EIC Transition 2026: Complete Guide to Europe's Technology Validation and Business Development Programme

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to EIC Transition
2. Overview and Strategic Objectives
3. Purpose and Target Audience
4. Eligibility Criteria and Who Can Apply
5. Eligible Projects and Results
6. Funding Structure and Support Available
7. Application Process and Timeline
8. Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process
9. Consortium Options and Single Entity Applications
10. Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)
11. Business Development and Market Readiness
12. Different Pathways to Market
13. Business Acceleration Services
14. Booster Grants and Additional Support
15. Fast Track to EIC Accelerator
16. Intellectual Property and Access Rights
17. Tech2Market Business Acceleration Services
18. Key Dates and Deadlines 2026
19. Success Factors and Best Practices
20. Conclusion and Next Steps

1. Introduction to EIC Transition

The EIC Transition represents a critical bridge in Europe's innovation ecosystem, designed to address the notorious "valley of death" that exists between fundamental research breakthroughs and market-ready innovations. This programme specifically targets the maturation and validation of novel technologies that have demonstrated proof-of-concept in laboratory environments but require further development to reach commercial viability.

EIC Transition funds innovation activities that go beyond the experimental proof of principle in laboratory settings. Applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3) and the programme supports both the maturation and validation of novel technologies from the lab to relevant application environments. This is achieved through prototyping, formulation, models, user testing, or other validation tests, while simultaneously exploring and developing sustainable business plans and business models towards commercialisation in high-potential markets.

The programme operates on a fundamental principle: proposed activities must include further technology development on results achieved in a previous project and follow user-centric methodologies to increase chances of the innovation's future commercial success in the market. EIC Transition projects are designed to address, in a balanced way, both technology and market/business development, potentially including iterative learning processes based on early customer or user feedback.

These activities should include, subject to the level of maturity of the technology, a suitable mix of technology development and validation activities to increase the maturity of the technology beyond proof of concept to viable demonstrators of the technology in the intended field of application. Applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 and projects should progress up to TRL 5 to 6 at the end of the project.

The activities must in all cases address improving market readiness towards commercialisation and deployment. This includes market research, value proposition development, refining incipient business plans, validating incipient business models, intellectual property protection, and aspects of regulation, certification and standardisation where relevant. The ultimate goal is to get both the technology and the business idea investment-ready.

EIC Transition aims at maturing both technology and business ideas, thus increasing their technology and market/commercial readiness. The expected outcomes of an EIC Transition project are: a) a technology that is demonstrated to be effective for its intended application, and b) a validated business model and a business plan for its development to market. It is also expected that the intellectual property generated by the EIC Transition project is formally protected in an adequate way.

The programme can support several different pathways beyond fundamental research, from technology development and product design to business modelling and commercialisation strategy to reach the market. These pathways include:

• Focused collaborative projects: Further development of strategic and high-impact technologies towards specific applications while improving market readiness towards a promising market application. This pathway typically requires collaboration among several applicants ('multi-beneficiary' approach) including SMEs, research performers, technology transfer offices and potential users/customers.
• Individual SME initiatives: 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. This pathway may require, or lead to, a licensing arrangement with the SME and could involve collaboration between the result owner(s) of the eligible project and the interested SME.
• Entrepreneurial research teams: A team of entrepreneurial researchers within a research or technology organisation who want to turn selected project results into a viable product by looking for a suitable business model or creating a start-up or spin-off company. This may involve collaboration with the host research or technology organisation, as well as their technology transfer offices.

Technology Transfer Offices or business schools are actively encouraged to participate in EIC Transition projects, as they can play a key role in enabling and supporting researchers with the development and commercialisation of their research results.

At the end of an EIC Transition project, participants should be ready for the next stage, which can be to apply for EIC Accelerator (if they are an SME, including start-ups or spin-offs), seek other investors or sources of funding, enter licensing or collaboration agreements with third parties, or pursue other routes to market deployment. In cases where the project is not led by an SME or commercial partner, the formation and spin-out of a new company can be included as part of the activities.

Participants are expected to describe the intended pathway and route to market in their proposal and must include specific milestones together with concrete and verifiable KPIs during the implementation of their project to assess progress towards the market. The EIC Transition project is expected to mature innovation both in its TRL and market and business readiness from the beginning of the project, with both tracks going in parallel and interacting between them.

Applicants to EIC Transition can submit proposals through an EIC Transition Open call which has no predefined thematic priorities and is open to proposals in any field of science, technology or application, in line with the Do No Significant Harm principle.

2. Overview and Strategic Objectives

The EIC Transition programme is strategically positioned within the European Innovation Council's funding landscape to address a critical gap in the innovation pipeline. It serves as the essential bridge between fundamental research breakthroughs and market-ready innovations, specifically targeting technologies that have demonstrated proof-of-concept but require systematic development to reach commercial viability.

The programme's strategic positioning is defined by four fundamental questions that potential applicants must answer affirmatively:

1. Commercial Potential Identification: Have you identified EU-funded project result(s) with promising commercial potential that could be the basis for ground-breaking innovations and promising new businesses?
2. Technology Maturity Assessment: Is this novel promising technology ready for the next steps towards its maturation and validation, to be further developed and validated for some specific, high potential, commercial applications?
3. Market Research Validation: Have you conducted a preliminary market research to identify potential markets for your innovation and explored potential competitors?
4. Team Capability Assessment: Do you envisage building a motivated and entrepreneurial team with a mix of skills, including researchers, business people, marketers etc. to develop and drive the idea towards commercial success?

If the answer to each and every of these questions is a clear 'yes', then EIC Transition may be the right call for the applicant.

Strategic Objectives

The EIC Transition programme pursues several interconnected strategic objectives that align with the broader European innovation policy framework:

1. Technology Maturation and Validation

The primary objective is to support the maturation and validation of novel technologies from laboratory environments to relevant application environments. This involves moving beyond experimental proof of principle through systematic development activities including prototyping, formulation, models, user testing, and other validation tests.

2. Business Model Development

The programme aims to facilitate the exploration and development of sustainable business plans and business models towards commercialisation in high-potential markets. This includes market research, value proposition development, business plan refinement, and business model validation.

3. Investment Readiness

A key strategic objective is to prepare both technologies and business ideas for investment readiness. This encompasses intellectual property protection, regulatory compliance, certification processes, and standardisation activities where relevant.

