What is the EIC Pre-Accelerator?

The EIC Pre-Accelerator is a new pilot instrument launched by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under Horizon Europe. Its purpose is to strengthen the innovation and investment-readiness of early-stage deep-tech startups located in “widening countries” — EU Member States or associated countries with less developed innovation ecosystems. It acts as a bridge programme, helping promising deep-tech ventures mature in terms of technology, business model and investor readiness so they can successfully access follow-up funding such as the EIC Accelerator or private investment.

Objectives and Rationale

What’s Funded / Scope of Activities

• Technology maturation / validation (e.g. moving from TRL 4 → TRL 5/6).

• Market / business readiness (research, value proposition, competitor analysis, business modelling).

• Investor readiness (financial modelling, pitch decks, due diligence preparation).

• IP, regulatory and certification (patents, approvals, standards).

• Validation in real-world / test environment (pilot deployments, prototype tests).

• Project management and subcontracting (where eligible).

Evaluation and Selection

✅    Proposals are assessed in a single-stage process.

✅    Evaluation is based on innovation, market potential, team, business model, risks and implementation plan.

✅   Only top-ranked proposals are funded, but those above the quality threshold may receive a Seal of Excellence and BAS access.

Benefits and Opportunities

1  |  Non-dilutive funding (up to €500,000).

2  |  Acceleration support (coaching, mentoring, networking).

3  |  Fast Track into EIC Accelerator for strong performers.

4  |  Seal of Excellence as a quality mark, with BAS access.

5  |  Credibility and visibility with investors and partners.

6  |  Ecosystem integration into the EIC community.

7  |  Strategic de-risking of technology and market readiness.

Risks and Considerations

⚠️   Highly competitive selection.

⚠️   Co-funding burden of 30 %.

⚠️   Need to deliver within 24 months.

⚠️   Fast track is conditional, not guaranteed.

⚠️   Pilot nature means some uncertainty.

⚠️   Geographic restriction to widening countries.

Strategic Tips for Applicants

➜   Start early, as the deadline is fixed.

➜   Provide clear evidence of TRL 4.

➜   Define measurable milestones and KPIs.

➜   Showcase team strength and execution ability.

➜   Address risks and mitigation plans.

➜   Show credible co-funding capability.

➜   Subcontract where appropriate, even if mono-beneficiary.

➜   Use Seal of Excellence as leverage if not funded.

➜   Plan from the start how your project could progress into the EIC Accelerator.

If you have any questions relating to EIC Pre-Accelerator or wish to discuss how Grant Funding might benefit your business, please get in touch with the ABGi Team and a representative will get back to you to discuss your unique needs and explain how we can assist.