EIC Pathfinder 2026: Complete Guide to Europe's Advanced Research Funding Programme

August 22, 202521,048 words106 min

Introduction to EIC Pathfinder
Overview and Strategic Objectives
EIC Pathfinder Open
EIC Pathfinder Challenges
Eligibility Criteria and Who Can Apply
Funding Structure and Support Available
Application Process and Timeline
Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process
Consortium Requirements and Composition
Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)
Portfolio Management and Programme Managers
Business Acceleration Services
Booster Grants and Additional Support
Fast Track to EIC Accelerator
Pathway to EIC Transition
Intellectual Property and Open Access
Key Dates and Deadlines 2026
Success Factors and Best Practices
Conclusion and Next Steps

1. Introduction to EIC Pathfinder

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder represents Europe's premier funding instrument for advanced research and breakthrough technology development. Established under the Horizon Europe framework programme (2021-2027), the EIC Pathfinder serves as the foundational pillar for developing the scientific basis that underpins breakthrough technologies.

The overall objective of the EIC Pathfinder for advanced research is to develop the scientific basis to underpin breakthrough technologies. It provides support for the earliest stages of scientific, technological or Deeptech research and development. Pathfinder projects aim to build on new, cutting-edge directions in science and technology to disrupt a field and a market or create new opportunities by realising innovative technological solutions through two distinct funding streams:

EIC Pathfinder Open - open to support projects in any field of science, technology or application without predefined thematic priorities
EIC Pathfinder Challenges - to support coherent portfolios of projects within predefined thematic areas with the aim to achieve specific objectives for each Challenge

The EIC Pathfinder operates at the frontier of scientific discovery, supporting high-risk/high-gain research that pushes the boundaries of what is currently possible. Projects funded through this programme typically operate at Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 1-4, focusing on fundamental research breakthroughs that have the potential to create entirely new technological paradigms.

What distinguishes EIC Pathfinder from other research funding programmes is its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and its commitment to supporting research that may not work - projects that tackle questions nobody knows the answer to yet, and that may encounter aspects of problems that researchers do not yet master. This high-risk approach is fundamental to the programme's mission of fostering breakthrough innovations.

The programme is designed to support the full innovation cycle, with successful Pathfinder projects potentially progressing to EIC Transition for further technology maturation, and ultimately to EIC Accelerator for market deployment. This creates a comprehensive innovation pipeline that supports breakthrough technologies from initial scientific discovery through to commercial success.

EIC Pathfinder projects are expected to produce proof of principle demonstrations that validate the scientific and technological basis of envisioned future technologies. While the immediate goal is scientific validation rather than market-ready products, projects must demonstrate clear pathways to future impact, including potential for creating new markets, improving lives, or providing solutions for global challenges.

The programme places particular emphasis on involving and empowering key actors who have the potential to become future leaders in their fields, including excellent early-career researchers and promising high-tech SMEs, including start-ups. This focus on talent development and capacity building ensures that Europe maintains its position at the forefront of scientific and technological innovation.

In addition to financial support, EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries receive access to a comprehensive ecosystem of Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, expertise provision, and connections to ecosystem partners. This holistic support approach ensures that breakthrough scientific discoveries have the best possible chance of translating into real-world innovations.

The programme operates under the principle of open science, requiring beneficiaries to publish their results in open access formats while also ensuring adequate protection of intellectual property to facilitate future exploitation. This balanced approach supports both scientific dissemination and commercial development.

EIC Pathfinder represents a significant investment in Europe's future technological capabilities, with the 2026 Work Programme allocating substantial funding to support the development of breakthrough technologies that will drive economic growth, address societal challenges, and maintain Europe's competitive position in the global innovation landscape.

2. Overview and Strategic Objectives

The EIC Pathfinder programme is strategically positioned within the European Innovation Council's comprehensive support framework, designed to address the critical gap between fundamental research and market-ready innovations. The programme's strategic objectives are deeply aligned with Europe's broader innovation policy goals and the Horizon Europe framework's mission to drive scientific excellence and technological leadership.

Strategic Positioning and Mission

The EIC Pathfinder serves as the foundational element in the EIC's three-tier support structure, positioned between fundamental research (typically supported by the European Research Council) and market deployment (supported by EIC Accelerator). This strategic positioning enables the programme to focus specifically on the critical early-stage development of breakthrough technologies that have the potential to create new markets or provide solutions for global challenges.

Core Strategic Objectives

Scientific Breakthrough Development: To develop the scientific basis that underpins breakthrough technologies through high-risk/high-gain research approaches
Technology Foundation Building: To establish the fundamental technological foundations for future innovations that can disrupt existing markets or create entirely new ones
Interdisciplinary Innovation: To foster interdisciplinary research collaborations that bring together diverse scientific perspectives and methodologies
European Innovation Leadership: To maintain and strengthen Europe's position at the forefront of global scientific and technological innovation
Innovation Pipeline Development: To create a robust pipeline of breakthrough technologies that can progress through the full innovation cycle

Strategic Approach to High-Risk Research

The programme's strategic approach is fundamentally different from traditional research funding in its explicit embrace of high-risk research. The EIC Pathfinder is designed to support projects that may not work, that tackle questions nobody knows the answer to yet, and that may encounter aspects of problems that researchers do not yet master. This strategic acceptance of failure as a necessary part of breakthrough innovation is central to the programme's mission.

Technology Readiness Level Strategy

The programme strategically targets Technology Readiness Levels 1-4, focusing on the critical early stages of technology development where the highest risks and potentially highest rewards exist. This strategic focus ensures that the programme supports the most fundamental breakthroughs rather than incremental improvements to existing technologies.

Portfolio Management Strategy

For EIC Pathfinder Challenges, the programme employs a sophisticated portfolio management approach where dedicated Programme Managers oversee coherent portfolios of projects within predefined thematic areas. This strategic approach ensures that multiple complementary or competing approaches to specific challenges are explored simultaneously, maximizing the chances of breakthrough success.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration Strategy

The programme strategically promotes interdisciplinary research and development by bringing diverse areas of research together, often with different perspectives, terminologies and methodologies. This strategic approach recognizes that the most significant breakthroughs often occur at the intersection of different scientific disciplines.

Innovation Ecosystem Integration

The EIC Pathfinder is strategically integrated into the broader European innovation ecosystem, with clear pathways for successful projects to progress to EIC Transition and EIC Accelerator. This strategic integration ensures that breakthrough scientific discoveries have clear pathways to market deployment and commercial success.

Strategic Focus on Future Leaders

The programme strategically emphasizes the involvement and empowerment of key actors who have the potential to become future leaders in their fields, including excellent early-career researchers and promising high-tech SMEs, including start-ups. This strategic focus on talent development ensures the long-term sustainability of Europe's innovation capacity.

Open Science and Intellectual Property Strategy

The programme employs a balanced strategic approach to open science and intellectual property protection, requiring beneficiaries to publish results in open access formats while also ensuring adequate protection of intellectual property to facilitate future exploitation. This strategic balance supports both scientific dissemination and commercial development.

Global Challenge Alignment

The programme's strategic objectives are aligned with addressing global challenges such as climate change, health, energy, and digital transformation. While the immediate focus is on scientific breakthrough, the long-term strategic goal is to develop technologies that can provide solutions to these pressing global issues.

European Strategic Autonomy

The programme contributes to Europe's strategic autonomy by developing breakthrough technologies that can reduce dependence on external technologies and create competitive advantages in key strategic sectors. This strategic objective is particularly important in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, biotechnology, and other emerging fields.

Economic Impact Strategy

The programme's strategic objectives include creating new markets and economic opportunities through breakthrough technologies. By supporting the development of technologies that can disrupt existing markets or create entirely new ones, the programme aims to drive economic growth and job creation across Europe.

Innovation Culture Development

The programme strategically contributes to the development of an innovation culture in Europe that embraces risk-taking and breakthrough thinking. This strategic objective is essential for maintaining Europe's competitive position in the global innovation landscape.

3. EIC Pathfinder Open

EIC Pathfinder Open represents the flagship funding instrument for breakthrough research without predefined thematic boundaries. This open call supports projects in any field of science, technology or application, providing researchers and innovators with the freedom to pursue their most ambitious and potentially transformative ideas.

Key Questions for Potential Applicants

Before applying to EIC Pathfinder Open, potential applicants should ask themselves three fundamental questions:

Do you have an ambitious vision for a novel future technology that could make a real difference to our lives?
Do you see a plausible way of achieving the scientific breakthrough that will make this technology possible?
Can you imagine collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of researchers and innovators to validate the scientific basis of the future technology, realise a proof of principle, and explore paths to impact?

If the answer to each one of these questions is 'yes', then EIC Pathfinder Open may be the right call for you.

Why Should You Apply?

You should apply if you are looking for support from EIC Pathfinder Open to realise an ambitious vision for radically new technology, with potential to create new markets and/or to provide solutions for global challenges. EIC Pathfinder Open supports early-stage development of such future technologies (e.g., various activities at low Technology Readiness Levels from 1 to 4), based on high-risk/high-gain science-towards-technology breakthrough research ('deep-tech'). This research must provide the foundations of the technology you are envisioning.

EIC Pathfinder Open may support your work, especially if it is highly risky: you may set out to try things that will not work; you may be faced with questions that nobody knows the answer to yet; you may realise that there are many aspects of the problem that you do not master. On the contrary, if the approach you want to follow is incremental by nature or known, EIC Pathfinder Open will not support you.

Essential Characteristics ('Gatekeepers')

Before applying to this call, you should verify that your proposal meets all the following essential characteristics:

Convincing long-term vision: A radically new technology that has the potential to have a transformative positive effect to solving a challenge in our economy and society
Concrete, novel and ambitious science-towards-technology breakthrough: Providing advancement towards the envisioned technology
High-risk/high-gain research approach and methodology: With concrete and plausible objectives

Interdisciplinary Research Approach

EIC Pathfinder Open involves interdisciplinary research and development. By bringing diverse areas of research together, often with different perspectives, terminologies and methodologies, within individual projects and within a portfolio of projects, really new things can be generated, and entirely new areas of research can be opened up. It is up to you to compose the team that you need, that you can learn from, and that you can move forward with.

Expected Project Outputs

The expected output of your project is the proof of principle that the main ideas of the envisioned future technology are feasible, thus validating its scientific and technological basis. Project results should include top-level scientific publications in open access. While your vision is expected to be worthwhile because of its potential for future impact, for instance to create new markets, improve our lives, or provide solutions for global challenges, these are not expected to be achieved in the course of your EIC Pathfinder Open project.

However, you are expected to take the necessary measures in the course of the project to allow future uptake to take place. This includes: an adequate formal protection of the generated Intellectual Property (IP), a plan for future exploitation and an assessment of relevant aspects related to regulation, certification, and standardisation.

Team Composition and Leadership Development

In addition, you are encouraged to involve and empower in your team key actors that have the potential to become future leaders in their field such as excellent early-career researchers or promising high-tech SMEs, including start-ups. Your project should reinforce their mind-set for targeted research and development aimed at high impact applied results. This will strengthen Europe's capacity for exploiting the scientific discoveries made in Europe throughout the steps to market success or for solving global challenges.

You are particularly encouraged to empower female researchers in your project and to achieve gender balance among your work package leaders.

Eligibility Requirements

This call is open for collaborative research. Your proposal must be submitted by the coordinator, on behalf of a consortium including as beneficiaries, at least three legal entities, independent from each other and each established in a different country as follows:

at least one legal entity established in a Member State; and
at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries

The legal entities may for example be universities, research organisations, SMEs, startups, industrial partners or natural persons.

Funding and Support

The total indicative budget for this call is EUR [TBD] million. You will receive a grant for a Research and Innovation Action to cover the eligible costs, necessary for the implementation of your project. For this call, the EIC considers proposals with a requested EU contribution of up to EUR 4.5 million as appropriate. Nonetheless, this does not preclude you to request larger amounts, if duly justified. The funding rate of this grant will be 100% of the eligible costs.

Eligible costs will take the form of a lump sum and the amount will be determined during the evaluation process. Applicants must therefore propose the amount of the lump sum based on their estimated project costs as defined in the Decision of 7 July 2021 authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme.

In addition to funding, successful applicants will receive tailor-made access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services and interactions with EIC Programme Managers.

Additional Opportunities for Funded Projects

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible:

to receive Booster grants of a fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000 to undertake complementary activities to explore potential pathways to commercialisation or for portfolio activities
to submit an EIC Transition proposal
to submit an EIC Accelerator proposal via the Fast Track scheme
to participate in the 'Next Generation Innovation Talents' scheme

Application Process and Timeline

The deadline for submitting your proposal is 6 May 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time. You must submit your proposal via the Funding & Tenders Portal before the deadline.

Sections 1 to 3 of the part B of your proposal, corresponding respectively to the award criteria Excellence, Impact, and Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation, must consist of a maximum of 20 format A4 pages.

You will be informed about the outcome of the evaluation within 5 months from the call deadline (indicative) and, if your proposal is selected for funding, you can expect your grant agreement to be signed by 8 months after the call deadline (indicative).

Evaluation Process

Your proposal will be first evaluated and scored individually by at least three EIC expert evaluators with respect to the award criteria. The score for each award criterion will be the average of the evaluators' scores. The overall score from this individual evaluation phase will be the weighted sum of the three median scores from the three award criteria.

The evaluation committee, which will be composed of EIC expert evaluators different than those who evaluated the proposals individually, will decide on the final score on the basis of the score from the individual evaluation phase and the outcome of its consensus discussions.

The Evaluation Summary Report will comprise the final score, comments that summarises the assessment by the evaluation committee as well as any additional comments, possibly including advice not to resubmit the proposal.

Proposals will be assessed and the evaluation scores will be awarded for the criteria in accordance with the evaluation table. Each criterion will be scored out of 5. Proposals that pass the individual threshold, will be considered for funding, within the limits of the available call budget. Other proposals will be rejected.

Evaluation Criteria

The evaluation is based on three main criteria with specific thresholds and weights:

Excellence (Threshold: 4/5, weight 60%): Long-term vision, science-towards-technology breakthrough, objectives, and interdisciplinarity
Impact (Threshold: 3.5/5, weight 20%): Long-term impact, innovation potential, and communication and dissemination
Quality and efficiency of the implementation (Threshold 3/5, weight 20%): Work plan, allocation of resources, and quality of the consortium

For proposals with the same final score, priority will be based on the following factors, in order: higher score under the criterion Excellence; higher score under the criterion Impact; gender balance among the work package leaders as identified in the proposal; number of applicants that are SMEs; number of Member States and Associated Countries represented in the consortium; other factors related to the objectives of the call to be determined by the evaluation committee.