4. Market Pathway Development

The programme supports the development of clear pathways to market deployment, including direct exploitation, spin-off creation, licensing arrangements, or other commercialisation routes.

5. Ecosystem Integration

EIC Transition aims to strengthen the European innovation ecosystem by facilitating collaboration between research organisations, SMEs, start-ups, technology transfer offices, and potential users/customers.

Strategic Positioning within the EIC Portfolio

EIC Transition occupies a critical position within the EIC funding continuum:

• Upstream Connection: It builds directly upon results from EIC Pathfinder projects, ERC Proof of Concept projects, and other eligible Horizon Europe and Horizon 2020 research initiatives.
• Downstream Pathway: It prepares successful projects for potential progression to EIC Accelerator funding, private investment, or other commercialisation routes.
• Technology Readiness Focus: It specifically targets technologies at TRL 3-4, advancing them to TRL 5-6 by project completion.
• Dual-Track Development: It simultaneously advances both technological maturity and market/business readiness in parallel, integrated processes.

Strategic Innovation Pathways

The programme supports three distinct strategic pathways for innovation development:

1. Collaborative Technology Development

Focused collaborative projects that further develop strategic and high-impact technologies towards specific applications while improving market readiness. This pathway typically involves multi-beneficiary consortia including SMEs, research performers, technology transfer offices, and potential users/customers.

2. SME-Driven Commercialisation

Individual SMEs (including start-ups and spin-offs) that identify market opportunities to apply eligible project results towards specific market applications. This may involve licensing arrangements and collaboration with result owners from the original research projects.

3. Research-to-Business Transformation

Entrepreneurial research teams within research or technology organisations seeking to transform selected project results into viable products through business model development or start-up/spin-off creation.

Strategic Impact Objectives

The programme's strategic impact objectives include:

• European Innovation Leadership: Strengthening Europe's position in breakthrough technologies and game-changing innovations
• Market Creation: Supporting the development of new European and global markets through innovative technologies
• Economic Growth: Contributing to European economic competitiveness and job creation through successful technology commercialisation
• Strategic Autonomy: Reducing European dependence on external technology sources in critical areas
• Societal Benefits: Addressing major societal challenges through innovative technological solutions

These strategic objectives are pursued through a comprehensive funding and support framework that combines financial resources with business acceleration services, ensuring that promising technologies have the best possible chance of successful market deployment and commercial success.

3. Purpose and Target Audience

The EIC Transition programme serves a specific and critical purpose within the European innovation ecosystem: to bridge the gap between promising research results and market-ready innovations. The programme is designed to address the "valley of death" that exists between fundamental research breakthroughs and commercial applications, providing systematic support for technologies that have demonstrated proof-of-concept but require targeted development to reach commercial viability.

Primary Purpose

The fundamental purpose of EIC Transition is to support innovation activities that go beyond the experimental proof of principle in laboratory settings. The programme specifically targets technologies that have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3) and supports their maturation and validation through systematic development processes.

The programme's core purpose encompasses several interconnected objectives:

• Technology Maturation: Supporting the advancement of novel technologies from laboratory environments to relevant application environments through prototyping, formulation, models, user testing, and other validation tests
• Business Development: Facilitating the exploration and development of sustainable business plans and business models towards commercialisation in high-potential markets
• Market Validation: Enabling the validation of technologies in real-world application environments to demonstrate their effectiveness and commercial potential
• Investment Preparation: Preparing both technologies and business ideas for investment readiness through comprehensive development and validation processes

Target Audience

The EIC Transition programme is designed for a diverse range of innovation actors who meet specific eligibility criteria and can demonstrate the potential for successful technology commercialisation.

Primary Target Groups

The programme targets three main categories of applicants:

1. Research Performing Organisations

Universities, research organisations, and technology organisations that have developed promising research results and seek to advance them towards commercial applications. This includes:

• Teams of entrepreneurial researchers within research or technology organisations
• Individual Principal Investigators and inventors in such institutions
• Research teams seeking to create spin-off companies
• Technology Transfer Offices actively supporting researchers

2. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Small and medium enterprises, including start-ups and spin-offs, that have identified market opportunities to apply research results towards specific market applications. This includes:

• Start-ups and spin-offs seeking to commercialise research results
• SMEs looking to develop new products or services based on research outcomes
• Companies seeking licensing arrangements with research result owners
• Innovative SMEs with strong commercialisation capabilities

3. Innovation Ecosystem Actors

Various actors within the innovation ecosystem who can contribute to the successful commercialisation of research results:

• Technology Transfer Offices
• Business schools and entrepreneurship support organisations
• User/customer organisations and potential end users
• Regulatory and standardisation bodies
• Industry partners and larger companies (as consortium members)

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for EIC Transition funding, applicants must meet specific requirements related to their project foundation and organisational structure:

Project Foundation Requirements

All EIC Transition proposals must build on results already achieved within eligible projects that are, at minimum, at experimental proof of concept level. Specifically:

• Applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3)
• Ideally, technology should be validated in the lab level (TRL 4)
• Proposals building on project results at other TRL levels 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 (EDF) projects: Including the Preparatory Action on Defence Research, but only for proposals focused on civil applications (including dual use)
• Research Infrastructure projects: Funded under the Horizon Europe or Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructures part

Timing Requirements

Specific timing requirements apply depending on the status of the source project:

• Ongoing projects: If applying on the basis of an eligible project for which the grant is still ongoing, the start date of the grant must be 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, applications must be submitted within 24 months of the completion of the project

Organisational Structure Options

Applicants can apply for EIC Transition in three different organisational configurations:

1. Single Legal Entity (Mono-beneficiary)

Available to start-ups, SMEs, or research performing organisations (universities, research or technology organisations, including teams, individual Principal Investigators and inventors who intend to form a spin-off company). Larger companies that do not qualify as SMEs are not eligible to apply as a single legal entity.

2. Small Consortium

Two independent legal entities from two different Member States or Associated Countries.

3. Multi-beneficiary Consortium

Minimum three and maximum five eligible independent legal entities following standard rules, including 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.

Participation Requirements

All applicants must meet specific participation requirements:

• Geographic eligibility: All entities must be established in EU Member States or Associated Countries
• IPR requirements: Applicants must demonstrate appropriate intellectual property rights ownership or access
• Market pathway specification: Applicants must specify which path to market they will explore during project execution
• Active involvement: Individual SMEs or those in consortia who are main partners for bringing innovation to market must be actively involved in research, development and commercialisation activities

The programme is designed to be inclusive and encourages new participants, including start-ups, SMEs, and other innovation actors, even if they were not part of the original research projects. This approach facilitates the transfer of research results to organisations with strong commercialisation capabilities.

