughs ('deep tech') that require significant funding over a long timeframe. These innovations often struggle to attract financing due to high risks and long timelines.

If your revenue stream is unproven, customer interest is uncertain, or the market is newly created, the EIC jury will likely be less interested in funding your project. They prefer projects with existing validation.

Based on experience, companies that are unable to obtain financing outside of the EIC Accelerator have a lower chance of success in the program. External validation is a positive signal.

The EIC Accelerator uses the term 'patient capital' to describe funding for innovations that require a long timeframe before generating returns. These innovations often struggle to attract financing due to the extended period involved.

Having a complicated and innovative technology coupled with a clear, proven, and simple commercial strategy is actually a good approach for the EIC Accelerator. The jury prefers simplicity and validation in the business model.

While the EIC Accelerator aims to fund disruptive innovations, the reality is that projects with very high risk profiles are often less attractive to the EIC jury. They tend to favor projects with a medium risk profile and some level of market validation.

While the technology should be innovative and complex, the EIC Accelerator places a strong emphasis on a clear, proven, and simple commercial strategy. A validated business model is crucial for securing funding.

The EIC Accelerator evaluation process consists of three steps. Steps 1 and 2 focus on the innovation and technology aspects, while Step 3 interviews place a strong emphasis on financial and commercial validation.

The EIC Accelerator, funded by the European Commission and European Innovation Council, provides grants and equity financing (up to €17.5 million total) to SMEs and startups. It targets disruptive innovations, particularly in the DeepTech space, to help them scale up.

Letters of Intent are statements of intent from potential Suppliers, Customers, or Distributors expressing their interest in your project. These letters demonstrate market validation and show that there's real-world demand for your innovation, making your proposal more compelling.

The evaluation panel typically consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds. Expect that roughly three out of four evaluators will have a business background, while only one will possess a technical or scientific background. Keep this in mind when framing your proposal to appeal to a broader audience.

Yes, definitely! Recognition through prices, awards, features in media outlets, or other forms of acknowledgement validates your innovation. It provides external proof of your project's potential and increases its attractiveness to evaluators.

Letters of Recommendation are endorsements from key partners and stakeholders, such as regulatory agencies, decision-makers, or thought leaders. These letters add credibility to your project and demonstrate support from influential figures in your field, boosting your application's strength.

A highly experienced and capable team is vital for securing funding. Evaluators assess your team's work experience, relevant projects, education, and support network. Highlight your team's strengths and expertise to instill confidence in your project's execution.

Absolutely. Evaluators prefer projects with long-term potential that can be expanded further within the next decade. Demonstrate that your project has scalability and can generate sustained impact beyond the immediate funding period.

Yes, projects that bring not only financial but also social benefits to the EU are highly favored. Emphasize the positive social impact of your project, such as job creation, environmental sustainability, or improved quality of life, to enhance your application's appeal.

Before you spend too much time on your proposal, make sure your project aligns with the types of industries that typically receive funding. Check out the resource 'What Types of Industries Receive Funding?' to get a better understanding of funding priorities and eligibility requirements. This can save you time and effort in the long run.

While not strictly essential, having existing financial backing from sources other than the SME Instrument, such as your own revenues, a parent company, or private investors, significantly strengthens your application. It demonstrates confidence in your project and reduces the perceived risk for the funding organization.

The market segment you're addressing is a crucial factor. Evaluators look for projects targeting promising markets characterized by growth, substantial size, and limited competition. A well-defined and attractive market significantly increases your chances of securing funding.

A self-explanatory image or table, along with its caption, should convey its meaning without requiring extensive explanation in the text. It should support or deepen a point already made, rather than introducing a completely new concept. Ensure the caption clearly describes the content and its relevance.

Use the main color to simplify navigation through sections and subsections. It should make it easy to differentiate between different parts of the proposal. However, ensure it doesn't distract the reader from finding the headers or understanding the text.

Aim to include an image or table on each or every other page of Document 1. This helps break up the text and makes the content easier to digest. Ensure each image or table is relevant to the section and self-explanatory, with a clear caption.

Consider adding a watermark only to the bottom half of the page to make it stand out more. This avoids coloring the entire page and potentially distracting from the text. The key is to keep the watermark subtle and unobtrusive.

Avoid using full-page photographs with backgrounds as watermarks, as they can be too distracting. Also, ensure your watermark is related to the proposal content and doesn't undermine readability. Keep the opacity low and the information minimal.

Stick to pleasant, consistent colors that don't distract from the text. Blue and green are good choices. Avoid bright pink or yellow as main colors. Use one main color and an optional secondary color consistently for headers, stylized text, bullets, and captions to create a professional look.

Graphics with transparent backgrounds are ideal for watermarks. Consider using images of your prototype, renderings, stylized concept illustrations, or your company logo. These can add professionalism without overwhelming the page.

It's generally better to create new images and tables specifically for your proposal. Existing ones might not fit the color scheme, have low resolution, or use unsuitable font sizes. Reproduce market projections, charts, and other graphics to ensure high quality.

Watermarks can enhance your proposal if used subtly. Choose graphics with transparent backgrounds and very low opacities (2-7%). Ideal images include prototypes, renderings, or logos. Ensure the watermark doesn't reduce readability or distract from the content.

Consistent formatting is crucial for a professional look and increases your chances of success. Use colors, watermarks, and image placement consistently throughout the proposal. This demonstrates attention to detail and makes your proposal easier to read and understand.

The first video call (2-2.5 hours) will cover key aspects of your project, including innovation, market analysis, target customers, potential EU challenges, financial projections, and your business model. This comprehensive discussion helps us understand your project thoroughly.

After receiving all the necessary information, we will thoroughly review your project details. We will then use this information to develop a compelling proposal tailored to your specific needs and objectives.

Don't worry if you don't have everything immediately. Provide as much information as possible before the call, and we can discuss any gaps and how to address them during our conversation.

Yes, we will provide templates for the Letters of Support to ensure they contain the necessary information and are formatted correctly. These templates will simplify the process of obtaining these crucial endorsements.

We require full CVs and pictures of the 3 project leaders and the founders of the company to showcase the team's expertise and experience. This information helps build credibility and demonstrates the strength of the team behind the project.

Yes, absolutely. The Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) ensures that all information shared during our discussions and through provided materials is kept strictly confidential and used only for the purpose of evaluating your project.

The initial video call is estimated to take between 2 to 2.5 hours. This allows ample time to thoroughly discuss all the key aspects of your project and gather the necessary information.

Letters of Support (LOS) are statements from interested customers, influential supporters, suppliers, institutions, or regulatory agencies. They demonstrate external validation and interest in your project, strengthening its overall appeal and feasibility.

Please provide any visual materials or documents that are relevant to your project or company. This includes pictures, links to videos, your website, a list of past clients, publications, awards, and magazine features. These materials help us visualize and understand your project's context.

Yes, both parties will sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before the initial video call to protect sensitive information. Details about the NDA will be provided via email. This ensures confidentiality during our discussions about your project.

The EU requires companies to cover 30% of the project costs to ensure they have the means to complete the project. This demonstrates the company's ability to secure additional investments or generate revenue.

Phase 1 is funded with a flat fee of €50,000. This funding is specifically for performing a feasibility study to assess the project's viability.

Securing the remaining 30% is crucial for project success. Without it, you may face challenges in completing Phase 2 and achieving your project goals, potentially impacting the overall outcome.