4. EIC Pathfinder Challenges

EIC Pathfinder Challenges represent a targeted funding approach that aims to build on new, cutting-edge directions in science and technology to disrupt a field and a market or create new opportunities by realising innovative technological solutions grounded in high-risk/high-gain research and development.

Portfolio-Based Approach

With each specific Challenge, a portfolio of projects will be established that explore different perspectives, competing approaches or complementary aspects of the Challenge. The complexity and high-risk nature of this research will require multidisciplinary collaborations. A dedicated Programme Manager, who establishes a common roadmap and proactively steers the portfolio towards the goals of each Challenge, oversees a specific EIC Pathfinder Challenge.

The projects in a Challenge portfolio are expected to interact and exchange, remaining flexible and reactive in the light of developments within the portfolio or in the relevant global scientific or industrial community. They will progress together towards common goals and create new opportunities for radical innovation.

Why Should You Apply?

You should apply if you have a potential cutting-edge project proposal that would contribute to the specific objectives of the respective Challenge. Specifically, your proposed project must aim to deliver by its end the expected outcomes defined in the respective Challenge. In general, the starting point of a proposal is early TRL (e.g., 2) to up to proof of concept or validation in the lab (e.g., TRL 3 or 4).

Project results should also include top-level scientific publications, adequate formal protection of the generated intellectual property (IP) as well as an assessment of relevant aspects related to regulation, certification and standardisation.

In addition, you are encouraged to involve and empower in your team key actors that have the potential to become future leaders in their fields such as excellent early-career researchers or promising high-tech SMEs, including start-ups. Your proposed project should reinforce the mind-set for targeted research and development aimed at high impact applied results. This will strengthen Europe's capacity for exploiting the scientific discoveries made in Europe throughout the steps to market success or for solving global challenges.

You are particularly encouraged to empower female researchers in your project and to achieve gender balance among your work package leaders.

Before You Apply

Before you decide to apply, you are strongly encouraged to read the respective EIC Pathfinder Challenge Guide that will be published on the EIC website and the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. The Challenge Guide will provide you with more information about the objectives of the Challenges, technical information underpinning the objectives and portfolio considerations used for the final selection of proposals to be funded.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to apply, your proposal must meet the general eligibility requirements as well as specific eligibility requirements for the Challenge (if applicable). Please check for particular elements (e.g., specific application focus or technology) in the respective Challenge chapter below.

The EIC Pathfinder Challenges can support projects from consortia or from single legal entities. In case of a consortium your proposal must be submitted by the coordinator on behalf of the consortium. Consortia of two entities must be comprised of independent legal entities from two different Member States or Associated Countries.

Consortia of three or more entities must include as beneficiaries at least three legal entities, independent from each other and each established in a different country as follows:

at least one legal entity established in a Member State; and
at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries

If the proposal is from one single legal entity, this entity must be established in a Member State or an Associated Country (unless stated otherwise in the specific Challenge chapter).

The legal entities may for example be universities, research organisations, SMEs, startups, natural persons. In the case of single beneficiary projects, mid-caps and larger companies will not be permitted.

Funding and Support

The total indicative budget for this call is EUR [TBD] million which is expected to be allocated in approximately equal shares across the Challenges. You will receive a grant for a Research and Innovation Action to cover the eligible costs, necessary for the implementation of your project, including the portfolio activities. For this call, the EIC considers proposals with an EU contribution of up to EUR 4.5 million as appropriate. Nonetheless, this does not preclude you to request larger amounts, if duly justified or stated otherwise in the specific Challenge.

The funding rate of this grant will be 100% of the eligible costs. Eligible costs will take the form of a lump sum and the amount will be determined during the evaluation process. Applicants must therefore propose the amount of the lump sum based on their estimated project costs as defined in the Decision of 7 July 2021 authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme.

It is advised to include a work package dedicated to portfolio activities and allocate at least 10 person-month to it.

In addition to funding, successful applicants will receive tailor-made access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services and interactions with EIC Programme Managers and other actions in the portfolio of projects selected to help them with the protection and exploitations of the results of the project.

Additional Opportunities for Funded Projects

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible:

to receive Booster grants of a fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000 to undertake complementary activities to explore potential pathways to commercialisation or for portfolio activities
to submit an EIC Transition proposal
to submit an EIC Accelerator proposal via the Fast Track scheme
to participate in the 'Next Generation Innovation Talents' scheme

Application Process and Timeline

The call deadline for submitting your proposal is 28 October 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time. You must submit your proposal via the Funding & Tenders Portal before the deadline.

You will be informed about the outcome of the evaluation by 5 months after call deadline (indicative), and, if your proposal is accepted for funding, you can expect your grant agreement to be signed by 8 months after the call deadline (indicative).

Two-Step Evaluation Process

After the submission of your proposal, it will be evaluated in two steps:

The EIC expert evaluators will assess each proposal separately against the award criteria and the EIC evaluation committee will ensure consistency across scores.
The EIC evaluation committee will consider all proposals passing the first step together in order to assess the best portfolio of projects to achieve the specific objectives of the Challenge (so called portfolio considerations). The evaluation committee will be composed of EIC expert evaluators and EIC Programme Managers.

Step 1: Individual Proposal Assessment

Your proposal will be first evaluated and scored individually by at least three EIC expert evaluators with respect to the award criteria. After the individual evaluation, these evaluators will get together in a consensus group to agree on a common position on comments and scores.

After the consensus Phase, the evaluation committee will check consistency across the evaluation of each individual proposal and finalise the scores and comments for all proposals.

For step 1, proposals will be assessed according to the following award criteria:

Excellence (Threshold: 4/5; weight 60%): Objectives and relevance to the Challenge, novelty, and plausibility of the methodology
Impact (Threshold: 3.5/5; weight 20%): Potential impact, innovation potential, and communication and dissemination
Quality and efficiency of the implementation (Threshold 3/5; weight 20%): Work plan, allocation of resources, and quality of the applicant/consortium

All proposals that meet the thresholds defined in the award criteria will be considered in step 2.

Step 2: Portfolio Considerations

In step 2, the evaluation committee will consider each proposal's contribution to setting up a consistent Challenge Portfolio of projects.

First, the evaluation committee will map the proposals in a number of categories stemming from the overall goal and specific objectives of the Challenge. Examples of possible categories are: building blocks or subsystems, technical areas and/or competing technologies, platforms, applications areas, risk level, stage of technology readiness level, size, etc.

Following this mapping of proposals against categories, a suitable portfolio of proposals will be selected by the evaluation committee by applying portfolio considerations in order to propose for funding a coherent set of projects that will achieve the expected outcomes and impacts of the Challenge and maximise their impact.

Scoring System

Each criterion is scored out of 5, with the following scale:

5: Excellent - The proposal successfully addresses all aspects of the criterion
4: Very Good - The proposal addresses the criterion well, with minor shortcomings
3: Good - The proposal addresses the criterion adequately, with some shortcomings
2: Fair - The proposal addresses the criterion partially, with significant shortcomings
1: Poor - The proposal fails to address the criterion or has serious shortcomings

Threshold Requirements

Proposals must meet minimum threshold scores for each criterion to be considered for funding:

Excellence: Minimum threshold of 4/5
Impact: Minimum threshold of 3.5/5
Quality and efficiency of the implementation: Minimum threshold of 3/5

Selection Process

Proposals that pass the individual threshold will be considered for funding, within the limits of the available call budget. Other proposals will be rejected. For proposals with the same final score, priority will be based on the following factors, in order:

Higher score under the criterion Excellence
Higher score under the criterion Impact
Gender balance among the work package leaders as identified in the proposal
Number of applicants that are SMEs
Number of Member States and Associated Countries represented in the consortium
Other factors related to the objectives of the call to be determined by the evaluation committee

Evaluation Summary Report

The Evaluation Summary Report will comprise the final score, comments that summarises the assessment by the evaluation committee as well as any additional comments. If your proposal was either retained for funding or not retained for funding while it received a score that was higher than other proposals retained for funding under the same Challenge, then you will also be informed about the underlying portfolio considerations.

Comments on the detailed lump sum budget table will be provided in the Evaluation Summary Report only for proposals invited to grant agreement preparation or placed in the reserve list or rejected (possibly in part) due to significant overestimation or underestimation of costs.

Expert Evaluators

The evaluation is conducted by independent expert evaluators who are selected based on their expertise in the relevant scientific and technological fields. These evaluators are carefully chosen to ensure impartiality and high-quality assessment.

In the case of EIC Pathfinder Challenges, EIC Programme Managers participate as members in some evaluation committees as specified in the call texts. This ensures that the strategic objectives of the Challenges are properly considered in the evaluation process.

Quality Assurance

The evaluation process includes multiple quality assurance measures:

Multiple evaluators per proposal to ensure balanced assessment
Consensus discussions to resolve differences in evaluation
Consistency checks across evaluations
Independent evaluation committee review
Appeals process for rejected proposals

Transparency and Fairness

The evaluation process is designed to be transparent and fair:

Clear evaluation criteria and scoring system
Independent expert evaluation
Consensus-based decision making
Detailed feedback to all applicants
Appeals mechanism for rejected proposals

Resubmission Considerations

If a proposal is not successful, the evaluation feedback will include advice on whether resubmission is recommended. This advice is based on the evaluators' assessment of the proposal's potential and the likelihood of improvement through revision.

When considering resubmission, applicants should carefully address all feedback from the previous evaluation and ensure that significant improvements have been made to address the identified weaknesses.

5. Eligibility Criteria and Who Can Apply

The EIC Pathfinder programme has specific eligibility criteria that vary between the Open and Challenges calls, but share common requirements for consortium composition, legal entity types, and geographical distribution. Understanding these criteria is essential for successful application.

General Eligibility Framework

All EIC Pathfinder calls operate under the standard admissibility and eligibility conditions detailed in Annex 2 of the Work Programme. The eligibility of associated countries and third countries is also detailed in Annex 2. These general conditions apply to all applicants regardless of whether they are applying to Pathfinder Open or Pathfinder Challenges.

EIC Pathfinder Open Eligibility Requirements

EIC Pathfinder Open is specifically designed for collaborative research. Your proposal must be submitted by the coordinator, on behalf of a consortium including as beneficiaries, at least three legal entities, independent from each other and each established in a different country as follows:

at least one legal entity established in a Member State; and
at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries

The legal entities may for example be universities, research organisations, SMEs, startups, industrial partners or natural persons. This broad eligibility allows for diverse consortium compositions that can bring together the necessary expertise and perspectives for breakthrough research.

EIC Pathfinder Challenges Eligibility Requirements

The EIC Pathfinder Challenges can support projects from consortia or from single legal entities, providing more flexibility than the Open call. In case of a consortium, your proposal must be submitted by the coordinator on behalf of the consortium.

For consortia, the requirements are:

Two-entity consortia: Must be comprised of independent legal entities from two different Member States or Associated Countries
Three or more entity consortia: Must include as beneficiaries at least three legal entities, independent from each other and each established in a different country as follows:
- at least one legal entity established in a Member State; and
- at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries

If the proposal is from one single legal entity, this entity must be established in a Member State or an Associated Country (unless stated otherwise in the specific Challenge chapter).

The legal entities may for example be universities, research organisations, SMEs, startups, natural persons. However, in the case of single beneficiary projects, mid-caps and larger companies will not be permitted.

Eligible Legal Entity Types

The EIC Pathfinder programme accepts a wide range of legal entity types, reflecting the diverse nature of breakthrough research and innovation:

Universities: Higher education institutions and research universities
Research Organisations: Public and private research institutes, laboratories, and research centres
SMEs: Small and medium-sized enterprises, including start-ups and spin-offs
Industrial Partners: Companies of various sizes (with restrictions for single beneficiary projects)
Natural Persons: Individual researchers or innovators (subject to specific conditions)

Geographical Eligibility

The programme has specific requirements for geographical distribution of consortium members:

Member States: All 27 EU Member States are eligible
Associated Countries: Countries that have signed association agreements with Horizon Europe
Third Countries: May be eligible under specific conditions detailed in Annex 2

The requirement for at least one legal entity to be established in a Member State ensures that the programme primarily benefits European research and innovation capacity.

Specific Restrictions and Exclusions

Research proposals within the scope of Annex I to the Euratom Treaty, namely those directed towards nuclear energy applications, must be submitted to relevant calls under the Euratom Research and Training Programme. This restriction ensures that nuclear research is handled through the appropriate funding mechanism.

Applications with elements that concern the evolution of European communication networks (5G, post-5G and other technologies linked to the evolution of European communication networks) will be subject to restriction for the protection of European communication networks (see Annex II – Section B1). This restriction is designed to protect European strategic interests in communication infrastructure.

Independence Requirements

All legal entities in a consortium must be independent from each other. This means they cannot be controlled by the same parent company or have significant overlapping ownership or management structures. This requirement ensures genuine collaboration and prevents artificial consortium compositions.

Eligibility for Previous Beneficiaries

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible for additional support opportunities such as Booster grants, EIC Transition proposals, and Fast Track access to EIC Accelerator. The eligible calls include all EIC Pathfinder calls under Horizon Europe and specific Horizon 2020 calls.

Special Considerations for SMEs and Start-ups

The programme places particular emphasis on involving SMEs and start-ups, especially in the context of team composition and leadership development. Applicants are encouraged to involve and empower promising high-tech SMEs, including start-ups, as these entities often bring valuable innovation perspectives and entrepreneurial approaches to research projects.

Gender Balance Requirements

While not a strict eligibility criterion, the programme strongly encourages gender balance among work package leaders and the involvement of female researchers. This emphasis reflects the programme's commitment to diversity and inclusion in research and innovation.

Early-Career Researcher Involvement

The programme encourages the involvement of excellent early-career researchers who have the potential to become future leaders in their fields. This focus on talent development ensures the long-term sustainability of Europe's research and innovation capacity.

Verification of Eligibility

Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their proposals meet all eligibility criteria before submission. The evaluation process includes verification of eligibility, and proposals that do not meet the criteria will be rejected without further consideration. It is therefore essential to carefully review all eligibility requirements and ensure compliance before submitting a proposal.

Changes in Eligibility Status

If an applicant's eligibility status changes during the evaluation process (for example, if an SME grows beyond the SME definition), this may affect the eligibility of the proposal. Applicants should maintain their eligibility status throughout the entire evaluation and funding process.

Documentation Requirements

Applicants may be required to provide documentation to verify their eligibility, including proof of legal establishment, SME status declarations, and other relevant documents. These requirements are detailed in the call documentation and must be fulfilled for successful application.

6. Funding Structure and Support Available

The EIC Pathfinder programme provides comprehensive financial support and additional services designed to maximize the success of breakthrough research projects. The funding structure is designed to be flexible and supportive of high-risk research while ensuring proper resource allocation and project management.