4. Eligibility Criteria and Who Can Apply

The EIC Transition programme has comprehensive eligibility criteria that ensure only the most promising and well-prepared projects receive funding. These criteria are designed to maximise the chances of successful technology commercialisation while maintaining high standards for project quality and feasibility.

General Eligibility Requirements

All applicants must meet the general eligibility requirements outlined in Annex 2 of the Work Programme, in addition to the specific requirements described for EIC Transition. These general requirements ensure that all participants are properly established and capable of undertaking the proposed activities.

Specific EIC Transition Eligibility Criteria

1. Technology Readiness Level Requirements

The most critical eligibility criterion for EIC Transition is the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of the source technology:

• Minimum TRL requirement: Applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3)
• Optimal TRL level: Ideally, technology should be validated in the lab level (TRL 4)
• Maximum TRL restriction: Proposals building on project results at other TRL levels are not eligible
• Overall assessment: In cases where there are different components, the overall TRL of the technology/innovation in the application domain will be assessed

This TRL requirement ensures that projects have moved beyond basic research and have demonstrated proof-of-concept, but still require systematic development to reach commercial viability.

2. Eligible Source Projects

EIC Transition is restricted to proposals based on results generated by specific eligible projects. The following project types qualify as source projects:

EIC Pathfinder Projects

• Projects funded under the Horizon 2020 EIC pilot Pathfinder
• FET-Open projects
• FET-Proactive projects
• CSA and CSA Lump sum FET Innovation Launchpad projects
• FET Flagships calls

European Research Council Projects

• ERC Proof of Concept projects funded under Horizon 2020
• ERC Proof of Concept projects funded under Horizon Europe

Research and Innovation Actions

• Projects funded under Horizon 2020 Societal challenges and Leadership in Industrial Technologies
• Projects funded under Horizon Europe pillar II, with an eligible TRL
• Projects funded under the cross-cutting activities part of the Horizon 2020 Work Programmes drawing from budgets of Pillar II and III

European Defence Fund Projects

• EDF projects, including the Preparatory Action on Defence Research
• Research projects, but only for proposals focused on civil applications (including dual use)

Research Infrastructure Projects

• Research and Innovation Actions funded under the Horizon Europe Research Infrastructures part
• Research and Innovation Actions funded under the Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructures part

3. Timing Requirements

Specific timing requirements apply depending on the status of the source project:

Ongoing Projects

If applying on the basis of an eligible project for which the grant is still ongoing, the start date of the grant must be 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, applications must be submitted within 24 months of the completion of the project (i.e., the end date of the grant for the eligible project must be less than 24 months from the cut-off date of the relevant EIC Transition call).

4. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Requirements

IPR requirements are critical for EIC Transition eligibility and vary depending on whether the applicant was part of the original project:

Original Project Participants

If the applicant(s) eligible for funding were part of the eligible project whose results are further developed in the EIC Transition proposal, they must confirm in their proposal that they are the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) owner or holder and have the necessary rights to commercialise the results of the project for the whole duration of the EIC Transition project.

New Participants

If the applicant(s) eligible for funding were not part of the eligible project whose results are further developed in the EIC Transition proposal, the applicant/coordinator must include in their proposal a commitment letter from the owner(s) of the relevant result(s). This letter must confirm the commitment to negotiate fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory access to such results, including IPR, for the purpose of future commercial exploitation for the whole duration of the EIC Transition project.

5. Application Documentation Requirements

All applicants must provide specific documentation to demonstrate eligibility:

• Grant identification: Specify the grant number and acronym of the eligible project(s) which generated the result
• Result reporting reference: Provide reference to where the result has been reported (in the periodic reporting, the Horizon results platform, EIC Transition 'innovation discovery' tool powered by the Innovation Radar, or CORDIS)
• Funding verification: Prove that the grant from which the result was generated was funded by Horizon 2020 or Horizon Europe by specifying the relevant grant number and acronym as indicated in the Funding & Tenders Portal

6. Organisational Structure Eligibility

Applicants can apply in three different organisational configurations, each with specific eligibility criteria:

Single Legal Entity (Mono-beneficiary)

• Available to start-ups, SMEs, or research performing organisations
• Includes universities, research or technology organisations
• Includes teams, individual Principal Investigators and inventors who intend to form a spin-off company
• Larger companies (i.e., which do not qualify as SMEs) are not eligible to apply as a single legal entity

Small Consortium

• Two independent legal entities from two different Member States or Associated Countries
• Both entities must be eligible for funding

Multi-beneficiary Consortium

• Minimum three and maximum five eligible independent legal entities
• Must include at least one legal entity established in a Member State
• Must include at least two other independent legal entities, each established in different Member States or Associated Countries
• Consortia of more than 5 eligible entities will be deemed ineligible

7. Geographic Eligibility

All participating entities must be established in:

• EU Member States
• Associated Countries to Horizon Europe

8. Application Restrictions

Several restrictions apply to EIC Transition applications:

One Proposal Per Source Project

Only one proposal can be submitted per eligible originating ERC Proof of Concept funded in Horizon 2020 or Horizon Europe and FET Innovation Launchpad project. This does not affect resubmission of the same (improved) proposal in subsequent calls if it was not selected, provided all eligibility criteria are respected.

Civil Applications Focus

Applications under the EIC Transition Funding scheme must focus exclusively on civil applications. The goal is to mature and validate novel technology developed in the base project and improve its market readiness.

Communication Networks Restriction

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.

9. Ineligible Project Types

The following project types are explicitly excluded from eligibility:

• Grants funded via financial support to third parties (e.g., ERA NETs/co-funded partnerships, EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities) as it is not possible to verify if the result was generated by such projects
• Projects that do not meet the minimum TRL requirements
• Projects outside the specified time windows
• Projects without proper IPR documentation

Special Considerations

Several special considerations apply to EIC Transition eligibility:

• New participants welcome: Applicants do not need to be participants, Principal Investigators or result owners of the previous projects. New participants including start-ups, SMEs or other innovation actors are welcome and encouraged to apply.
• Timing advice: As the duration of base projects can vary greatly, it is strongly advised that applicants apply to Transition only well into the 2nd part of their project and only when they are sure they can give a clear yes to the three questions mentioned in the beginning of the Transition Work Programme text.
• Market pathway specification: The applicant must specify which path to market will be explored and pursued during the execution of the EIC Transition project: direct exploitation by coordinator or beneficiary, creation of a spin-off company in a Member State or an Associated Country, licensing to an established company (not part of the consortium), or other path to be described.

