What is Phase 1 for and What Comes Next? Posted on August 29, 2017October 13, 2017 By Stephan Segler, Ph.D. The purpose of Horizon 2020s SME Instrument Schemes Phase 1 is a feasibility study for the project (lasting around 6 months depending on the specific topic) and is financed with a flat rate of €50,000. The feasibility study entails the development of a business plan and assesses the viability of the project. The EC also offers coaching services such as: Optional Innovation and Business Development Coaching is offered in parallel throughout phases 1 and 2 to help SMEs: enhance the company’s innovation capacity align the project to the identified business development strategy develop the commercial/economic impact and long term sustainability. Coaching is provided by experienced business coaches, selected through the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN). The result of the study will be a feasibility report (an example can be found here). This report will contain: 1. Technical report (1a. Publishable Summary; 1b. Feasibility Study) 2. the answer to a questionnaire on socio-economic implications 3. a financial report including the request for payment of the balance The feasibility study is optional but greatly increases the chances for Phase 2 of the project and is highly recommended. A more detailed description by the European Commission can be found here and here. Horizon 2020 Phase 1 Phase 2 SME Instrument / EIC Accelerator EIC Accelerator helpIndustries & CompaniesSME Instrument Phase 1SME Instrument Phase 2Timeline
EIC Accelerator SME Instrument Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 (EIC Accelerator) Part 2 Posted on October 12, 2019October 9, 2020 Here is some additional information regarding the EU’s Startup Funding (The SME Instrument) that I frequently get questions about: Since Phase 1 will have its last two cut-off days this year with Phase 2 applications still being open, let me give you the main things to keep in mind… Read More
EIC Accelerator EIC Accelerator Applications and EU Policies or Targets (SME Instrument Phase 2) Posted on May 25, 2020October 9, 2020 Preparing a great EIC Accelerator application always includes the consideration of the EU policies and targets which are directly supported by the project but this strategy goes both ways. While the EIC Accelerator is open to innovations of all industries, any project that is directly going against EU policies will… Read More
EIC Accelerator How to Prepare for an EIC Accelerator Pitch Interview (SME Instrument Phase 2) – Part 2 Posted on December 22, 2020December 15, 2020 This article is a continuation of Part 1 and presents a guide for practising the EIC Accelerator blended financing (formerly SME Instrument Phase 2, grant and equity financing) pitch interview by the European Commission (EC) and European Innovation Council (EIC). Resources regarding the general questioning of the pitch and why… Read More