Overall Budget Allocation

The EIC Pathfinder programme receives substantial funding under the Horizon Europe framework. For the 2026 Work Programme, the total indicative budget for EIC Pathfinder Open is EUR [TBD] million, while the total indicative budget for EIC Pathfinder Challenges is EUR [TBD] million, which is expected to be allocated in approximately equal shares across the Challenges.

Individual Project Funding Levels

For both EIC Pathfinder Open and EIC Pathfinder Challenges, the EIC considers proposals with a requested EU contribution of up to EUR 4.5 million as appropriate. This represents an increase from previous years, designed to enable progress to proof of concept stage. Nonetheless, this does not preclude applicants from requesting larger amounts if duly justified.

The funding rate for all EIC Pathfinder grants is 100% of the eligible costs, providing full financial support for the research activities. This generous funding rate reflects the high-risk nature of the research and the programme's commitment to supporting breakthrough innovations.

Lump Sum Funding Model

EIC Pathfinder uses a lump sum funding model, where eligible costs take the form of a fixed lump sum amount that is determined during the evaluation process. Applicants must propose the amount of the lump sum based on their estimated project costs as defined in the Decision of 7 July 2021 authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme.

This lump sum approach simplifies financial management for beneficiaries while ensuring that projects receive adequate funding for their research activities. The lump sum amount is determined based on the evaluation of the proposed activities and their associated costs.

Eligible Cost Categories

The lump sum funding covers all eligible costs necessary for the implementation of the project, including:

Personnel costs: Salaries and related costs for researchers and technical staff
Equipment and infrastructure: Research equipment, laboratory facilities, and computational resources
Materials and consumables: Research materials, chemicals, and other consumables
Travel and subsistence: Costs for project meetings, conferences, and research visits
Subcontracting: External services and expertise not available within the consortium
Other direct costs: Publications, intellectual property protection, and other project-related expenses

Portfolio Activities Funding (Challenges)

For EIC Pathfinder Challenges, the funding also covers portfolio activities that involve collaboration between projects within the Challenge Portfolio. It is advised to include a work package dedicated to portfolio activities and allocate at least 10 person-months to it. This funding supports the collaborative nature of Challenge projects and ensures effective portfolio management.

Business Acceleration Services

In addition to financial support, successful applicants receive tailor-made access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services (BAS). These services are designed to help beneficiaries maximize the impact of their research and prepare for future commercialization:

Coaching and mentoring: Expert guidance on research commercialization and business development
Expertise provision: Access to specialized knowledge and technical expertise
Ecosystem connections: Networking opportunities with potential partners, investors, and customers
Market intelligence: Information about market opportunities and competitive landscape
Investment readiness support: Preparation for future funding rounds and investor presentations

EIC Programme Manager Support

All EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries receive direct support from EIC Programme Managers who provide strategic guidance and oversight throughout the project lifecycle. Programme Managers work closely with project teams to:

Monitor project progress and provide strategic advice
Facilitate connections with other EIC projects and relevant stakeholders
Support portfolio management for Challenge projects
Provide guidance on intellectual property protection and exploitation strategies
Assist with transition planning for future funding opportunities

Additional Funding Opportunities

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible for several additional funding opportunities:

Booster Grants

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries may receive Booster grants of a fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000 to undertake complementary activities to explore potential pathways to commercialisation or for portfolio activities. These grants provide additional resources for activities that go beyond the scope of the main project but are essential for future success.

EIC Transition Funding

Successful EIC Pathfinder projects may be eligible to submit EIC Transition proposals for further technology maturation and validation. EIC Transition provides funding of between EUR 0.5 million and EUR 2.5 million for projects that build on Pathfinder results and aim to mature technologies towards commercial applications.

Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries may submit EIC Accelerator proposals via the Fast Track scheme, which provides expedited access to the EIC Accelerator programme for market deployment and scaling. This pathway offers funding of up to EUR 2.5 million in grants and up to EUR 15 million in equity investment.

Next Generation Innovation Talents Scheme

EIC Pathfinder projects may participate in the 'Next Generation Innovation Talents' scheme, which supports the development of early-career researchers and innovators. The personnel costs of researchers participating in this scheme are eligible under EIC Pathfinder grant agreements.

Intellectual Property Support

The EIC provides support for intellectual property protection and management, including:

Guidance on IP strategy development
Support for patent filing and protection
Assistance with licensing and technology transfer
Access to IP expertise and legal advice

Open Science Support

The programme provides support for open science practices, including:

Guidance on open access publishing
Support for data management and sharing
Assistance with research dissemination strategies
Access to open science tools and platforms

Project Management Support

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries receive comprehensive project management support, including:

Administrative guidance and support
Financial management assistance
Reporting and monitoring support
Risk management guidance
Quality assurance support

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

The programme facilitates networking and collaboration through:

EIC community events and workshops
Cross-project collaboration opportunities
International networking events
Industry partnership facilitation
Academic collaboration support

Communication and Dissemination Support

EIC Pathfinder provides support for effective communication and dissemination of research results:

Communication strategy development
Media and public relations support
Conference and workshop organization assistance
Digital communication tools and platforms
Stakeholder engagement support

Impact Assessment and Monitoring

The programme provides tools and support for impact assessment and monitoring:

Impact measurement frameworks
Performance monitoring tools
Evaluation methodology support
Long-term impact tracking
Success story development

Financial Management and Reporting

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries receive support for financial management and reporting:

Financial reporting guidance
Budget management tools
Audit support and preparation
Cost eligibility verification
Financial risk management

7. Application Process and Timeline

The EIC Pathfinder application process is designed to be comprehensive yet accessible, ensuring that the most promising breakthrough research proposals receive the support they need. Understanding the application process and timeline is crucial for successful submission and project implementation.

Application Deadlines

The EIC Pathfinder programme has different deadlines for its two main funding streams:

EIC Pathfinder Open: 6 May 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time
EIC Pathfinder Challenges: 28 October 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time

These deadlines are strictly enforced, and proposals submitted after the deadline will not be considered. The Director-General responsible for the call may delay the deadline(s) by up to two months if necessary, but applicants should plan according to the published deadlines.

Call Opening Dates

The calls will open on specific dates before the submission deadlines:

EIC Pathfinder Open: Opens on XX 2026
EIC Pathfinder Challenges: Opens on 22-April-2025

The Director-General responsible for the call may decide to open the call up to one month prior to or after the envisaged date(s) of opening. Applicants should monitor the Funding & Tenders Portal for the exact opening dates.

Submission Platform

All proposals must be submitted via the Funding & Tenders Portal (https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home), which can also be accessed via the EIC website (https://eic.ec.europa.eu). The portal provides a comprehensive submission system with built-in validation and guidance.

Proposal Structure and Format

EIC Pathfinder proposals consist of two main parts:

Part A: Administrative information and consortium details
Part B: Technical proposal containing the detailed project description

Part B Structure and Page Limits

The technical proposal (Part B) must follow specific structure and page limit requirements:

EIC Pathfinder Open: Sections 1 to 3 must consist of a maximum of 20 format A4 pages
EIC Pathfinder Challenges: Sections 1 to 3 must consist of a maximum of 30 format A4 pages

The sections correspond respectively to the award criteria:

Section 1: Excellence
Section 2: Impact
Section 3: Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation

Additional Requirements for Challenges

For EIC Pathfinder Challenges, applicants must also include a cover page that includes information about the related project on which the current EIC Pathfinder proposal is built. This cover page is included in the page limit for Challenges.

Proposal Content Requirements

Each section of the proposal must address specific aspects of the project:

Section 1: Excellence

Long-term vision and scientific breakthrough
Objectives and methodology
Interdisciplinary approach
Innovation potential

Section 2: Impact

Expected outcomes and impacts
Pathways to exploitation
Communication and dissemination strategy
Societal and economic benefits

Section 3: Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation

Work plan and methodology
Resource allocation
Consortium composition and expertise
Risk management

Budget and Financial Information

Applicants must provide detailed budget information including:

Requested EU contribution amount
Breakdown of costs by work package
Personnel costs and effort allocation
Equipment and infrastructure costs
Travel and subsistence costs
Other direct costs

Consortium Information

The proposal must include comprehensive information about all consortium members:

Legal entity details and registration information
Organizational profiles and expertise
Key personnel and their roles
Previous relevant experience
Financial capacity and stability

Pre-Submission Checklist

Before submitting, applicants should verify:

All eligibility criteria are met
Proposal format and page limits are respected
All required documents are included
Budget calculations are accurate
Consortium agreement is in place (if applicable)
Ethics and security requirements are addressed

Evaluation Timeline

The evaluation process follows a structured timeline:

EIC Pathfinder Open:

Evaluation completion: Within 5 months from the call deadline (indicative)
Grant agreement signature: By 8 months after the call deadline (indicative)

EIC Pathfinder Challenges:

Evaluation completion: By 5 months after call deadline (indicative)
Grant agreement signature: By 8 months after the call deadline (indicative)

Notification Process

Applicants will be informed about the outcome of the evaluation through the Funding & Tenders Portal. The notification will include:

Evaluation results and scores
Detailed feedback from evaluators
Information about next steps (if successful)
Resubmission advice (if applicable)

Grant Agreement Preparation

Successful applicants will receive a letter announcing that their proposal has been retained for funding and outlining the next steps regarding grant agreement signature. Grant agreement preparation and signature is expected to be completed within three months, but shorter timelines may be specified.

Project Start Timeline

Once the grant agreement is signed, projects are expected to start within a reasonable timeframe. The exact start date will be specified in the grant agreement, but typically projects begin within 2-3 months of grant agreement signature.

Support During Application Process

Applicants have access to various sources of support during the application process:

National Contact Points: Available in each EU Member State and Associated Country
Enterprise Europe Network: Provides business support and guidance
EIC Helpdesk: Technical support for portal and submission issues
Challenge Guides: Specific guidance for Challenge applicants
Frequently Asked Questions: Available on the EIC website

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

To increase chances of success, applicants should avoid:

Missing eligibility criteria
Exceeding page limits
Incomplete consortium information
Unrealistic budget estimates
Insufficient detail in methodology
Weak impact assessment
Poor risk management planning
Inadequate communication strategy

Resubmission Guidelines

If a proposal is not successful, applicants may consider resubmission in future calls. When resubmitting, applicants should:

Carefully address all feedback from the previous evaluation
Improve weak areas identified by evaluators
Update the proposal to reflect recent developments
Ensure all eligibility criteria are still met
Consider whether the proposal would benefit from additional partners or expertise

Post-Submission Support

After submission, applicants can access support for:

Clarification of evaluation results
Grant agreement preparation
Project start-up activities
Administrative and financial management
Technical implementation guidance

8. Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

The EIC Pathfinder evaluation process is designed to identify the most promising breakthrough research proposals through a rigorous, multi-stage assessment. The evaluation criteria are specifically tailored to assess the high-risk, high-gain nature of Pathfinder projects and their potential for transformative impact.

Evaluation Methodology

For the EIC Pathfinder, which supports science-towards-technology breakthrough research, the evaluation follows a peer review method where proposals are evaluated, scored and ranked by experts based on weighted criteria. The evaluation process ensures that only the most promising proposals with the highest potential for breakthrough impact are selected for funding.

EIC Pathfinder Open Evaluation Process

The evaluation process for EIC Pathfinder Open follows a structured two-phase approach:

Phase 1: Individual Evaluation

Phase 2: Consensus Evaluation

EIC Pathfinder Challenges Evaluation Process

The evaluation process for EIC Pathfinder Challenges is more complex due to the portfolio approach and involves two distinct steps:

Step 1: Individual Proposal Assessment

After the consensus Phase, the evaluation committee will check consistency across the evaluation of each individual proposal and finalise the scores and comments for all proposals.

Step 2: Portfolio Considerations

The EIC evaluation committee will consider all proposals passing the first step together in order to assess the best portfolio of projects to achieve the specific objectives of the Challenge (so called portfolio considerations). The evaluation committee will be composed of EIC expert evaluators and EIC Programme Managers.

Evaluation Criteria for EIC Pathfinder Open

Proposals are assessed against three main criteria with specific thresholds and weights:

Excellence (Threshold: 4/5, weight 60%)

This criterion assesses the scientific and technological quality of the proposal:

Long-term vision: How convincing is the vision of a radically new technology and relevant potential solutions, towards which the project would contribute in the long term?
Science-towards-technology breakthrough: How concrete, novel, and ambitious is the proposed science-towards-technology breakthrough with respect to the state-of-the-art? What advancement does it provide towards realising the envisioned technology?
Objectives: How concrete and plausible are the proposed objectives to reach the envisaged proof of principle? To what extent is the high-risk/high-gain research approach appropriate for achieving them? How sound is the proposed methodology, including the underlying concepts, models, assumptions, alternative directions and options, appropriate consideration of the gender dimension in research content, and the quality of open science practices?
Interdisciplinarity: How relevant is the interdisciplinary approach from traditionally distant disciplines for achieving the proposed breakthrough?

Impact (Threshold: 3.5/5, weight 20%)

This criterion evaluates the potential impact and innovation potential:

Long-term impact: How significant are the potential transformative positive effects that the envisioned new technological solution would have to our economy, environment and society?
Innovation potential: To what extent does the envisioned new technology have potential for generating disruptive innovations in the future and for creating new markets? How adequate are the proposed measures for protection of results and any other exploitation measures to facilitate future translation of research results into innovations?
Communication and Dissemination: How suitable are the measures to maximise expected outcomes and impacts, including scientific publications, communication activities, for raising awareness about the project results' potential to establish new markets and/or address global challenges?

Quality and efficiency of the implementation (Threshold 3/5, weight 20%)

This criterion assesses the implementation quality and efficiency:

Work plan: How coherent and effective are the work plan (work packages, tasks, deliverables, milestones, timeline, etc.) and risk mitigation measures in order to achieve the project objectives?
Allocation of resources: How appropriate and effective is the allocation of resources (comprising person-months and other cost items) to work packages and consortium members?
Quality of the consortium: To what extent do all the consortium members have the necessary capacity and high-quality expertise for performing the project tasks?

Evaluation Criteria for EIC Pathfinder Challenges

The evaluation criteria for Challenges are similar but adapted to the portfolio approach:

Excellence (Threshold: 4/5; weight 60%)

Objectives and relevance to the Challenge: How clear are the project's objectives? How relevant are they in contributing to the overall goal and the specific objectives of the Challenge?
Novelty: To what extent is the proposed work ambitious and goes beyond the state-of-the-art?
Plausibility of the methodology: How sound is the proposed methodology, including the underlying concepts, models, assumptions, appropriate consideration of the gender dimension in research content, and the quality of open science practices?