These comprehensive eligibility criteria ensure that only the most promising and well-prepared projects receive EIC Transition funding, maximising the programme's impact on European innovation and technology commercialisation.

5. Eligible Projects and Results

The EIC Transition programme is specifically designed to build upon and advance results from previous EU-funded research and innovation projects. Understanding what constitutes eligible projects and results is crucial for potential applicants, as this forms the foundation upon which all EIC Transition proposals must be built.

Definition of Eligible Projects

EIC Transition is restricted to proposals based on results generated by specific categories of EU-funded projects. These projects must have been funded under recognised EU research and innovation programmes and must have generated results that meet the programme's Technology Readiness Level (TRL) requirements.

Categories of Eligible Source Projects

1. EIC Pathfinder Projects

EIC Pathfinder projects represent one of the primary sources of eligible results for EIC Transition applications. This category includes:

Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder Projects

• EIC Pathfinder Open projects
• EIC Pathfinder Challenge projects
• Projects funded under the current Horizon Europe framework

Horizon 2020 EIC Pilot Projects

• EIC pilot Pathfinder projects
• FET-Open projects
• FET-Proactive projects
• CSA (Coordination and Support Action) projects
• CSA Lump sum FET Innovation Launchpad projects
• FET Flagships calls

2. European Research Council (ERC) Projects

ERC Proof of Concept projects are specifically designed to bridge the gap between research results and commercial applications, making them highly relevant for EIC Transition:

• ERC Proof of Concept projects funded under Horizon 2020
• ERC Proof of Concept projects funded under Horizon Europe

3. Research and Innovation Actions (RIA)

Research and Innovation Actions funded under various EU programmes can serve as source projects, provided they meet the TRL requirements:

Horizon 2020 Societal Challenges

• Projects addressing major societal challenges
• Projects with eligible TRL levels (TRL 3-4)
• Projects that have generated demonstrable research results

Horizon 2020 Leadership in Industrial Technologies

• Industrial technology development projects
• Cross-cutting activities projects
• Projects drawing from budgets of Pillar II and III

Horizon Europe Pillar II

• Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness projects
• Projects with eligible TRL levels
• Projects that have generated transferable results

4. European Defence Fund (EDF) Projects

EDF projects can serve as source projects, but with specific restrictions:

• EDF projects, including the Preparatory Action on Defence Research
• Research projects, but only for proposals focused on civil applications
• Dual-use applications are permitted
• Pure military applications are not eligible

5. Research Infrastructure Projects

Research infrastructure projects can generate results eligible for EIC Transition:

• Research and Innovation Actions funded under the Horizon Europe Research Infrastructures part
• Research and Innovation Actions funded under the Horizon 2020 Research Infrastructures part
• Projects that have developed technologies or methodologies with commercial potential

Characteristics of Eligible Results

Not all results from eligible projects automatically qualify for EIC Transition. The results must meet specific criteria:

1. Technology Readiness Level Requirements

The results must demonstrate appropriate technological maturity:

• Minimum TRL: Results must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3)
• Optimal TRL: Results should ideally be at TRL 4 (technology validated in lab)
• Maximum TRL: Results should not exceed TRL 4, as higher TRL levels indicate technologies that are too mature for Transition funding

2. Commercial Potential

The results must demonstrate clear commercial potential:

• Evidence of market demand or application
• Clear value proposition
• Potential for competitive advantage
• Scalability potential

3. Innovation Characteristics

The results should represent genuine innovation:

• Novel technological approaches or solutions
• Breakthrough or disruptive potential
• Significant improvement over existing solutions
• Potential for intellectual property protection

Documentation Requirements for Eligible Results

Applicants must provide comprehensive documentation to demonstrate the eligibility of their source results:

1. Project Identification

• Grant number: The specific grant number of the source project
• Project acronym: The official acronym of the source project
• Funding programme: Clear identification of the funding programme (Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, etc.)

2. Result Reporting References

Results must be properly documented and reported in official EU systems:

• Periodic reporting: References to where results are reported in project periodic reports
• Horizon results platform: Results listed on the official Horizon results platform
• Innovation Radar: Results listed on the EIC Transition 'innovation discovery' tool powered by the Innovation Radar
• CORDIS: Results documented in the Community Research and Development Information Service

3. Result Description

Detailed description of the specific results being advanced:

• Technical description of the technology or innovation
• Current TRL assessment with justification
• Evidence of proof-of-concept achievement
• Description of the innovation's unique features

Ineligible Project Types

Certain project types are explicitly excluded from serving as source projects for EIC Transition:

1. Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP) Projects

• ERA NETs and co-funded partnerships
• EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities
• Other projects using FSTP mechanisms
• Reason: It is not possible to verify if the result was generated by such projects

2. Projects with Inappropriate TRL Levels

• Projects with results below TRL 3 (too early stage)
• Projects with results above TRL 4 (too mature for Transition)
• Projects without clear proof-of-concept demonstration

3. Projects Outside Specified Time Windows

• Ongoing projects less than 18 months old
• Completed projects more than 24 months old
• Projects without proper documentation of completion dates

Special Considerations for Result Eligibility

1. Multiple Source Projects

EIC Transition proposals can build upon results from multiple eligible projects, provided:

• All source projects meet eligibility criteria
• Clear justification for combining results from different projects
• Proper documentation for all source projects
• Coherent integration of different result types

2. Result Evolution and Development

The EIC Transition project should represent genuine advancement of the source results:

• Clear progression beyond the original proof-of-concept
• Development towards specific applications or markets
• Integration of business and market considerations
• Preparation for commercial deployment

3. Intellectual Property Considerations

Results must have appropriate IPR status:

• Clear ownership or access rights to the results
• Freedom to operate for commercial exploitation
• Appropriate protection strategies
• Compliance with EU IPR regulations

Verification and Validation Process

The eligibility of source projects and results is subject to verification:

• Initial screening: Basic eligibility checks during proposal submission
• Expert evaluation: Detailed assessment by EIC expert evaluators
• Documentation review: Verification of all supporting documentation
• TRL assessment: Expert evaluation of technology readiness levels
• IPR verification: Confirmation of intellectual property rights

Understanding these eligibility requirements is essential for potential applicants, as they form the foundation for successful EIC Transition proposals. The programme's focus on building upon proven research results ensures that funded projects have a solid foundation for successful commercialisation.

