Directly Applying for Phase 2 Posted on March 19, 2019March 18, 2020 By Stephan Segler, Ph.D. I am talking to a lot of startups regarding EU funding and I frequently get asked if it is possible to apply to Phase 2 of the SME Instrument directly. The answer is: Yes. Technically you can but in reality, most startups do not have enough data (market, business plan, strategy, financial projections, users etc.) for the application. On top of that, the chances to receive Phase 2 funding after a completed Phase 1 are twice as high. My suggestion is always to get Phase 1 first since it is easier to finance and then use the financial support to prepare for Phase 2. Horizon 2020 Phase 1 Phase 2 SME Instrument / EIC Accelerator InvestorsSME Instrument Phase 1SME Instrument Phase 2tip#08
EIC Accelerator EIC Accelerator Interview Preparation Process: Interviewee Considerations (Part 4) Posted on October 31, 2021October 26, 2021 In this fourth part of the EIC Accelerator interview guideline, the focus is shifted to specific training tools targeted at improving how questions are answered. Startups and Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME) can use these tools to better prepare for their own pitch event, investor conversations and, of course, interviews… Read More
EIC Accelerator The Difference Between Innovation and Features (EIC Accelerator) Posted on January 17, 2020October 14, 2020 Here are some tips regarding applications for the EU’s start-up grant (up to €2,500,000 via grant + €15,000,000 through equity financing). The central component for the grant application is the innovative nature of the project, meaning that it not only addresses customer needs and has a significant market impact but… Read More
EIC Accelerator Structuring an EIC Accelerator Pitch Deck for the Jury Interview (SME Instrument) Posted on December 31, 2020December 30, 2020 Under Horizon Europe (2021-2027), the EIC Accelerator blended financing program (formerly SME Instrument Phase 2, grant and equity financing) will reprise its use of pitch interviews after they have been successfully applied in previous years. In these interviews, startups and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME) are questioned in accordance to… Read More