Impact (Threshold: 3.5/5; weight 20%)

Potential Impact: How credible are the pathways to achieve the expected outcomes and impacts of the Challenge? To what extent would the successful completion of the project contribute to this?
Innovation potential: How realistic is the proof of principle for demonstrating the potential impact of the technology for the challenge? How adequate are the proposed measures for protection of results and any other exploitation measures to facilitate future translation of research results into innovations with positive societal, economic or environmental impact? How suitable are the proposed measures for involving and empowering key actors that have the potential to take the lead in translating research into innovations in the future?
Communication and Dissemination: How suitable are the proposed measures, including communication activities, to maximise expected outcomes and impacts for raising awareness about the project results' potential to establish new markets and/or address global challenges?

Quality and efficiency of the implementation (Threshold 3/5; weight 20%)

Work plan: How coherent and effective are the work plan (work packages, tasks, deliverables, milestones, timeline, etc.) and risk mitigation measures in order to achieve the project objectives?
Allocation of resources: How appropriate and effective is the allocation of resources (comprising person-months and other cost items) to work packages and consortium members?
Quality of the applicant/consortium: To what extent does the applicant / do all consortium members have the necessary capacity and high quality expertise for performing the project tasks?

Portfolio Considerations for Challenges

In step 2 of the Challenges evaluation, the evaluation committee will consider each proposal's contribution to setting up a consistent Challenge Portfolio of projects.

Scoring System

Each criterion is scored out of 5, with the following scale:

5: Excellent - The proposal successfully addresses all aspects of the criterion
4: Very Good - The proposal addresses the criterion well, with minor shortcomings
3: Good - The proposal addresses the criterion adequately, with some shortcomings
2: Fair - The proposal addresses the criterion partially, with significant shortcomings
1: Poor - The proposal fails to address the criterion or has serious shortcomings

Threshold Requirements

Proposals must meet minimum threshold scores for each criterion to be considered for funding:

Excellence: Minimum threshold of 4/5
Impact: Minimum threshold of 3.5/5
Quality and efficiency of the implementation: Minimum threshold of 3/5

Selection Process

Higher score under the criterion Excellence
Higher score under the criterion Impact
Gender balance among the work package leaders as identified in the proposal
Number of applicants that are SMEs
Number of Member States and Associated Countries represented in the consortium
Other factors related to the objectives of the call to be determined by the evaluation committee

Evaluation Summary Report

Expert Evaluators

Quality Assurance

The evaluation process includes multiple quality assurance measures:

Multiple evaluators per proposal to ensure balanced assessment
Consensus discussions to resolve differences in evaluation
Consistency checks across evaluations
Independent evaluation committee review
Appeals process for rejected proposals

Transparency and Fairness

The evaluation process is designed to be transparent and fair:

Clear evaluation criteria and scoring system
Independent expert evaluation
Consensus-based decision making
Detailed feedback to all applicants
Appeals mechanism for rejected proposals

Resubmission Considerations

9. Consortium Requirements and Composition

The EIC Pathfinder programme has specific requirements for consortium composition that vary between the Open and Challenges calls. Understanding these requirements is essential for building a successful consortium that can deliver breakthrough research outcomes.

EIC Pathfinder Open Consortium Requirements

EIC Pathfinder Open is specifically designed for collaborative research and requires a minimum consortium size. Your proposal must be submitted by the coordinator, on behalf of a consortium including as beneficiaries, at least three legal entities, independent from each other and each established in a different country as follows:

at least one legal entity established in a Member State; and
at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries

This requirement ensures that EIC Pathfinder Open projects benefit from international collaboration and diverse expertise, which is essential for breakthrough research.

EIC Pathfinder Challenges Consortium Flexibility

The EIC Pathfinder Challenges offer more flexibility in consortium composition. They can support projects from consortia or from single legal entities, providing opportunities for both collaborative and individual research approaches.

Consortium Options for Challenges

Single legal entity: One organization can apply alone if it is established in a Member State or an Associated Country (unless stated otherwise in the specific Challenge chapter)
Two-entity consortia: Must be comprised of independent legal entities from two different Member States or Associated Countries
Three or more entity consortia: Must include as beneficiaries at least three legal entities, independent from each other and each established in a different country as follows:
- at least one legal entity established in a Member State; and
- at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries

Eligible Legal Entity Types

The EIC Pathfinder programme accepts a wide range of legal entity types, allowing for diverse consortium compositions:

Universities: Higher education institutions and research universities
Research Organisations: Public and private research institutes, laboratories, and research centres
SMEs: Small and medium-sized enterprises, including start-ups and spin-offs
Industrial Partners: Companies of various sizes (with restrictions for single beneficiary projects)
Natural Persons: Individual researchers or innovators (subject to specific conditions)

Restrictions for Single Beneficiary Projects

In the case of single beneficiary projects, mid-caps and larger companies will not be permitted. This restriction ensures that single beneficiary projects are primarily focused on research organizations, SMEs, or individual researchers rather than large corporations.

Independence Requirements

Geographical Distribution Requirements

The programme has specific requirements for geographical distribution of consortium members:

Member States: All 27 EU Member States are eligible
Associated Countries: Countries that have signed association agreements with Horizon Europe
Third Countries: May be eligible under specific conditions detailed in Annex 2

The requirement for at least one legal entity to be established in a Member State ensures that the programme primarily benefits European research and innovation capacity.

Consortium Coordinator Role

The consortium coordinator plays a crucial role in the project:

Proposal submission: The coordinator submits the proposal on behalf of the entire consortium
Project management: The coordinator is responsible for overall project coordination and management
Financial management: The coordinator manages the distribution of funds to consortium members
Communication: The coordinator serves as the main point of contact with the European Commission
Reporting: The coordinator is responsible for project reporting and deliverables

Consortium Agreement Requirements

For multi-beneficiary projects, a consortium agreement is required that defines:

Internal organization and management structure
Distribution of tasks and responsibilities
Financial arrangements and budget allocation
Intellectual property rights and exploitation
Liability and risk management
Dispute resolution mechanisms

Optimal Consortium Composition

While the minimum requirements must be met, successful EIC Pathfinder consortia typically include:

Academic partners: Universities and research organizations for fundamental research expertise
Industrial partners: Companies for applied research and commercialization perspectives
SMEs and start-ups: For innovation and entrepreneurial approaches
End users: Organizations that will ultimately use the technology
Technology transfer offices: For intellectual property and commercialization expertise

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

EIC Pathfinder emphasizes interdisciplinary research and development. Successful consortia bring together diverse areas of research with different perspectives, terminologies and methodologies. This interdisciplinary approach is essential for breakthrough innovations that occur at the intersection of different scientific disciplines.

Gender Balance and Diversity

The programme strongly encourages gender balance among work package leaders and the involvement of female researchers. Consortia should consider gender balance when selecting key personnel and work package leaders.

Early-Career Researcher Involvement

Consortia are encouraged to involve excellent early-career researchers who have the potential to become future leaders in their fields. This focus on talent development ensures the long-term sustainability of Europe's research and innovation capacity.

SME and Start-up Involvement

The programme places particular emphasis on involving SMEs and start-ups, especially in the context of team composition and leadership development. These entities often bring valuable innovation perspectives and entrepreneurial approaches to research projects.

Consortium Size Considerations

While there are minimum requirements, consortium size should be optimized for the specific project needs:

Too small: May lack necessary expertise or resources
Too large: May become unwieldy and difficult to manage
Optimal size: Depends on project complexity and required expertise

Consortium Management Challenges

Managing a diverse consortium presents several challenges:

Coordination complexity: Multiple partners with different organizational cultures
Communication barriers: Different languages, time zones, and communication styles
Intellectual property management: Complex IP arrangements between multiple partners
Financial management: Coordinating budgets and financial reporting across partners
Quality assurance: Ensuring consistent quality across all partners

Best Practices for Consortium Building

Successful consortia typically follow these best practices:

Clear roles and responsibilities: Well-defined tasks and deliverables for each partner
Strong leadership: Effective coordination and decision-making processes
Regular communication: Frequent meetings and progress updates
Risk management: Contingency plans for potential partner issues
Quality assurance: Mechanisms to ensure consistent quality across partners
Conflict resolution: Clear procedures for resolving disputes

Consortium Evaluation Criteria

The quality of the consortium is evaluated as part of the "Quality and efficiency of the implementation" criterion:

Capacity and expertise: Do all consortium members have the necessary capacity and high-quality expertise for performing the project tasks?
Complementarity: Do the partners bring complementary expertise and resources?
Coordination: Is the consortium well-organized and effectively coordinated?
Commitment: Are all partners committed to the project objectives?

Consortium Changes During Project

While consortium composition should be stable, changes may be necessary during the project. Any changes must be approved by the European Commission and must maintain compliance with eligibility requirements.

Future Consortium Opportunities

Successful EIC Pathfinder consortia may have opportunities to continue collaboration through:

EIC Transition projects
EIC Accelerator applications
Other EU funding programmes
Commercial partnerships
Joint ventures and spin-offs

10. Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)

Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) are a standardized framework used by the European Commission to assess the maturity of technologies and innovations. Understanding TRLs is crucial for EIC Pathfinder applicants, as the programme specifically targets early-stage research and development activities.

TRL Framework Overview

The TRL framework consists of nine levels, from TRL 1 (basic research) to TRL 9 (system proven through successful mission operations). Each level represents a specific stage in the technology development process, with clear criteria for advancement to the next level.

EIC Pathfinder TRL Focus

EIC Pathfinder specifically targets the earliest stages of technology development, focusing on TRLs 1-4. This focus reflects the programme's mission to support breakthrough research that is still in the fundamental or early development stages.

TRL 1: Basic Research

TRL 1 represents the lowest level of technology readiness, where basic research is conducted to observe and report basic principles. At this level:

Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and development
Basic principles are observed and reported
No specific applications are identified
Research is primarily theoretical or experimental

TRL 2: Technology Formulation

TRL 2 involves technology formulation, where basic principles are translated into practical applications. At this level:

Practical applications are identified
Technology concepts are formulated
Initial experimental validation is conducted
Proof of concept studies begin

TRL 3: Proof of Concept

TRL 3 represents the proof of concept stage, where analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept is demonstrated. At this level:

Analytical and experimental studies validate the concept
Critical functions are demonstrated
Proof of concept is established
Initial feasibility is confirmed

TRL 4: Laboratory Validation

TRL 4 involves laboratory validation, where component and/or breadboard validation in laboratory environment is completed. At this level:

Components are validated in laboratory environments
Breadboard prototypes are developed and tested
Laboratory-scale validation is completed
Technology is ready for more complex testing

EIC Pathfinder TRL Requirements

EIC Pathfinder projects typically start at early TRL levels (e.g., TRL 2) and aim to progress to proof of concept or validation in the lab (e.g., TRL 3 or 4) by the end of the project. This progression represents significant advancement in technology maturity.

TRL Progression in EIC Pathfinder

The expected TRL progression for EIC Pathfinder projects is:

Starting point: Early TRL (typically TRL 1-2)
Target endpoint: Proof of concept or validation in lab (TRL 3-4)
Expected advancement: 1-2 TRL levels during the project

TRL Assessment Criteria

When assessing TRL levels, evaluators consider:

Technology maturity: How developed is the technology?
Validation level: What level of validation has been achieved?
Environment complexity: In what environment has the technology been tested?
Integration level: How integrated are the components?
Performance metrics: What performance levels have been achieved?

TRL and Project Objectives

The TRL level influences project objectives and deliverables:

TRL 1-2 projects: Focus on concept development and initial validation
TRL 2-3 projects: Focus on proof of concept and laboratory validation
TRL 3-4 projects: Focus on component validation and integration

TRL and Risk Assessment

TRL levels are directly related to technology risk:

Lower TRLs (1-2): Higher technical risk, more uncertainty
Mid TRLs (3-4): Moderate technical risk, some uncertainty
Higher TRLs (5+): Lower technical risk, more certainty

TRL and Funding Requirements

TRL levels influence funding requirements and project scope:

Lower TRLs: Require more fundamental research funding
Mid TRLs: Require validation and testing funding
Higher TRLs: Require demonstration and integration funding

TRL and Consortium Composition

TRL levels may influence optimal consortium composition:

Lower TRLs: More academic and research organization involvement
Mid TRLs: Balance of academic and industrial partners
Higher TRLs: More industrial and end-user involvement

TRL and Evaluation Criteria

TRL levels are considered in the evaluation process:

Appropriateness: Is the TRL level appropriate for the proposed research?
Progression: Is the proposed TRL progression realistic?
Risk management: Are the risks appropriate for the TRL level?
Resources: Are the resources appropriate for the TRL level?

TRL and Project Timeline

TRL progression influences project timelines:

Lower TRLs: May require longer timelines for fundamental research
Mid TRLs: Require adequate time for validation and testing
Higher TRLs: May require more time for integration and demonstration

TRL and Success Metrics

Success metrics should be appropriate for the TRL level:

TRL 1-2: Focus on scientific publications and concept validation
TRL 2-3: Focus on proof of concept and initial performance metrics
TRL 3-4: Focus on component validation and integration success

TRL and Intellectual Property

TRL levels influence intellectual property considerations:

Lower TRLs: May focus on scientific publications and patents
Mid TRLs: May include both patents and know-how
Higher TRLs: May include patents, know-how, and trade secrets

TRL and Commercialization Planning

TRL levels influence commercialization planning:

Lower TRLs: Focus on technology development and validation
Mid TRLs: Begin to consider market applications
Higher TRLs: More detailed commercialization planning

TRL and Next Steps

TRL levels determine appropriate next steps after EIC Pathfinder:

TRL 3-4 completion: May be ready for EIC Transition
TRL 4-5 completion: May be ready for EIC Accelerator
TRL 5+ completion: May be ready for market deployment

TRL Documentation Requirements

Proposals should clearly document TRL levels:

Current TRL: What is the current TRL of the technology?
Target TRL: What TRL will be achieved by the end of the project?
TRL progression: How will the technology progress through TRL levels?
TRL validation: How will TRL progression be validated?

TRL and Risk Management

TRL levels influence risk management strategies:

Lower TRLs: Focus on technical and scientific risks
Mid TRLs: Balance technical and market risks
Higher TRLs: Focus on market and commercialization risks

TRL and Stakeholder Engagement

TRL levels influence stakeholder engagement strategies:

Lower TRLs: Focus on scientific community engagement
Mid TRLs: Begin to engage potential end users
Higher TRLs: Engage investors and commercialization partners

TRL and Communication Strategy

TRL levels influence communication strategies:

Lower TRLs: Focus on scientific communication and publications
Mid TRLs: Balance scientific and technical communication
Higher TRLs: Include market and commercialization communication

11. Portfolio Management and Programme Managers

Portfolio management is a key feature of the EIC Pathfinder programme, particularly for EIC Pathfinder Challenges. The programme employs dedicated Programme Managers who oversee portfolios of projects and provide strategic guidance to maximize the impact of breakthrough research.

