The European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder continues its pivotal role in advancing Europe's cutting-edge research and technological innovations. The 2024 EIC Pathfinder funding cycle, which had a total of €138 million in requested budget, has now revealed its highly selective outcomes, with 45 projects chosen from 1,110 submissions. The selected projects will each receive approximately €3.07 million to drive revolutionary research aimed at transforming industries and solving pressing societal challenges.

With results published on September 5, 2024, after a submission deadline of March 7, 2024, this round of the EIC Pathfinder funding emphasizes innovation across various sectors and regions of Europe, reflecting a diverse geographical distribution of successful applicants (results).

Key Data from the EIC Pathfinder 2024

• Total requested budget: €138 million
• Average funding per project: €3.07 million
• Number of submissions: 1,110
• Projects selected for funding: 45
• Success rate: ~4.1%

Geographic Breakdown of Funded Projects

The distribution of the 45 selected projects spans across 17 countries, with Italy leading the charge by securing 10 projects (22.2%), followed by Austria and Spain, each with 5 projects (11.1%).

This broad representation highlights the collaborative and pan-European nature of the EIC Pathfinder program, which continues to fund projects not just within the EU, but also in associated countries such as Israel, the United Kingdom, and Norway.

Sectoral Focus of the Funded Projects

The EIC Pathfinder is known for supporting transformative research in a variety of domains, prioritizing high-risk, high-reward projects that could lead to significant breakthroughs. The 2024 funding round continues to reflect the EIC’s focus on sectors with the potential for long-term societal and economic impact. Although specific details on each funded project are yet to be fully disclosed, several key areas are traditionally emphasized in the EIC Pathfinder funding:

• Quantum Technologies: A priority area for Europe as it seeks to establish global leadership in quantum computing, communication, and sensing technologies. Italy and Germany, in particular, are home to several promising quantum research projects.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Projects leveraging AI for applications in healthcare, robotics, and industry have garnered significant attention. France and Spain are key contributors in AI-driven research.
• Sustainable Energy and Climate Technologies: The EU’s Green Deal and ambitious climate goals mean that energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy solutions, and environmental sustainability remain crucial areas for innovation. Austria and Sweden are particularly active in these areas.
• Biotechnology and Health Innovations: Biotechnology and personalized medicine continue to be hotbeds of research, with Finland, Greece, and the Netherlands focusing on biomedical advances and health technologies.
• Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology: The development of new materials with applications in various industries, from electronics to healthcare, is a key focus, with multiple projects exploring nanotechnology and materials science innovations.

Italy Leads the Pack

Italy's dominance in the 2024 EIC Pathfinder results, with 10 projects funded (22.2% of the total), is a testament to the country’s growing research capabilities and innovation ecosystem. Italian research teams have successfully positioned themselves at the forefront of European scientific advancements, particularly in sectors such as quantum technologies, renewable energy, and health technologies.

Austria and Spain: Significant Contributions

Austria and Spain, each with 5 funded projects, demonstrate their strength in areas such as AI, sustainable energy solutions, and advanced materials. Austria has a long-standing tradition of technological innovation, particularly in green technologies, while Spain has become a leader in AI research and digital transformation initiatives.

Notable Representation from Smaller Countries

Although the larger nations such as Italy, Germany, and France frequently dominate the headlines, smaller countries such as Norway, Greece, Finland, and Slovenia continue to punch above their weight in innovation. With projects from diverse areas like sustainable energy (Norway), advanced materials (Greece), and biotech (Finland), these countries are playing a pivotal role in Europe’s broader innovation landscape.

The Role of EIC Pathfinder in Europe’s Innovation Strategy

The EIC Pathfinder is a critical component of the European Union’s Horizon Europe program, fostering disruptive research that has the potential to address global challenges, from climate change to healthcare disparities. By funding early-stage projects that are often too risky for private investment, the EIC Pathfinder ensures that Europe remains at the cutting edge of technological and scientific advancements.

Each selected project will benefit from robust support, including €3.07 million in funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities, all aimed at accelerating their journey from concept to commercialization. The Pathfinder program is not just about advancing science; it’s about translating that science into marketable solutions that will drive Europe’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

What’s Next?

The 45 projects selected in 2024 will now embark on the challenging task of realizing their ambitious research goals. Over the next few years, these projects will work towards key milestones, with continuous monitoring and support from the EIC to ensure their progress. The next submission deadline for EIC Pathfinder is expected in early 2025, where more disruptive projects will be considered for funding, continuing the momentum built by the 2024 cohort.

Conclusion

The 2024 EIC Pathfinder funding round highlights Europe's commitment to supporting transformative research that has the potential to change the world. With 45 projects selected from 1,110 submissions, representing 17 countries, and an average funding of €3.07 million per project, the latest results underscore the breadth and depth of innovation occurring across Europe. Italy, Austria, and Spain are leading the charge, but smaller countries like Greece, Finland, and Slovenia are also making significant contributions.

As these projects move forward, they have the potential to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to healthcare. The EIC Pathfinder is ensuring that Europe remains a global leader in innovation, nurturing the ideas and technologies that will shape our future.

All Funded Projects