6. Funding Structure and Support Available

The EIC Transition programme provides comprehensive financial support and additional services to help successful applicants advance their technologies from proof-of-concept to market-ready innovations. The funding structure is designed to cover the full range of activities necessary for successful technology maturation and business development.

Core Funding Structure

1. Grant Amounts and Ranges

The EIC Transition programme offers substantial financial support with the following parameters:

• Minimum grant amount: EUR 0.5 million
• Maximum grant amount: EUR 2.5 million
• Project duration: Between 1 and 3 years
• Funding rate: 100% of eligible costs

The EIC considers proposals with a requested EU contribution of more than EUR 0.5 million and less than EUR 2.5 million and duration between 1 and 3 years as appropriate for the programme's objectives.

2. Funding Mechanism

EIC Transition uses a lump sum funding mechanism:

• Form of funding: Lump sum grant for Research and Innovation Action
• Cost coverage: Covers eligible costs necessary for project implementation
• Amount determination: The lump sum amount is determined during the evaluation process
• Proposal requirement: Applicants must propose the amount of the lump sum based on their estimated project costs

The lump sum approach is defined in the Decision of 7 July 2021 authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2021-2027) – and in actions under the Research and Training Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (2021-2025).

3. Budget Allocation

The total indicative budget for the EIC Transition call is EUR [TBD] million, though the exact amount is determined annually based on available resources and programme priorities.

Additional Financial Support

1. Booster Grants

Projects funded through EIC Transition are eligible to receive additional financial support through Booster grants:

• Amount: Fixed amount not exceeding EUR 50,000
• Purpose: To undertake complementary activities to explore potential pathways to commercialisation or for portfolio activities
• Availability: Detailed information available in Annex 5 of the Work Programme
• Application process: Separate application process from main Transition funding

2. Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

Successful EIC Transition projects have privileged access to the EIC Accelerator programme:

• Direct access: Eligible to submit EIC Accelerator proposals via the Fast Track scheme
• Streamlined process: Simplified application process compared to standard Accelerator applications
• Detailed information: Available in Annex 3 of the Work Programme

Business Acceleration Services (BAS)

In addition to financial support, EIC Transition projects receive comprehensive business acceleration services:

1. Tailor-made BAS Access

Projects receive access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services and matchmaking events:

• Customised support: Services tailored to the specific needs of each project
• Comprehensive coverage: Access to the full range of EIC BAS services
• Matchmaking events: Opportunities to connect with potential partners, investors, and customers

2. Tech2Market BAS Services

Transition projects are expected and strongly encouraged to apply for Tech2Market BAS services:

• Specialised support: Services specifically designed for technology transfer and commercialisation
• Expert guidance: Access to specialised advisors and mentors
• Market validation: Support for market testing and validation activities

3. Mandatory Coaching

Coaching for Transition projects is mandatory unless well justified:

• Requirement: All projects must participate in coaching unless already provided by other ecosystem players
• Justification: Projects can opt out only if they can demonstrate equivalent support from other sources
• Focus areas: Business development, market strategy, investment readiness

4. Programme Manager Support

Projects are expected to follow up on recommendations from Programme Managers as well as from Innovation Radar experts:

• Expert guidance: Direct access to EIC Programme Managers
• Innovation Radar support: Expert analysis and recommendations
• Strategic advice: Guidance on project development and commercialisation strategy

Investor Readiness Training

Proposers who succeed in securing EIC Transition funding will be strongly encouraged to undertake specific training in the project's first year:

1. Training Components

• Business plan development: Comprehensive training in creating and refining business plans
• Investor pitch preparation: Training in developing compelling investor presentations
• Market strategy: Guidance on market positioning and competitive analysis

2. Training Provider

The Investor Readiness training is provided by EIC Business Acceleration Services, ensuring high-quality, specialised support for commercialisation activities.

Intellectual Property Support

The programme provides support for intellectual property protection and management:

• IP strategy development: Guidance on developing comprehensive IP strategies
• Protection mechanisms: Support for patent filing and other protection methods
• IP management: Training in effective IP portfolio management
• Commercialisation rights: Guidance on licensing and commercialisation strategies

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

EIC Transition projects benefit from extensive networking opportunities:

1. EIC Portfolio Integration

• Portfolio activities: Integration into broader EIC portfolio activities
• Cross-project collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with other EIC-funded projects
• Knowledge sharing: Access to best practices and lessons learned from other projects

2. Ecosystem Connections

• Industry partnerships: Connections with relevant industry players
• Investor networks: Access to EIC's network of investors and funding sources
• Academic collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with research institutions

Monitoring and Support Framework

The programme provides ongoing monitoring and support throughout the project lifecycle:

1. Project Monitoring

• Regular reporting: Structured reporting requirements to track progress
• Milestone tracking: Monitoring of key project milestones and deliverables
• KPI assessment: Evaluation of key performance indicators

2. Adaptive Support

• Flexible assistance: Support that adapts to project needs and challenges
• Risk mitigation: Assistance in identifying and addressing project risks
• Course correction: Support for adjusting project direction when necessary

Model Grant Agreement

The Model Grant Agreement can be found on the Funding & Tenders Portal, providing the legal framework for all EIC Transition projects. This agreement outlines:

• Legal obligations: Rights and responsibilities of all parties
• Financial terms: Detailed financial arrangements and reporting requirements
• Intellectual property: IPR provisions and access rights
• Project management: Administrative and management requirements

This comprehensive funding and support structure ensures that EIC Transition projects have access to all the resources necessary for successful technology maturation and commercialisation, maximising their chances of achieving market success and contributing to European innovation leadership.

7. Application Process and Timeline

The EIC Transition application process is designed to be comprehensive yet efficient, ensuring thorough evaluation of proposals while providing clear timelines and feedback to applicants. Understanding the application process and timeline is crucial for successful project submission and planning.

Application Deadline and Submission

1. Key Deadline

The deadline for submitting EIC Transition proposals is 16 September 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time. This deadline is strictly enforced, and late submissions will not be accepted.