Portfolio Management Approach

The EIC Pathfinder programme uses a sophisticated portfolio management approach where dedicated Programme Managers oversee coherent portfolios of projects within predefined thematic areas. This approach ensures that multiple complementary or competing approaches to specific challenges are explored simultaneously, maximizing the chances of breakthrough success.

Programme Manager Role

Each EIC Pathfinder Challenge is overseen by a dedicated Programme Manager who establishes a common roadmap and proactively steers the portfolio towards the goals of each Challenge. Programme Managers play a crucial role in:

Establishing strategic direction for the Challenge portfolio
Providing guidance to individual projects
Facilitating collaboration between projects
Monitoring portfolio progress and impact
Identifying opportunities for synergies and collaboration

Portfolio Interaction and Exchange

This collaborative approach ensures that:

Projects can learn from each other's progress and challenges
Synergies between different approaches can be identified and exploited
The overall impact of the portfolio is greater than the sum of individual projects
Emerging opportunities can be quickly identified and pursued

Challenge Roadmap Development

During grant agreement preparation, the EIC Project Officer and relevant EIC Programme Manager will contact applicants and provide support to plan the portfolio activities and start the preparation of the Challenge roadmap. This roadmap will define the collective deliverables, activities and objectives of the portfolio of projects selected.

The Challenge roadmap serves as a strategic document that:

Outlines the collective vision for the Challenge
Defines shared objectives and milestones
Identifies opportunities for collaboration and synergies
Establishes mechanisms for portfolio-wide communication and coordination
Sets expectations for portfolio-level outcomes and impact

Portfolio Activities

For EIC Pathfinder Challenges, the funding covers portfolio activities that involve collaboration between projects within the Challenge Portfolio. It is advised to include a work package dedicated to portfolio activities and allocate at least 10 person-months to it.

Portfolio activities may include:

Regular portfolio meetings and workshops
Cross-project collaboration on common challenges
Shared resources and infrastructure
Joint publications and dissemination activities
Collective impact assessment and monitoring

Continuous Interaction with Programme Managers

During the execution of the project, beneficiaries will interact continuously with the EIC Project Officer assigned to their project and the EIC Programme Manager assigned to the Challenge Portfolio of their project, who will oversee all the portfolio projects.

This continuous interaction ensures:

Regular progress monitoring and feedback
Timely identification and resolution of issues
Strategic guidance and support
Facilitation of portfolio-wide opportunities
Alignment with overall Challenge objectives

Proactive Portfolio Management

Proactive management applies to EIC Pathfinder Challenges, EIC Transition and EIC Accelerator projects and consists of the following activities:

Regular portfolio reviews and assessments
Strategic guidance and support to individual projects
Facilitation of cross-project collaboration
Identification of emerging opportunities and challenges
Coordination of portfolio-wide activities and events

Portfolio Reviews

Portfolio reviews may involve an assessment to submit a proposal directly to the EIC Accelerator under the Fast Track scheme or to submit a proposal to EIC Transition calls. These reviews help identify projects that are ready for the next stage of development and provide guidance on transition planning.

Portfolio Synergies

The portfolio approach enables the identification and exploitation of synergies between projects:

Technical synergies: Shared technologies, methodologies, or approaches
Market synergies: Complementary applications or market segments
Resource synergies: Shared infrastructure, equipment, or expertise
Network synergies: Shared stakeholders, partners, or end users

Portfolio Communication and Coordination

Effective portfolio management requires robust communication and coordination mechanisms:

Regular portfolio meetings: Scheduled meetings to discuss progress and opportunities
Communication platforms: Dedicated platforms for portfolio-wide communication
Progress reporting: Regular updates on individual project progress
Knowledge sharing: Mechanisms for sharing insights and lessons learned
Collaboration tools: Tools and platforms to facilitate cross-project collaboration

Portfolio Impact Assessment

Portfolio management includes assessment of the collective impact of all projects:

Portfolio-level metrics: Overall progress towards Challenge objectives
Synergy assessment: Evaluation of collaboration and synergy benefits
Collective outcomes: Assessment of portfolio-wide achievements
Impact measurement: Evaluation of the overall impact of the portfolio

Programme Manager Expertise

EIC Programme Managers bring deep expertise in their respective fields and provide:

Technical expertise: Deep understanding of the relevant technology areas
Strategic guidance: Long-term vision and strategic direction
Network connections: Access to relevant stakeholders and partners
Market insights: Understanding of market trends and opportunities
Policy knowledge: Understanding of relevant policy and regulatory frameworks

Portfolio Flexibility and Adaptability

The portfolio approach is designed to be flexible and adaptable:

Emerging opportunities: Ability to identify and pursue new opportunities
Risk mitigation: Diversification across multiple approaches
Learning and adaptation: Ability to learn from individual project experiences
Strategic pivoting: Ability to adjust strategy based on new insights

Portfolio Success Factors

Successful portfolio management depends on several factors:

Clear objectives: Well-defined portfolio goals and objectives
Strong leadership: Effective Programme Manager leadership
Active participation: Engaged participation from all projects
Open communication: Transparent and frequent communication
Flexible coordination: Adaptive coordination mechanisms

Portfolio Challenges and Mitigation

Portfolio management may face several challenges:

Coordination complexity: Managing multiple projects with different timelines and objectives
Communication overhead: Ensuring effective communication across all projects
Resource allocation: Balancing individual project needs with portfolio objectives
Conflict resolution: Managing potential conflicts between projects

Portfolio Outcomes and Impact

The portfolio approach aims to achieve outcomes that go beyond individual project results:

Collective breakthroughs: Breakthroughs that emerge from portfolio collaboration
Systemic impact: Impact on entire technology ecosystems
Knowledge networks: Durable networks of expertise and collaboration
Innovation ecosystems: Sustainable innovation ecosystems

Future Portfolio Development

Successful portfolios may lead to:

Follow-on funding: Additional funding for portfolio expansion
Ecosystem development: Development of broader innovation ecosystems
Policy influence: Influence on relevant policy and regulatory frameworks
International collaboration: Expansion to international partnerships

12. Business Acceleration Services

Business Acceleration Services (BAS) are a comprehensive suite of support services provided to EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries to help maximize the impact of their research and prepare for future commercialization. These services are designed to bridge the gap between breakthrough research and market success.

Comprehensive Support Ecosystem

In addition to funding, successful EIC Pathfinder applicants receive tailor-made access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services. These services are designed to help beneficiaries maximize the impact of their research and prepare for future commercialization, ensuring that breakthrough scientific discoveries have the best possible chance of translating into real-world innovations.

Core Business Acceleration Services

The EIC provides a comprehensive range of BAS services including:

Coaching and mentoring: Expert guidance on research commercialization and business development
Expertise provision: Access to specialized knowledge and technical expertise
Ecosystem connections: Networking opportunities with potential partners, investors, and customers
Market intelligence: Information about market opportunities and competitive landscape
Investment readiness support: Preparation for future funding rounds and investor presentations

EIC Business Coaches

EIC business coaches provide direct EIC services to beneficiaries, offering personalized guidance and support throughout the project lifecycle. These coaches bring extensive experience in technology commercialization and business development, helping beneficiaries navigate the complex path from research to market.

International Trade Fairs Programme 4.0

The International Trade Fairs programme 4.0 provides EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries with opportunities to showcase their innovations at major international trade fairs and exhibitions. This programme helps beneficiaries:

Gain visibility in international markets
Connect with potential partners and customers
Understand market trends and competitive landscape
Build international networks and partnerships
Validate market interest in their innovations

Financial Support for Ecosystem Services

The EIC provides financial support to access services from Ecosystem partners, enabling beneficiaries to tap into specialized expertise and resources that may not be available through direct EIC services. This support helps beneficiaries access:

Specialized technical expertise
Market research and analysis
Intellectual property services
Regulatory and compliance guidance
Industry-specific knowledge and networks

EIC Scaling Club 2.0

The EIC Scaling Club 2.0 is a dedicated programme for high-potential EIC beneficiaries who are ready to scale their innovations. This programme provides:

Intensive scaling support and guidance
Access to scaling expertise and resources
Networking with other scaling companies
Investment readiness preparation
Market expansion support

Tech2Market BAS Services

Dedicated Business and Innovation Acceleration Services are provided to EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition beneficiaries, supporting transition from lab to market. These Tech2Market BAS services are specifically designed to help beneficiaries:

Develop commercialization strategies
Identify market opportunities
Build business models
Prepare for investment
Navigate regulatory requirements

Tailored Service Provision

Business Acceleration Services are tailored to the specific needs of each beneficiary, taking into account:

Technology maturity: The current TRL level and development stage
Market readiness: The level of market validation and customer engagement
Team capabilities: The existing skills and expertise of the team
Industry sector: The specific industry and market characteristics
Geographic focus: The target markets and regions

Service Delivery Models

BAS services are delivered through various models to ensure maximum effectiveness:

One-on-one coaching: Personalized guidance and support
Group workshops: Collaborative learning and networking opportunities
Online platforms: Digital tools and resources for self-service
Expert consultations: Access to specialized expertise on demand
Peer networks: Communities of practice and peer learning

Investment Readiness Support

Investment readiness is a key focus of BAS services, helping beneficiaries prepare for future funding rounds and investor presentations. This support includes:

Business plan development: Creating comprehensive business plans
Financial modeling: Developing financial projections and models
Pitch preparation: Creating compelling investor presentations
Due diligence preparation: Preparing for investor due diligence
Valuation support: Understanding company and technology valuation

Market Intelligence and Analysis

BAS services provide access to market intelligence and analysis to help beneficiaries understand their market opportunities:

Market research: Comprehensive market analysis and insights
Competitive analysis: Understanding competitive landscape and positioning
Customer insights: Understanding customer needs and preferences
Industry trends: Tracking relevant industry trends and developments
Regulatory landscape: Understanding relevant regulations and requirements

Intellectual Property Support

BAS services include comprehensive support for intellectual property management:

IP strategy development: Creating comprehensive IP strategies
Patent support: Assistance with patent filing and prosecution
IP valuation: Understanding the value of IP assets
Licensing support: Assistance with licensing negotiations and agreements
IP protection: Strategies for protecting IP in different markets

Regulatory and Compliance Support

BAS services help beneficiaries navigate regulatory and compliance requirements:

Regulatory guidance: Understanding relevant regulations and requirements
Compliance planning: Developing compliance strategies and plans
Certification support: Assistance with certification processes
Standards compliance: Understanding and meeting relevant standards
Regulatory networking: Connecting with regulatory experts and authorities

International Expansion Support

BAS services support international expansion and market entry:

Market entry strategies: Developing strategies for entering new markets
International networking: Building networks in target markets
Cultural and business guidance: Understanding local business cultures and practices
Legal and regulatory support: Understanding local legal and regulatory requirements
Partnership development: Identifying and developing international partnerships

Technology Transfer Support

BAS services support technology transfer and commercialization:

Technology assessment: Evaluating technology readiness and market potential
Commercialization planning: Developing comprehensive commercialization plans
Partner identification: Identifying potential commercialization partners
Licensing support: Assistance with licensing negotiations and agreements
Spin-off support: Support for creating spin-off companies

Network and Community Building

BAS services facilitate network and community building:

Peer networks: Connecting with other EIC beneficiaries
Industry networks: Building connections within relevant industries
Investor networks: Connecting with potential investors
Expert networks: Access to specialized expertise and knowledge
International networks: Building international connections and partnerships

Success Metrics and Impact

BAS services are designed to deliver measurable impact:

Commercialization success: Successful technology commercialization
Investment attraction: Attracting investment and funding
Market entry: Successful market entry and expansion
Partnership development: Developing strategic partnerships
Job creation: Creating employment opportunities

Continuous Improvement

The BAS programme continuously evolves based on beneficiary feedback and market needs:

Feedback collection: Regular collection of beneficiary feedback
Service evaluation: Continuous evaluation of service effectiveness
Innovation in services: Development of new services and approaches
Partnership expansion: Expanding partnerships with service providers
Technology integration: Integrating new technologies and platforms

13. Booster Grants and Additional Support

Booster grants represent an additional funding opportunity for EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries, providing supplementary support for activities that go beyond the scope of the main project but are essential for future success. These grants are designed to enhance the impact and commercialization potential of EIC Pathfinder projects.

Booster Grant Overview

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible to receive Booster grants of a fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000 to undertake complementary activities to explore potential pathways to commercialisation or for portfolio activities.

Eligibility for Booster Grants

Booster grants are available to projects funded through EIC Pathfinder, including projects funded under the Horizon 2020 EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open, FET-Proactive, CSA and CSA Lump sum FET Innovation Launchpad, and FET Flagships calls. The eligible calls include all EIC Pathfinder calls under Horizon Europe and specific Horizon 2020 calls.

Grant Amount and Structure

Booster grants provide a fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000. This funding is designed to be flexible and can be used for various complementary activities that support the main project objectives and enhance future commercialization potential.

Purpose and Objectives

Booster grants serve several key purposes:

Commercialization exploration: Exploring potential pathways to commercialization
Portfolio activities: Supporting collaborative activities within Challenge portfolios
Market validation: Conducting additional market research and validation
Technology development: Supporting additional technology development activities
Partnership development: Building strategic partnerships and collaborations

Types of Supported Activities

Booster grants can support a wide range of complementary activities:

Market research and analysis: Additional market studies and competitive analysis
Technology validation: Additional testing and validation activities
Intellectual property activities: Patent filing, IP strategy development
Business model development: Refining business models and value propositions
Partnership development: Building relationships with potential partners
Investment preparation: Preparing for future funding rounds
Regulatory compliance: Addressing regulatory and compliance requirements
Portfolio collaboration: Supporting collaborative activities within Challenge portfolios

Application Process

The application process for Booster grants is designed to be streamlined and accessible:

Eligibility verification: Confirming eligibility based on previous EIC funding
Proposal submission: Submitting a focused proposal for the booster activities
Evaluation: Evaluation based on relevance and potential impact
Approval: Approval and grant agreement preparation

Evaluation Criteria

Booster grant applications are evaluated based on:

Relevance: How relevant are the proposed activities to the main project?
Impact potential: What is the potential impact of the proposed activities?
Feasibility: How feasible are the proposed activities?
Value for money: Is the proposed use of funds cost-effective?
Alignment: How well do the activities align with EIC objectives?

Grant Limitations

A maximum of three EIC Booster grants projects can be awarded for each EIC Pathfinder project and more than three may be awarded in exceptional and duly justified cases. This limitation ensures that resources are distributed fairly across the EIC portfolio.

Project Identification Requirements

Each Booster grant project has to clearly identify to which EIC Pathfinder or EIC transition project it relates. This requirement ensures transparency and enables the EIC to track the impact of booster activities on the main projects.

