A New Launchpad for Deep-Tech Startups in Widening Countries
The European Innovation Council (EIC) has launched the EIC Pre-Accelerator, a new pilot initiative. Funded under the Horizon Europe WIDERA Work Programme 2025, the programme has a total budget of €20M, and is aimed at early-stage deep-tech startups in so-called widening countries. These are EU Member States and associated countries with emerging innovation ecosystems. The programme helps startups in these countries to bridge the critical gap between lab validation and market readiness.
There won’t be a new call before 2027. So don’t miss this opportunity!
Available funding and support
The initiative provides grants of €300K to €500K in non-dilutive funding. This funding helps startups advance their technologies from TRL 4 to TRL 5/6. It can be used for prototype development, validation in relevant environments, and for strengthening business and investment cases.
In addition to funding, the participants gain access to the EIC Business Acceleration Services (BAS). These services include coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities with investors and corporates. Support is provided for a maximum duration of two years.
What the funding opportunity offers:
- €300K–€500K grants, covering 70% of eligible project costs
- Tailored business support services and strategic mentoring
- Fast-track eligibility for the EIC Accelerator, streamlining the path toward blended finance support
- A Seal of Excellence for proposals that meet the evaluation thresholds, but that cannot be funded due to budget limits. This seal gives access to BAS and alternative funding opportunities.
Who is eligible?
The call is open to single applicants. These can be startups, SMEs or small mid-caps and must be based in widening countries. They also need to have innovations protected by intellectual property, along with a clear roadmap for development and commercialization.
The eligible widening countries (2025) are:
| EU Member States | Associated Countries |
| Bulgaria | Albania |
| Croatia | Armenia |
| Cyprus | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| Czech Republic | Faroe Islands |
| Estonia | Georgia |
| Greece | Kosovo (potentially)* |
| Hungary | Moldova |
| Latvia | Montenegro |
| Lithuania | North Macedonia |
| Malta | Serbia |
| Poland | Tunisia |
| Portugal | Turkey |
| Romania | Ukraine |
| Slovakia | |
| Slovenia |
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence. More information
Deadline and application
The call is open until 18 November 2025. More information on eligibility criteria and the application process is available on the official EIC portal.
How can FFUND help?
FFUND has a proven track record in supporting startups and SMEs with successful applications. Our team can help refine your business case, strengthen your application, and increase your chances of success in this highly competitive process.