2. Submission Platform

All proposals must be submitted via the Funding & Tenders Portal before the given deadline. The portal can be accessed directly or through the EIC website (https://eic.ec.europa.eu).

3. Call Opening

The call will open 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. The Director-General responsible may also delay the deadline(s) by up to two months if necessary.

Proposal Format and Requirements

1. Document Structure

The proposal must follow a specific structure and format:

• Cover page: Includes information about the related project on which the current EIC Transition proposal is built
• Sections 1 to 3: Main proposal content
• Page limit: Maximum of 22 format A4 pages for Sections 1 to 3 and the cover page
• Format requirements: Must be submitted in the specified format through the Funding & Tenders Portal

2. Required Content

The proposal must include comprehensive information covering:

• Project description: Detailed description of the proposed activities and objectives
• Source project information: Clear identification of the eligible source project(s)
• Technology readiness assessment: Current TRL level and justification
• Business development plan: Market strategy and commercialisation approach
• Team composition: Skills and expertise of the proposed team
• Milestones and KPIs: Specific, measurable objectives and success indicators
• Risk assessment: Identification and mitigation strategies for potential risks
• Budget justification: Detailed breakdown of requested funding

Evaluation Process and Timeline

1. First Evaluation Step - Remote Evaluation

The evaluation process begins with remote evaluation by EIC expert evaluators:

• Evaluation period: Approximately 9 weeks after the call deadline
• Evaluators: At least three EIC expert evaluators assess each proposal
• Scoring: Proposals are scored against each award criterion
• Feedback: Applicants receive detailed feedback on their proposal

2. Selection for Interview

Based on the remote evaluation results:

• Pool selection: A pool of the best-ranked proposals requesting aggregated financial support equal to approximately 2.2 times the budget available is invited to the next step
• Gender balance consideration: Special provisions ensure at least 30% of applications submitted by women-led SMEs or consortia are included in the interview pool
• Threshold requirements: All applicants invited to interview must have met all evaluation criteria thresholds from the remote evaluation

3. Second Evaluation Step - Jury Interview

Successful candidates from the first evaluation are invited for an interview:

• Interview timing: Approximately 11-13 weeks after the deadline
• Jury composition: Panel of maximum 6 EIC Jury members
• Representation: Maximum of five persons can represent the proposal at the interview
• Participant requirements: Only individuals mentioned in the proposal and involved in future project implementation can represent the proposal

4. Interview Process

During the interview, applicants must:

• Present their proposal: Convincingly pitch their proposal to the EIC Jury
• Answer questions: Address questions aimed at clarifying various aspects of the proposal
• Demonstrate capabilities: Showcase team quality, business plan elements, business model, milestones and KPIs
• Address implementation: Respond to questions related to implementation and KPIs

5. Jury Decision

The EIC Jury will make one of three recommendations:

• GO: Recommendation for funding
• GO Reserve: Placement on reserve list for potential funding if additional budget becomes available
• NO GO: No recommendation for funding

Timeline Summary

The complete application and evaluation process follows this timeline:

Additional Evaluation Features

1. European Patent Office (EPO) Analysis

The Agency will seek assistance from the European Patent Office to analyse the technological novelty, inventive merit, and proposed future strategy of EIC proposals shortlisted for EIC Jury interview:

• Expert assessment: EPO experts provide technical analysis
• Non-binding input: Assessment is provided 'for information' and is not binding
• Jury discretion: The EIC Jury has complete freedom to decide on the relevance of EPO input

2. Programme Manager Involvement

EIC Programme Managers may participate in the evaluation process:

• Expertise provision: Provide expertise in the applicant's area
• Portfolio management: Manage EIC Portfolios the project could be allocated to
• Information sharing: May provide information related to the original project
• Replacement option: Can be replaced by a Project Officer with relevant experience if unavailable

Feedback and Communication

1. Evaluation Summary Report

Applicants receive comprehensive feedback from the evaluation process:

• First step feedback: Evaluation Summary Report from the first evaluation step
• Interview feedback: Additional feedback from the jury for interviewed applicants
• Detailed comments: Specific comments on proposal strengths and areas for improvement

2. Seal of Excellence

Applicants who meet all evaluation criteria thresholds but are not selected for funding receive a Seal of Excellence:

• Recognition: Acknowledges the quality of the proposal
• Eligibility: Can be used to seek alternative funding sources
• Consortium awards: For consortia, the Seal is awarded to the coordinator, listing other participating legal entities

Post-Evaluation Process

1. Additional Verification

If the application is recommended for funding, additional checks may be performed:

• Scope verification: Verify that the application is within the scope of the call
• TRL verification: Confirm that the application is built upon results at TRL 3 or 4
• Eligibility confirmation: Final verification of all eligibility criteria

2. Grant Preparation

Successful applicants proceed to grant preparation:

• Agreement negotiation: Finalise terms of the grant agreement
• Documentation completion: Complete all required documentation
• Project planning: Detailed planning for project implementation

This comprehensive application process ensures that only the most promising and well-prepared projects receive EIC Transition funding, while providing clear feedback and support to all applicants throughout the process.

8. Evaluation Criteria and Selection Process

The EIC Transition programme employs a rigorous two-step evaluation process designed to assess both the technical merit and commercial viability of proposals. The evaluation criteria are specifically tailored to the programme's objectives of maturing technologies from proof-of-concept to market-ready innovations while developing robust business models and commercialisation strategies.

Two-Step Evaluation Process

The evaluation process consists of two distinct steps, each with specific criteria and thresholds:

• First Step: Remote evaluation by EIC expert evaluators
• Second Step: Face-to-face interview with EIC Jury

The following award criteria are applied coherently with the level of technological and business maturity expected from an EIC Transition proposal as described in the Work Programme.

First Evaluation Step - Remote Evaluation Criteria

During the first evaluation step, at least three EIC expert evaluators assess each proposal against three main criteria, each with specific sub-criteria and thresholds.

1. Excellence (Threshold: 4/5)

The Excellence criterion evaluates the quality and innovation potential of the proposed technology and approach:

1.1 Technological Breakthrough

• Novelty assessment: Does the technology have a high degree of novelty and higher performance compared to other technologies available or in development?
• Commercial potential: Does the technology indicate high commercial potential?
• Competitive advantage: What unique advantages does the technology offer over existing solutions?