Additional Support Opportunities

In addition to Booster grants, EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries have access to several other support opportunities:

EIC Transition Funding

Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

Next Generation Innovation Talents Scheme

Business Acceleration Services

All EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries receive access to comprehensive Business Acceleration Services, including coaching, mentoring, expertise provision, and ecosystem connections. These services are designed to maximize the impact of research and prepare for future commercialization.

Portfolio Activities Support

For EIC Pathfinder Challenges, beneficiaries receive support for portfolio activities that involve collaboration between projects within the Challenge Portfolio. This includes funding for collaborative activities and support from dedicated Programme Managers.

Intellectual Property Support

The EIC provides support for intellectual property protection and management, including guidance on IP strategy development, support for patent filing and protection, and assistance with licensing and technology transfer.

Open Science Support

The programme provides support for open science practices, including guidance on open access publishing, support for data management and sharing, and assistance with research dissemination strategies.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries have access to various networking and collaboration opportunities:

EIC community events: Regular events and workshops for EIC beneficiaries
Cross-project collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with other EIC projects
International networking: Access to international networks and partnerships
Industry partnerships: Facilitation of industry partnerships and collaborations
Academic collaboration: Support for academic collaboration and knowledge exchange

Communication and Dissemination Support

The EIC provides support for effective communication and dissemination of research results:

Communication strategy development: Assistance in developing communication strategies
Media and public relations support: Support for media engagement and public relations
Conference and workshop organization: Assistance in organizing events and presentations
Digital communication tools: Access to digital communication platforms and tools
Stakeholder engagement: Support for engaging with relevant stakeholders

Impact Assessment and Monitoring

The programme provides tools and support for impact assessment and monitoring:

Impact measurement frameworks: Tools for measuring project impact
Performance monitoring: Support for monitoring project performance
Evaluation methodology: Guidance on evaluation approaches and methods
Long-term impact tracking: Support for tracking long-term impact
Success story development: Assistance in developing success stories and case studies

Financial Management and Reporting Support

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries receive support for financial management and reporting:

Financial reporting guidance: Guidance on financial reporting requirements
Budget management tools: Tools and support for budget management
Audit support: Support for audit preparation and compliance
Cost eligibility verification: Assistance in verifying cost eligibility
Financial risk management: Support for managing financial risks

Success Factors for Additional Support

To maximize the benefits of additional support opportunities, beneficiaries should:

Plan strategically: Develop strategic plans for utilizing additional support
Engage actively: Actively engage with available support services
Network effectively: Build and maintain effective networks
Document progress: Document progress and achievements
Seek feedback: Actively seek feedback and guidance

14. Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

The Fast Track scheme provides EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries with expedited access to the EIC Accelerator programme, creating a seamless pathway from breakthrough research to market deployment. This scheme is designed to accelerate the transition of promising technologies from the laboratory to commercial success.

Fast Track Overview

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible to submit EIC Accelerator proposals via the Fast Track scheme. This scheme provides expedited access to the EIC Accelerator programme for market deployment and scaling, offering funding of up to EUR 2.5 million in grants and up to EUR 15 million in equity investment.

Eligibility for Fast Track

Fast Track access is available to projects funded through EIC Pathfinder, including projects funded under the Horizon 2020 EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open, FET-Proactive, CSA and CSA Lump sum FET Innovation Launchpad, and FET Flagships calls. The eligible calls include all EIC Pathfinder calls under Horizon Europe and specific Horizon 2020 calls.

Fast Track Benefits

The Fast Track scheme provides several key benefits to EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries:

Expedited access: Streamlined application process for EIC Accelerator
Reduced evaluation time: Faster evaluation and decision-making process
Priority consideration: Priority consideration in the EIC Accelerator evaluation
Continuity of support: Seamless transition from research to commercialization
Enhanced credibility: Proven track record through EIC Pathfinder funding

EIC Accelerator Funding

Successful Fast Track applications to EIC Accelerator can receive:

Grant funding: Up to EUR 2.5 million in grant funding
Equity investment: Up to EUR 15 million in equity investment through the EIC Fund
Business acceleration services: Comprehensive support for market deployment
Network access: Access to EIC Accelerator networks and partnerships

Technology Readiness Requirements

To be eligible for Fast Track to EIC Accelerator, technologies must meet minimum TRL requirements. Since 2025, the minimum TRL for EIC Accelerator is TRL 6, which means the technology must be validated in a relevant environment. This requirement ensures that only technologies ready for market deployment are considered for Fast Track access.

Fast Track Application Process

The Fast Track application process is designed to be streamlined and efficient:

Eligibility verification: Confirming eligibility based on previous EIC Pathfinder funding
Application submission: Submitting a comprehensive EIC Accelerator application
Fast Track evaluation: Expedited evaluation process
Interview process: Streamlined interview with EIC Accelerator jury
Funding decision: Accelerated funding decision process

Fast Track Evaluation Criteria

Fast Track applications are evaluated using the same criteria as regular EIC Accelerator applications, but with expedited processing:

Excellence: Quality and novelty of the technology
Impact: Market potential and societal impact
Implementation: Quality of the team and implementation plan
Investment readiness: Readiness for investment and market deployment

Advantages of Fast Track

Fast Track provides several advantages over regular EIC Accelerator applications:

Proven track record: Demonstrated success through EIC Pathfinder funding
Established credibility: Recognition as a high-quality EIC beneficiary
Reduced risk: Lower perceived risk due to previous EIC support
Faster processing: Expedited evaluation and decision-making
Priority consideration: Priority in the evaluation process

Preparation for Fast Track

To maximize the chances of Fast Track success, EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries should:

Plan early: Begin planning for Fast Track during the Pathfinder project
Track progress: Monitor TRL progression and market readiness
Build relationships: Develop relationships with EIC Accelerator team
Prepare documentation: Maintain comprehensive project documentation
Engage with BAS: Actively engage with Business Acceleration Services

Fast Track Success Factors

Successful Fast Track applications typically demonstrate:

Clear TRL progression: Demonstrated advancement from Pathfinder to Accelerator TRL levels
Market validation: Evidence of market interest and customer validation
Strong team: Experienced and capable team for market deployment
Clear business model: Well-defined business model and market strategy
Investment readiness: Preparation for investment and scaling

Fast Track Timeline

The Fast Track process follows an accelerated timeline:

Application submission: Submit application during open EIC Accelerator calls
Evaluation period: Expedited evaluation process
Interview phase: Streamlined interview with EIC Accelerator jury
Funding decision: Accelerated funding decision
Project start: Quick transition to EIC Accelerator project

Fast Track Support Services

Fast Track applicants receive additional support services:

Application guidance: Specialized guidance for Fast Track applications
Preparation support: Support for preparing Fast Track applications
Interview preparation: Assistance with interview preparation
Transition planning: Support for planning the transition to EIC Accelerator

Fast Track Portfolio Considerations

Fast Track applications are considered in the context of the broader EIC Accelerator portfolio:

Portfolio balance: Ensuring balanced portfolio across technology areas
Geographic distribution: Maintaining geographic diversity in the portfolio
Market focus: Balancing different market sectors and applications
Risk diversification: Managing risk across the portfolio

Fast Track Success Stories

Successful Fast Track transitions demonstrate the effectiveness of the EIC innovation pipeline:

Technology advancement: Successful progression from research to market
Market success: Successful market entry and commercialization
Investment attraction: Attracting significant investment and funding
Job creation: Creating employment and economic impact
Innovation leadership: Establishing European innovation leadership

Fast Track Challenges and Mitigation

Fast Track applicants may face several challenges:

TRL requirements: Meeting the minimum TRL 6 requirement
Market readiness: Demonstrating sufficient market readiness
Team capabilities: Building a team capable of market deployment
Competition: Competing with other high-quality applications

Fast Track Best Practices

Best practices for successful Fast Track applications include:

Early planning: Begin Fast Track planning early in the Pathfinder project
TRL monitoring: Continuously monitor and document TRL progression
Market engagement: Actively engage with potential customers and markets
Team development: Build a strong team for market deployment
Documentation: Maintain comprehensive project documentation

Fast Track Impact

The Fast Track scheme has significant impact on the European innovation ecosystem:

Accelerated innovation: Faster transition from research to market
Reduced risk: Lower risk for investors and stakeholders
Enhanced success rates: Higher success rates for EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries
Innovation pipeline: Strengthened innovation pipeline from research to market
European competitiveness: Enhanced European competitiveness in innovation

Future Fast Track Development

The Fast Track scheme continues to evolve and improve:

Process optimization: Continuous optimization of the Fast Track process
Success rate improvement: Efforts to improve Fast Track success rates
Support enhancement: Enhanced support services for Fast Track applicants
Impact measurement: Improved measurement of Fast Track impact
Best practice sharing: Sharing of best practices and lessons learned

15. Pathway to EIC Transition

The pathway from EIC Pathfinder to EIC Transition represents a critical step in the innovation pipeline, enabling successful Pathfinder projects to mature their technologies and prepare for market deployment. EIC Transition provides the necessary support for technology maturation and validation beyond the experimental proof of principle stage.

EIC Transition Overview

EIC Transition funds innovation activities that go beyond the experimental proof of principle in laboratory (applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3). It supports both the maturation and validation of novel technology from the lab to the relevant application environments as well as explorations and development of a sustainable business plan and business model towards commercialisation into high potential markets.

Eligibility for EIC Transition

Projects funded through EIC Pathfinder (including grants resulting from certain EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open and Proactive calls) may be eligible to submit EIC Transition proposals. The eligible calls include all EIC Pathfinder calls under Horizon Europe and specific Horizon 2020 calls.

Technology Readiness Requirements

EIC Transition is restricted to proposals based on results generated by eligible projects that are, at least, at experimental proof of concept (applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 or, ideally, technology validated in the lab level (TRL 4)). Proposals building on project results at other TRLs level are not eligible.

Eligible Source Projects

EIC Transition is restricted to proposals based on results generated by the following eligible projects:

EIC Pathfinder projects: Including projects funded under the Horizon 2020 EIC pilot Pathfinder, FET-Open, FET-Proactive, CSA and CSA Lump sum FET Innovation Launchpad, and FET Flagships calls
European Research Council Proof of Concept projects: Funded under Horizon 2020 or Horizon Europe
Research and Innovation Actions: Funded under Horizon 2020 Societal challenges and Leadership in Industrial Technologies and under Horizon Europe pillar II, with an eligible TRL
European Defence Fund projects: Including the Preparatory Action on Defence Research, but only for proposals focused on civil applications (including dual use)
Research Infrastructures projects: Funded under the Horizon Europe or Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructures part

Timing Requirements

Specific timing requirements apply for EIC Transition applications:

Ongoing projects: If applying on the basis of an eligible project for which the grant is still ongoing, you may apply if the start date of the grant is more than 18 months before the cutoff date of the relevant EIC Transition call
Completed projects: If applying on the basis of an eligible project which has already been completed, you may apply within 24 months of the completion of the project (i.e. the end date of the grant for the eligible project is less than 24 months from the cut-off date of the relevant EIC Transition call)

EIC Transition Objectives

EIC Transition aims at maturing both technology and business idea thus increasing its technology and market/commercial readiness. The expected outcomes of an EIC Transition project are:

Technology maturation: A technology that is demonstrated to be effective for its intended application
Business validation: A validated business model and a business plan for its development to market
IP protection: Adequate formal protection of the intellectual property generated

EIC Transition Pathways

EIC Transition can support several different pathways beyond fundamental research:

Focused collaborative projects: To further develop strategic and high impact technologies towards specific applications while improving also the market readiness towards a promising market application
Individual SME projects: Where an individual SME (including start-ups, spin-offs) identifies a market opportunity to apply the results of an eligible project towards a specific market application
Entrepreneurial researcher projects: Where a team of entrepreneurial researchers within a research or technology organisation want to turn selected project results into a viable product

Funding and Support

EIC Transition provides comprehensive funding and support:

Grant funding: Between EUR 0.5 million and EUR 2.5 million
Project duration: Between 1 and 3 years
Funding rate: 100% of eligible costs
Lump sum funding: Simplified financial management through lump sum funding

Additional Support Opportunities

Projects funded through EIC Transition are eligible for additional support:

Booster grants: Fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000 for complementary activities
Fast Track to EIC Accelerator: Expedited access to EIC Accelerator programme
Business Acceleration Services: Comprehensive BAS support and matchmaking events
Tech2Market BAS services: Dedicated support for lab-to-market transition

Application Process

The EIC Transition application process involves:

Eligibility verification: Confirming eligibility based on previous project results
Proposal submission: Submitting comprehensive proposal via Funding & Tenders Portal
Expert evaluation: Evaluation by EIC expert evaluators
Jury interview: Interview with EIC Jury for shortlisted proposals
Funding decision: Final funding decision and grant agreement preparation

Evaluation Criteria

EIC Transition proposals are evaluated against three main criteria:

Excellence (Threshold: 4/5): Technological breakthrough, objectives, and methodology
Impact (Threshold: 4/5): Credibility of impacts, economic and societal benefits, and investment readiness
Quality and efficiency of implementation (Threshold 3/5): Team quality, KPIs and milestones, and workplan

Jury Interview Process

Shortlisted proposals are invited for an interview with an EIC Jury:

Interview panel: Maximum of five persons can represent the proposal
Jury composition: Between four and six members, may include EIC Programme Manager
Evaluation focus: Team quality, business plan, business model, milestones and KPIs
Decision outcomes: GO, GO Reserve, or NO GO recommendation

Success Factors for EIC Transition

Successful EIC Transition applications typically demonstrate:

Clear TRL progression: Demonstrated advancement from TRL 3-4 to TRL 5-6
Market validation: Evidence of market interest and customer validation
Strong team: Experienced team with mix of technical and business skills
Clear business model: Well-defined business model and market strategy
IP protection: Adequate IP protection and exploitation strategy

Preparation for EIC Transition

To prepare for successful EIC Transition, Pathfinder beneficiaries should:

Monitor TRL progression: Track technology readiness level advancement
Engage with markets: Begin market research and customer engagement
Develop business model: Start developing business model and strategy
Protect IP: Ensure adequate IP protection
Build team: Develop team with business and technical capabilities

EIC Transition Impact

EIC Transition has significant impact on the European innovation ecosystem:

Technology maturation: Successful maturation of breakthrough technologies
Market readiness: Enhanced market readiness of innovations
Commercialization success: Successful commercialization of research results
Investment attraction: Attraction of private investment
Job creation: Creation of employment opportunities

Future Pathways After EIC Transition

Successful EIC Transition projects can pursue several pathways:

EIC Accelerator: Apply for EIC Accelerator for market deployment
Private investment: Seek private investment and funding
Licensing agreements: Enter licensing agreements with established companies
Spin-off creation: Create spin-off companies
Market deployment: Direct market deployment and commercialization

Best Practices for EIC Transition

Best practices for successful EIC Transition include:

Early planning: Begin Transition planning during the Pathfinder project
Market engagement: Actively engage with potential customers and markets
Team development: Build a balanced team with technical and business skills
IP strategy: Develop comprehensive IP protection and exploitation strategy
Business model validation: Validate business model with potential customers

EIC Transition Success Stories

Successful EIC Transition projects demonstrate the effectiveness of the innovation pipeline:

Technology advancement: Successful progression from research to market-ready technology
Market success: Successful market entry and commercialization
Investment attraction: Attracting significant investment and funding
Partnership development: Developing strategic partnerships and collaborations
Innovation leadership: Establishing European innovation leadership

16. Intellectual Property and Open Access

Intellectual Property (IP) and Open Access policies are fundamental aspects of the EIC Pathfinder programme, ensuring that breakthrough research results are both protected for future exploitation and disseminated for scientific advancement. The programme employs a balanced approach that supports both commercial development and scientific dissemination.