1.2 Objectives

• Technology development objectives: How credible and feasible are the objectives for the planned technology development and maturation?
• Business development objectives: How credible and feasible are the objectives and KPIs for the planned business development process?
• Alignment: How well do the technology and business objectives align?

1.3 Methodology

• Timing assessment: Is the timing right for this technology/innovation (i.e., feasibility, minimum technological readiness level (TRL), unique selling points)?
• Approach validation: Is the proposed methodology appropriate for achieving the stated objectives?
• Risk consideration: Are the risks and challenges appropriately addressed?

2. Impact (Threshold: 4/5)

The Impact criterion assesses the potential commercial and societal impact of the proposed innovation:

2.1 Credibility of the Impacts

• Commercial impact assessment: To what extent are the expected commercial impact(s) described in the proposal credible and substantial within the project and beyond (e.g., one or several sectors, setting new standards, etc.)?
• Market validation: Is there evidence to support the claimed market potential?
• Scalability: Can the impact be scaled beyond the immediate project scope?

2.2 Economic and/or Societal Benefits

• Scale-up potential: To what extent does the proposed innovation have scale-up potential including high capacity to gain or create new European or global markets?
• European impact: To what extent is the proposed innovation expected to generate positive impacts for the European Union, Member States or Associated Countries (e.g., strategic autonomy, employment etc.)?
• Societal value: What broader societal benefits might the innovation deliver?

2.3 Investment Readiness and Go-to-Market Strategy

• Investment preparation: To what extent do the proposal and its activities contribute to making the technology and the team investment ready (including through IP protection and market validation)?
• Market strategy: Is there a well-defined and convincing go-to-market strategy and pathway?
• Regulatory considerations: Are regulatory approvals addressed (if relevant)?
• Time to market: Is the proposed timeline realistic?
• Business model: Is there a clear and viable business and revenue model?

3. Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation (Threshold: 3/5)

The Implementation criterion evaluates the project's execution plan and team capabilities:

3.1 Quality and Motivation of the Team

• Team capabilities: To what extent does the (project) team have the necessary high-quality capabilities and high motivation to move decisively towards market?
• Expertise assessment: To what extent do the applicant(s) have the necessary expertise to create a unique commercial value from the emerging technology and develop an attractive business and investment proposition?
• Track record: What is the team's history of successful project execution?

3.2 KPIs and Milestones

• Milestone definition: Are both milestones and KPIs present, relevant and clearly defined (measurable, timed, comparable etc.) to track progress along the pathway towards objectives?
• Risk identification: Have the main risks (e.g., technological, market, financial etc.) been identified, together with measures to mitigate in order to achieve the project objectives?
• Progress tracking: Are the proposed metrics appropriate for monitoring project success?

3.3 Workplan and Allocation of Resources

• Resource allocation: How appropriate and effective is the allocation of resources (person-months and equipment) between work packages and between project partners?
• Partnership justification: Is the number of project partners well justified?
• Efficiency assessment: Is the proposed approach efficient and cost-effective?

Second Evaluation Step - Jury Interview Criteria

The second evaluation step involves a face-to-face interview with an EIC Jury, which assesses proposals using GO/NO GO criteria for each main category:

1. Excellence (GO/NO GO)

1.1 Technological Breakthrough

• Scale-up potential: Does the technology/innovation – through its degree of novelty/disruptiveness and/or added value/value proposition for the users/customers – compared with competing technologies – have the scale-up potential including potential to create important new markets or significant impact in existing ones at European or global level?
• Competitive positioning: How does the technology compare to existing and emerging solutions?
• Market creation potential: Can the technology create new markets or significantly impact existing ones?

1.2 Objectives

• Ambition level: How ambitious yet credible and feasible are the objectives for the planned technology development and maturation?
• Business objectives: How credible and feasible are the objectives (and KPIs) for the planned business development process?
• Realistic assessment: Are the objectives challenging but achievable?

1.3 Methodology

• Timing validation: Is the timing right for this technology/innovation (i.e., feasibility, minimum technological readiness level (TRL), unique selling points)?
• Approach soundness: Is the proposed methodology robust and well-designed?
• Risk mitigation: Are the risks appropriately addressed?

2. Impact (GO/NO GO)

2.1 Credibility of the Impacts

• Business model assessment: Is the incipient proposed business model sound and promising?
• Impact realism: To what extent are the expected commercial impact(s) described realistic and substantial within the project and beyond?
• Evidence base: Is there sufficient evidence to support the claimed impacts?

2.2 Market and Economic Impacts

• Market identification: Have potential markets/use cases and users of the innovation been identified?
• European impact potential: Does the proposed innovation have high impact potential for the European Union, Member States or Associated Countries including high capacity to gain or create new European or global markets?
• Economic contribution: What economic benefits will the innovation deliver?

2.3 Investment Readiness and Go-to-Market Strategy

• Financing plans: Are the plans to ensure the subsequent financing of the technology/innovation (e.g., applying for EIC Accelerator, private investment, patenting/licensing, etc.) appropriate?
• Funding strategy: Is there a clear strategy for securing follow-on funding?
• Commercialisation pathway: Is the pathway to commercialisation well-defined?

3. Quality and Efficiency of the Implementation (GO/NO GO)

3.1 Quality and Motivation of the Team

• Capability assessment: Does the team have the capability, capacity and motivation to mature the proposed technological innovation and implement market-related activities?
• Execution readiness: Is the team ready to execute the proposed project?
• Market orientation: Does the team have the necessary market-focused mindset?

3.2 Risk Assessment

• Risk identification: Have the risks that might prevent the validation of the innovation in relevant application environment and/or its market success been appropriately considered?
• Risk mitigation: Are risks assessed, reduced and/or mitigated appropriately?
• Contingency planning: Are there appropriate contingency plans in place?

3.3 Workplan and Allocation of Resources

• Resource effectiveness: How appropriate and effective is the allocation of resources (person-months and equipment) between work packages and between project partners?
• Partnership capacity: Is the number of project partners well justified, and do they all have the operational capacity to execute well the project?
• Execution feasibility: Is the proposed workplan realistic and executable?