IP Policy Overview

For the EIC Pathfinder, provisions will be applied to ensure open access to scientific publications and promote the uptake of research results. The programme requires adequate formal protection of the generated Intellectual Property (IP), which includes industrial property (patents, trademarks, designs and geographic indications of source) and copyright.

IP Protection Requirements

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries are expected to take the necessary measures in the course of the project to allow future uptake to take place. This includes adequate formal protection of the generated Intellectual Property (IP), a plan for future exploitation and an assessment of relevant aspects related to regulation, certification, and standardisation.

IP Rights and Access

The inventors of results generated by EIC Pathfinder and Transition projects may be entrusted with appropriate access rights for the purpose of further development and exploitation. Exploitation activities may be eligible to additional financial support through the EIC Fund or other funding mechanisms.

Open Access Requirements

The EIC Pathfinder programme operates under the principle of open science, requiring beneficiaries to publish their results in open access formats. Project results should include top-level scientific publications in open access, ensuring that scientific knowledge is widely disseminated and accessible to the research community.

Balanced Approach to IP and Open Access

IP Strategy Development

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries are encouraged to develop comprehensive IP strategies that include:

IP identification: Systematic identification of potentially valuable IP
Protection planning: Strategic planning for IP protection
Exploitation strategy: Development of IP exploitation strategies
Risk management: IP risk assessment and management
Freedom to operate: Analysis of freedom to operate

Patent Protection

Patent protection is a key aspect of IP strategy for EIC Pathfinder projects:

Patent filing: Strategic patent filing to protect key innovations
Patent strategy: Development of comprehensive patent strategies
Patent portfolio management: Management of patent portfolios
Patent valuation: Assessment of patent value and potential
Patent licensing: Development of patent licensing strategies

Copyright and Publications

Publication rights: Management of publication rights and permissions
Open access publishing: Publication in open access journals and repositories
Copyright protection: Protection of copyright in creative works
Licensing agreements: Development of licensing agreements for copyrighted materials

Trade Secrets and Know-How

Trade secrets and know-how protection is important for maintaining competitive advantage:

Confidentiality agreements: Use of confidentiality agreements to protect trade secrets
Know-how protection: Protection of technical know-how and expertise
Information security: Implementation of information security measures
Employee agreements: Agreements with employees regarding IP protection

IP Exploitation Strategies

EIC Pathfinder beneficiaries should develop comprehensive IP exploitation strategies:

Commercialization planning: Planning for IP commercialization
Licensing strategies: Development of licensing strategies
Spin-off creation: Creation of spin-off companies to exploit IP
Partnership development: Development of partnerships for IP exploitation
Investment attraction: Use of IP to attract investment

Open Science Practices

The programme promotes open science practices including:

Open access publishing: Publication in open access journals and repositories
Data sharing: Sharing of research data and materials
Open source software: Development and sharing of open source software
Open hardware: Development and sharing of open hardware designs
Open standards: Development and adoption of open standards

IP and Consortium Agreements

Consortium agreements should address IP issues comprehensively:

IP ownership: Clear definition of IP ownership
Access rights: Definition of access rights to IP
Exploitation rights: Definition of exploitation rights
Revenue sharing: Agreement on revenue sharing from IP exploitation
Dispute resolution: Mechanisms for resolving IP disputes

IP and Third Party Rights

EIC Pathfinder projects must respect third party IP rights:

Freedom to operate: Analysis of freedom to operate
Third party licenses: Obtaining necessary third party licenses
IP clearance: IP clearance and validation
Risk assessment: Assessment of IP-related risks

IP and International Considerations

International IP considerations are important for EIC Pathfinder projects:

International patent filing: Strategic international patent filing
Regional IP protection: Protection of IP in different regions
International licensing: International licensing strategies
Cross-border enforcement: Cross-border IP enforcement

IP and Standardization

IP and standardization are closely related in many technology areas:

Standard essential patents: Identification and management of standard essential patents
Standardization participation: Participation in standardization activities
FRAND licensing: Fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory licensing
Standard development: Development of new standards

IP and Regulatory Compliance

IP activities must comply with relevant regulations:

Patent law compliance: Compliance with patent laws and regulations
Copyright law compliance: Compliance with copyright laws and regulations
Competition law compliance: Compliance with competition laws
Export control compliance: Compliance with export control regulations

IP and Innovation Management

Effective IP management supports innovation:

Innovation tracking: Tracking of innovations and IP creation
IP portfolio management: Management of IP portfolios
IP valuation: Valuation of IP assets
IP strategy alignment: Alignment of IP strategy with innovation strategy

IP and Business Development

IP supports business development activities:

Market positioning: Use of IP for market positioning
Competitive advantage: IP as a source of competitive advantage
Investment attraction: Use of IP to attract investment
Partnership development: Use of IP in partnership development

IP and Technology Transfer

IP is central to technology transfer activities:

Technology licensing: Licensing of technology to third parties
Spin-off creation: Creation of spin-off companies
Joint ventures: Formation of joint ventures
Research collaborations: IP in research collaborations

IP and Risk Management

IP risk management is essential for project success:

IP risk assessment: Assessment of IP-related risks
Risk mitigation strategies: Development of risk mitigation strategies
Insurance coverage: IP insurance coverage
Contingency planning: Contingency planning for IP issues

IP and Success Metrics

IP success can be measured through various metrics:

Patent filings: Number and quality of patent filings
Patent grants: Number of patents granted
IP revenue: Revenue generated from IP
IP licensing: Number and value of IP licenses
IP enforcement: Success in IP enforcement actions

Future IP Considerations

Future IP considerations for EIC Pathfinder projects include:

Emerging technologies: IP considerations for emerging technologies
Digital transformation: IP in the digital transformation era
Global competition: IP in global competition
Sustainability: IP considerations for sustainability

17. Key Dates and Deadlines 2026

The EIC Pathfinder programme operates on specific timelines and deadlines that are crucial for successful application and project implementation. Understanding these key dates is essential for planning and preparing competitive proposals.

EIC Pathfinder Open Timeline

The EIC Pathfinder Open call follows a specific timeline for 2026:

Call opening: XX 2026 (exact date to be confirmed)
Application deadline: 6 May 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time
Evaluation completion: Within 5 months from the call deadline (indicative)
Grant agreement signature: By 8 months after the call deadline (indicative)

EIC Pathfinder Challenges Timeline

The EIC Pathfinder Challenges call follows a different timeline:

Call opening: 22-April-2025
Application deadline: 28 October 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time
Evaluation completion: By 5 months after call deadline (indicative)
Grant agreement signature: By 8 months after the call deadline (indicative)

Call Opening Flexibility

The Director-General responsible for the call may decide to open the call up to one month prior to or after the envisaged date(s) of opening. This flexibility allows for adjustments based on administrative or operational requirements.

Deadline Flexibility

The Director-General responsible may delay the deadline(s) by up to two months if necessary. This flexibility ensures that applicants have adequate time to prepare their proposals while maintaining the overall programme timeline.

Submission Platform Availability

The Funding & Tenders Portal will be available for proposal submission from the call opening date until the deadline. Applicants should monitor the portal for any updates or changes to submission requirements.

Pre-Submission Timeline

Applicants should plan their pre-submission activities carefully:

Consortium building: 6-12 months before deadline
Proposal development: 3-6 months before deadline
Internal review: 1-2 months before deadline
Final preparation: 2-4 weeks before deadline
Submission: At least 24 hours before deadline

Evaluation Timeline

The evaluation process follows a structured timeline:

Proposal submission: By deadline
Administrative check: 2-4 weeks after deadline
Expert evaluation: 2-3 months after deadline
Evaluation committee: 3-4 months after deadline
Results notification: 4-5 months after deadline

Grant Agreement Timeline

Successful applicants follow a specific timeline for grant agreement preparation:

Notification of success: 4-5 months after deadline
Grant agreement preparation: 1-2 months after notification
Grant agreement signature: 6-8 months after deadline
Project start: Within 2-3 months after signature

Project Implementation Timeline

EIC Pathfinder projects typically follow this implementation timeline:

Project start: Within 2-3 months after grant agreement signature
First reporting period: 6-12 months after project start
Mid-term review: 12-18 months after project start
Final reporting: At project end
Project closure: 3-6 months after project end

Support Services Timeline

Support services are available throughout the project lifecycle:

Pre-submission support: Available from call opening
Evaluation support: Available during evaluation period
Grant agreement support: Available during grant preparation
Project support: Available throughout project duration
Post-project support: Available after project completion

Important Reminders

Applicants should note several important timing considerations:

Deadline enforcement: Deadlines are strictly enforced - late submissions are not accepted
Portal availability: Submit proposals well before the deadline to avoid technical issues
Documentation requirements: Ensure all required documentation is prepared in advance
Consortium agreements: Consortium agreements should be in place before submission
Eligibility verification: Verify eligibility well before the deadline

Planning Recommendations

To ensure successful application, applicants should:

Start early: Begin planning 12-18 months before the deadline
Build consortium: Start consortium building 6-12 months before deadline
Develop proposal: Allow 3-6 months for proposal development
Review and revise: Allow 1-2 months for internal review and revision
Submit early: Submit at least 24 hours before the deadline

Monitoring and Updates

Applicants should monitor for updates and changes:

EIC website: Regular monitoring of EIC website for updates
Funding & Tenders Portal: Monitor portal for any changes
National Contact Points: Contact NCPs for updates and guidance
Email notifications: Subscribe to email notifications for updates

Contingency Planning

Applicants should have contingency plans for:

Technical issues: Plan for potential technical problems with submission
Timeline changes: Be prepared for potential deadline changes
Consortium changes: Plan for potential consortium member changes
Documentation issues: Have backup plans for documentation problems

Post-Submission Timeline

After submission, applicants should expect:

Confirmation receipt: Immediate confirmation of submission
Administrative check: 2-4 weeks for administrative validation
Evaluation period: 4-5 months for full evaluation
Results notification: Notification of results within 5 months
Next steps: Guidance on next steps for successful applicants

Future Planning

Applicants should also consider future opportunities:

Resubmission planning: Plan for potential resubmission if not successful
Alternative funding: Identify alternative funding opportunities
Partnership development: Continue developing partnerships for future calls
Capacity building: Continue building capacity for future applications

18. Success Factors and Best Practices

Success in EIC Pathfinder applications requires a comprehensive understanding of the programme's requirements and a strategic approach to proposal development. This section outlines the key success factors and best practices that can significantly increase the chances of securing EIC Pathfinder funding.

Essential Success Factors

Successful EIC Pathfinder applications typically demonstrate several key factors:

Breakthrough vision: A compelling and ambitious vision for radically new technology
Scientific excellence: High-quality, novel, and ambitious science-towards-technology breakthrough
High-risk approach: Genuine high-risk/high-gain research approach
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Effective interdisciplinary research and development
Strong consortium: Well-balanced consortium with complementary expertise

Proposal Development Best Practices

Effective proposal development follows several best practices:

Early planning: Begin proposal development 12-18 months before the deadline
Clear objectives: Define clear, measurable, and achievable objectives
Strong methodology: Develop robust and well-justified methodology
Risk management: Identify and address potential risks and challenges
Impact assessment: Clearly articulate expected impacts and outcomes

Consortium Building Best Practices

Successful consortium building requires careful planning and execution:

Complementary expertise: Ensure consortium members bring complementary skills and expertise
Geographic diversity: Include partners from different countries and regions
Balanced composition: Include academic, industrial, and SME partners
Clear roles: Define clear roles and responsibilities for each partner
Strong coordination: Ensure effective coordination and communication

Scientific Excellence Best Practices

Demonstrating scientific excellence is crucial for success:

Novel approach: Present genuinely novel and innovative approaches
State-of-the-art review: Comprehensive review of current state-of-the-art
Clear advancement: Clearly articulate how the project advances beyond current knowledge
Robust methodology: Develop robust and well-justified methodologies
Realistic objectives: Set ambitious but achievable objectives

Impact and Innovation Best Practices

Demonstrating potential impact and innovation is essential:

Market potential: Clearly articulate market potential and opportunities
Societal benefits: Demonstrate potential societal and economic benefits
Innovation pathway: Outline clear pathway from research to innovation
Stakeholder engagement: Plan for effective stakeholder engagement
Communication strategy: Develop comprehensive communication strategy

Implementation Quality Best Practices

High-quality implementation planning is crucial:

Clear work plan: Develop detailed and realistic work plan
Resource allocation: Ensure appropriate allocation of resources
Risk mitigation: Identify and plan for risk mitigation
Quality assurance: Implement quality assurance mechanisms
Monitoring and evaluation: Plan for effective monitoring and evaluation

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can significantly improve success rates:

Incremental research: Avoid proposing incremental improvements to existing technologies
Weak consortium: Avoid weak or unbalanced consortium composition
Unrealistic objectives: Avoid setting unrealistic or unachievable objectives
Poor methodology: Avoid poorly justified or weak methodologies
Inadequate impact assessment: Avoid weak or unclear impact assessment

Evaluation Criteria Alignment

Ensure strong alignment with evaluation criteria:

Excellence (60% weight): Focus on scientific excellence and breakthrough potential
Impact (20% weight): Emphasize potential impact and innovation
Implementation (20% weight): Demonstrate high-quality implementation planning

Threshold Requirements

Ensure all threshold requirements are met:

Excellence threshold: Minimum score of 4/5
Impact threshold: Minimum score of 3.5/5
Implementation threshold: Minimum score of 3/5

Proposal Structure Best Practices

Effective proposal structure enhances readability and evaluation:

Clear organization: Organize proposal in logical and clear structure
Executive summary: Include compelling executive summary
Consistent formatting: Use consistent formatting and style
Visual elements: Include relevant figures, tables, and diagrams
Appendices: Use appendices for detailed technical information

Writing Quality Best Practices

High-quality writing enhances proposal effectiveness:

Clear language: Use clear, concise, and professional language
Logical flow: Ensure logical flow and coherence
Evidence-based: Support claims with evidence and references
Consistent terminology: Use consistent terminology throughout
Proofreading: Thoroughly proofread and edit the proposal

Budget Planning Best Practices

Effective budget planning is crucial for success:

Realistic estimates: Provide realistic and well-justified cost estimates
Appropriate allocation: Allocate resources appropriately across work packages
Consortium balance: Ensure balanced resource allocation across consortium
Justification: Provide clear justification for all budget items
Contingency planning: Include appropriate contingency planning

Risk Management Best Practices

Effective risk management demonstrates project maturity:

Risk identification: Identify potential risks and challenges
Risk assessment: Assess likelihood and impact of risks
Mitigation strategies: Develop effective mitigation strategies
Contingency planning: Plan for contingencies and alternatives
Monitoring mechanisms: Establish risk monitoring mechanisms

Communication and Dissemination Best Practices

Effective communication and dissemination planning is important:

Target audience identification: Identify key target audiences
Communication strategy: Develop comprehensive communication strategy
Dissemination plan: Plan for effective dissemination of results
Stakeholder engagement: Plan for stakeholder engagement
Impact measurement: Plan for measuring communication impact

Team and Expertise Best Practices

Strong team and expertise are crucial for success:

Expertise balance: Ensure balanced expertise across consortium
Track record: Demonstrate strong track record of team members
Complementary skills: Include complementary skills and expertise
Leadership quality: Ensure strong project leadership
Team motivation: Demonstrate team motivation and commitment

Innovation and Commercialization Best Practices

Demonstrating innovation and commercialization potential is important:

Market analysis: Conduct thorough market analysis
Competitive advantage: Identify and articulate competitive advantages
Commercialization pathway: Outline clear commercialization pathway
IP strategy: Develop comprehensive IP strategy
Business model: Develop viable business model

Quality Assurance Best Practices

Quality assurance mechanisms enhance project credibility:

Review mechanisms: Establish internal review mechanisms
Quality standards: Define and implement quality standards
Monitoring systems: Establish monitoring and evaluation systems
Feedback mechanisms: Implement feedback and improvement mechanisms
Documentation standards: Establish documentation standards

Success Monitoring Best Practices

Effective success monitoring enhances project management:

KPIs definition: Define clear and measurable KPIs
Milestone planning: Plan clear and achievable milestones
Progress tracking: Establish progress tracking mechanisms
Reporting systems: Implement effective reporting systems
Evaluation framework: Develop comprehensive evaluation framework

Continuous Improvement Best Practices

Continuous improvement enhances long-term success:

Learning culture: Foster learning and improvement culture
Feedback integration: Integrate feedback into project planning
Adaptation mechanisms: Establish adaptation and improvement mechanisms
Knowledge sharing: Promote knowledge sharing and collaboration
Best practice adoption: Adopt and adapt best practices

19. Conclusion and Next Steps

The EIC Pathfinder programme represents Europe's premier funding instrument for breakthrough research and advanced technology development. Through its comprehensive support framework, the programme enables researchers and innovators to pursue ambitious visions for radically new technologies that have the potential to create new markets, solve global challenges, and drive European innovation leadership.

Programme Impact and Significance

The EIC Pathfinder programme has significant impact on the European innovation ecosystem:

Breakthrough innovation: Supporting the development of breakthrough technologies that can transform industries and societies
European competitiveness: Enhancing Europe's competitive position in global innovation
Economic growth: Driving economic growth through technology commercialization
Job creation: Creating employment opportunities in high-tech sectors
Global challenges: Addressing pressing global challenges through innovative solutions

Comprehensive Support Framework

The programme provides a comprehensive support framework that goes beyond traditional research funding:

Financial support: Generous funding of up to EUR 4.5 million per project
Business acceleration services: Comprehensive BAS support for commercialization
Portfolio management: Strategic portfolio management for Challenge projects
Network access: Access to extensive networks and partnerships
Pathway support: Clear pathways to EIC Transition and EIC Accelerator

Innovation Pipeline Integration

The EIC Pathfinder is strategically integrated into the broader EIC innovation pipeline:

Foundation stage: Serves as the foundation for breakthrough technology development
Progression pathways: Clear pathways to EIC Transition and EIC Accelerator
Continuous support: Continuous support throughout the innovation journey
Ecosystem integration: Integration with broader European innovation ecosystem

Key Success Factors

Success in EIC Pathfinder requires several key factors:

Breakthrough vision: Compelling vision for radically new technology
Scientific excellence: High-quality, novel, and ambitious research
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Effective interdisciplinary research approach
Strong consortium: Well-balanced and complementary consortium
Clear impact pathway: Clear pathway from research to impact

Strategic Importance

The EIC Pathfinder programme is strategically important for Europe's future:

Innovation leadership: Maintaining Europe's position as a global innovation leader
Strategic autonomy: Supporting Europe's strategic autonomy in key technologies
Sustainable development: Contributing to sustainable development goals
Digital transformation: Supporting Europe's digital transformation
Green transition: Supporting Europe's green transition objectives

Future Opportunities

The programme offers numerous future opportunities for successful beneficiaries:

EIC Transition: Pathway to EIC Transition for technology maturation
EIC Accelerator: Fast Track access to EIC Accelerator for market deployment
Booster grants: Additional funding through Booster grants
Private investment: Attraction of private investment and funding
International collaboration: Opportunities for international collaboration

Next Steps for Potential Applicants

Potential applicants should consider the following next steps:

Programme understanding: Develop comprehensive understanding of programme requirements
Consortium building: Begin building strong and complementary consortium
Proposal development: Start early proposal development process
Support engagement: Engage with available support services
Timeline planning: Plan according to key dates and deadlines

Support Resources Available

Numerous support resources are available to potential applicants:

EIC website: Comprehensive information and guidance
National Contact Points: Local support and guidance
Enterprise Europe Network: Business support and guidance
Challenge Guides: Specific guidance for Challenge applicants
Frequently Asked Questions: Answers to common questions

Strategic Planning Recommendations

Strategic planning is essential for successful application:

Long-term vision: Develop long-term vision for technology development
Market analysis: Conduct thorough market and competitive analysis
Risk assessment: Assess and plan for potential risks and challenges
Resource planning: Plan for adequate resources and capabilities
Partnership development: Develop strategic partnerships and collaborations

Quality Assurance and Excellence

Maintaining high quality and excellence is crucial:

Scientific rigor: Maintain high scientific standards and rigor
Innovation focus: Focus on genuine innovation and breakthrough potential
Impact orientation: Orient towards meaningful impact and outcomes
Continuous improvement: Implement continuous improvement processes
Best practice adoption: Adopt and adapt best practices

European Innovation Leadership

The EIC Pathfinder programme contributes to European innovation leadership:

Global competitiveness: Enhancing Europe's global competitiveness
Innovation ecosystem: Strengthening European innovation ecosystem
Talent attraction: Attracting and retaining top talent
Investment attraction: Attracting investment to Europe
Technology leadership: Establishing technology leadership in key areas

Sustainable Development Contribution

The programme contributes to sustainable development goals:

Environmental sustainability: Supporting environmental sustainability objectives
Social impact: Creating positive social impact
Economic development: Supporting economic development and growth
Global challenges: Addressing global challenges and opportunities
Future generations: Building a better future for coming generations

Call to Action

The EIC Pathfinder programme represents a unique opportunity for researchers and innovators to pursue their most ambitious visions for breakthrough technologies. With comprehensive support, generous funding, and clear pathways to commercialization, the programme provides the resources and framework needed to transform breakthrough ideas into reality.

Potential applicants are encouraged to:

Start early: Begin planning and preparation well in advance
Build strong consortia: Develop strong and complementary partnerships
Focus on excellence: Maintain high standards of scientific excellence
Plan for impact: Develop clear plans for achieving meaningful impact
Engage with support: Actively engage with available support services

Final Thoughts

The EIC Pathfinder programme represents Europe's commitment to fostering breakthrough innovation and maintaining global leadership in science and technology. Through its comprehensive support framework, the programme enables the development of technologies that can transform industries, solve global challenges, and create new opportunities for economic growth and societal benefit.

Success in the programme requires vision, excellence, collaboration, and determination. For those willing to take on the challenge of breakthrough innovation, the EIC Pathfinder programme provides the support, resources, and framework needed to turn ambitious visions into reality.

The future of European innovation depends on the success of programmes like EIC Pathfinder in fostering breakthrough technologies and supporting the researchers and innovators who develop them. By participating in this programme, applicants contribute not only to their own success but to the broader goal of maintaining Europe's position as a global innovation leader.

Eureka Network

Eureka Network offers multiple international collaborative R&D programs including Network Projects, Clusters, Eurostars, Globalstars, and Innowwide, with funding ranging from €50K to €6.75M per project depending on the specific program. The network focuses on market-driven innovation and deep-tech development across diverse technology sectors including ICT/Digital, Industrial/Manufacturing, Bio/Medical Technologies, Energy/Environment, Quantum, AI, and Circular Economy. Applicants include SMEs, large enterprises, research organizations, universities, and startups, with Eurostars specifically targeting R&D-performing SMEs.

Get Started

EIC Transition

EIC Transition provides up to €2.5 million in funding to bridge the 'valley of death' between laboratory research and market deployment, focusing on technology maturation and validation. The program supports single legal entities or small consortia of 2-5 partners including SMEs, start-ups, spin-offs, and research organizations. Technology areas include Health/Medical Technologies, Green/Environmental Innovation, Digital/Microelectronics, Quantum Technologies, and AI/Robotics.

Get Started

EIC STEP Scale-Up

EIC STEP Scale-Up offers substantial equity investments of €10-30 million for established deep-tech companies ready for hyper-growth and large-scale expansion. The program targets SMEs or small mid-caps with up to 499 employees who have secured pre-commitment from qualified investors. Focus areas include Digital & Deep Tech (Semiconductors, AI, Quantum), Clean Technologies for Net-Zero goals, and Biotechnologies.

Get Started

EIC Pre-Accelerator

EIC Pre-Accelerator is a 2025 pilot program providing €300,000-€500,000 in funding for early-stage deep-tech development and preparation for the EIC Accelerator program. The initiative is exclusively available to single SMEs or small mid-caps from 'Widening countries' to support regional innovation development. The program covers deep-tech innovations across physical, biological, and digital domains.

Get Started

EIC Pathfinder

EIC Pathfinder offers up to €3 million for Open calls and up to €4 million for Challenge-based calls to support early-stage research and development with proof-of-principle validation. The program requires research consortia with a minimum of 3 partners from 3 different countries, including universities, research organizations, and SMEs. Technology focus areas include Health/Medical, Quantum Technologies, AI, Environmental/Energy, and Advanced Materials.

Get Started

EIC Accelerator

EIC Accelerator provides flexible funding options including blended finance (€2.5M grant + €0.5M-€10M equity), grant-only (up to €2.5M), or equity-only arrangements for scale-up and market deployment of breakthrough innovations. The program targets SMEs, start-ups, and small mid-caps with up to 499 employees, with MedTech/Healthcare representing 35% of funded projects. Other technology areas include Biopharma, Energy, AI, Quantum, Aerospace, Advanced Materials, and Semiconductors.

Get Started

Innovation Partnership

Innovation Partnership facilitates collaborative innovation between public and private sectors with typical funding of €1-5 million per project. The program supports cross-sectoral strategic technologies through public-private partnerships and consortia. Projects focus on addressing societal challenges through collaborative innovation approaches.

Get Started

Innovation Fund

The EU Innovation Fund provides substantial funding of €7.5 million to €300 million for large-scale demonstration of innovative low-carbon technologies. The program targets clean energy, carbon capture, renewable energy, and energy storage technologies to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. Applicants include large companies, consortia, and public entities capable of implementing large-scale demonstration projects.

Get Started

Innovate UK

Innovate UK offers various programs with funding ranging from £25K to £10M depending on the specific initiative, supporting business-led innovation, collaborative R&D, and knowledge transfer. The organization funds projects across all sectors with particular focus on emerging technologies and supports UK-based businesses, research organizations, and universities. Programs are designed to drive economic growth through innovation and technology commercialization.

Get Started

Industrial Partnership

Industrial Partnership provides €2-10 million in funding for industrial research and innovation partnerships focusing on manufacturing, industrial technologies, and digital transformation. The program supports industrial consortia and research organizations in developing collaborative solutions for industrial challenges. Projects aim to strengthen European industrial competitiveness through strategic partnerships.

Get Started

Eurostars

Eurostars is a joint EU-Eureka program offering €50K-€500K for international R&D collaboration specifically led by SMEs. The program takes a bottom-up approach, accepting projects from all technology fields without predefined thematic restrictions. R&D-performing SMEs must lead the consortium and demonstrate significant R&D activities.

Get Started

LIFE Programme

The LIFE Programme provides €1-10 million in funding for environmental protection, climate action, and nature conservation projects across the European Union. The program supports environmental technologies, climate adaptation strategies, and biodiversity conservation initiatives. Applicants include public authorities, private companies, NGOs, and research institutions working on environmental and climate challenges.

Get Started

Neotec

Neotec is a Spanish program offering €250K-€1M in funding for technology-based business creation and development, supporting the growth of innovative Spanish SMEs and start-ups. The program covers all technology sectors and aims to strengthen Spain's technology ecosystem. Funding is specifically targeted at Spanish technology-based SMEs and start-ups to enhance their competitiveness and market presence.

Get Started

Thematic Priorities

EU Thematic Priorities encompass various programs aligned with EU strategic priorities including green transition, digital transformation, health, and security initiatives. Funding amounts vary based on the specific program and call requirements, with projects designed to address key European challenges. Applicant eligibility varies by specific program and call, with different requirements for different thematic areas.

Get Started

EIC AcceleratorHorizon Europe#grants#startup#deeptech

← Back to Posts

EIC Pathfinder 2026: Complete Guide to Europe's Advanced Research Funding Programme

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to EIC Pathfinder

2. Overview and Strategic Objectives

3. EIC Pathfinder Open

4. EIC Pathfinder Challenges

5. Eligibility Criteria and Who Can Apply

6. Funding Structure and Support Available

7. Application Process and Timeline

8. Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

9. Consortium Requirements and Composition

10. Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)

11. Portfolio Management and Programme Managers

12. Business Acceleration Services

13. Booster Grants and Additional Support

14. Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

15. Pathway to EIC Transition

16. Intellectual Property and Open Access

17. Key Dates and Deadlines 2026

18. Success Factors and Best Practices

19. Conclusion and Next Steps

Eureka Network

EIC Transition

EIC STEP Scale-Up

EIC Pre-Accelerator

EIC Pathfinder

EIC Accelerator

Innovation Partnership

Innovation Fund

Innovate UK

Industrial Partnership

Eurostars

LIFE Programme

Neotec

Thematic Priorities