Scoring and Selection Process

1. First Step Scoring

In the first evaluation step:

• Individual scoring: At least three EIC expert evaluators score each proposal against each award criterion
• Average calculation: The overall score for each evaluation criterion is the average of the corresponding scores attributed by the individual evaluators
• Total score: The total score of the proposal is the sum of the overall scores from the three evaluation criteria
• Threshold requirements: Proposals must meet minimum thresholds for each criterion to proceed

2. Selection for Interview

Proposals are selected for the interview step based on:

• Ranking order: Starting with the highest scoring proposal and in descending order
• Budget consideration: A pool of the best ranked proposals requesting aggregated financial support equal to approximately 2.2 times the budget available is invited to the next step
• Gender balance: Special provisions ensure at least 30% of applications submitted by women-led SMEs or consortia are included in the interview pool

3. Jury Decision

The EIC Jury makes final funding recommendations:

• GO: Recommendation for funding
• GO Reserve: Placement on reserve list for potential funding if additional budget becomes available
• NO GO: No recommendation for funding

Additional Evaluation Features

1. European Patent Office (EPO) Analysis

The Agency seeks assistance from the European Patent Office to analyse:

• Technological novelty: Assessment of the innovation's novelty
• Inventive merit: Evaluation of the invention's technical merit
• Future strategy: Analysis of the proposed IP strategy

EPO experts provide their assessment to the EIC Jury as material 'for information'. The assessment is not binding, and the Jury has complete freedom to decide on its relevance.

2. Programme Manager Involvement

EIC Programme Managers may participate in the evaluation process to:

• Provide expertise: Offer specialised knowledge in the applicant's area
• Portfolio management: Ensure strategic coherence across funded projects
• Information sharing: Provide context about the original source project

Evaluation Feedback

All applicants receive comprehensive feedback from the evaluation process:

• First step feedback: Evaluation Summary Report with detailed comments on each criterion
• Interview feedback: Additional feedback from the jury for interviewed applicants
• Improvement guidance: Specific suggestions for proposal enhancement

This rigorous evaluation process ensures that only the most promising and well-prepared projects receive EIC Transition funding, maximising the programme's impact on European innovation and technology commercialisation.

9. Consortium Options and Single Entity Applications

The EIC Transition programme offers flexibility in organisational structure, allowing applicants to choose between single entity applications and various consortium configurations. This flexibility enables different types of innovation actors to participate in the programme while ensuring that the organisational structure is appropriate for the specific project needs and commercialisation objectives.

Organisational Structure Options

Applicants can apply for EIC Transition in three different organisational configurations, each with specific eligibility criteria and requirements:

1. Single Legal Entity (Mono-beneficiary)

The single entity option is available to specific types of organisations that can demonstrate the capability to undertake the full range of EIC Transition activities independently:

Eligible Single Entities

• Start-ups: Newly established companies with innovative business models
• SMEs: Small and medium enterprises that meet the EU definition
• Research performing organisations: Universities, research organisations, and technology organisations
• Individual researchers: Teams, individual Principal Investigators and inventors in research institutions who intend to form a spin-off company

Restrictions for Single Entities

• Larger companies: Companies that do not qualify as SMEs are not eligible to apply as a single legal entity
• Independence requirement: The entity must be independent and not controlled by larger organisations
• Capability demonstration: Must demonstrate the capability to undertake all required activities

Advantages of Single Entity Applications

• Simplified management: No need for complex consortium coordination
• Faster decision-making: Streamlined internal processes
• Clear ownership: Direct control over all project activities and outcomes
• IP management: Simplified intellectual property arrangements

2. Small Consortium

The small consortium option provides a middle ground between single entity and large consortium approaches:

Small Consortium Requirements

• Number of partners: Two independent legal entities
• Geographic distribution: From two different Member States or Associated Countries
• Independence: Both entities must be independent from each other
• Eligibility: Both entities must be eligible for funding

Typical Small Consortium Compositions

• Research-SME partnerships: Research organisation + SME for technology transfer
• SME-SME collaborations: Two SMEs with complementary expertise
• University-Spin-off: University + spin-off company
• Technology transfer partnerships: Research organisation + technology transfer office

Benefits of Small Consortia

• Complementary expertise: Combines different but complementary skills
• Shared risk: Risk is distributed between partners
• Network access: Access to broader networks and resources
• Validation perspective: Different perspectives on technology validation

3. Multi-beneficiary Consortium

The multi-beneficiary consortium option allows for more complex collaborations involving multiple partners:

Multi-beneficiary Consortium Requirements

• Minimum partners: Three eligible independent legal entities
• Maximum partners: Five eligible independent legal entities
• Geographic distribution: Must include 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
• Standard rules: Must follow standard Horizon Europe consortium rules

Restrictions and Limitations

• Maximum size: Consortia of more than 5 eligible entities will be deemed ineligible
• Independence requirement: All entities must be independent from each other
• Geographic diversity: Must include entities from different countries

Typical Multi-beneficiary Consortium Compositions

• Research-SME-Industry: Research organisation + SME + larger company
• Multi-SME collaborations: Several SMEs with complementary expertise
• Academic-Industry partnerships: Multiple universities + industry partners
• Technology transfer networks: Research organisations + TTOs + SMEs

Consortium Composition Guidelines

1. Eligible Entity Types

Consortia may include various types of organisations, each bringing different expertise and perspectives:

• Start-ups: Innovative new companies with high growth potential
• SMEs: Small and medium enterprises with specific expertise
• Research organisations: Universities, research institutes, and technology organisations
• Larger companies: Industry partners with commercialisation expertise
• User/customer organisations: Potential end users and customers
• Potential end users: Hospitals, utilities, industry, regulatory and standardisation bodies

2. Geographic Distribution Requirements

All organisational structures must comply with geographic distribution requirements:

• Member States: All entities must be established in EU Member States
• Associated Countries: Entities from Associated Countries are also eligible
• Cross-border collaboration: Multi-beneficiary consortia must include entities from different countries
• Geographic diversity: Encourages European collaboration and knowledge sharing

3. Independence Requirements

All consortium members must be independent from each other:

• Legal independence: Cannot be controlled by the same parent company
• Management independence: No significant overlapping ownership or management structures
• Operational independence: Must operate as separate, autonomous entities
• Purpose: Ensures genuine collaboration and prevents artificial consortium compositions

Special Considerations for Different Structures

1. Spin-off Considerations

Special rules apply to spin-offs from research performing organisations:

• Legal relationship: A spin-off from a research performing organisation having a legal relationship (e.g., contractual cooperation not limited to the action, collaboration agreement for research in a particular field) can be considered as an affiliated entity according to Article 8 of the Grant Agreement
• Capital relationship: A spin-off where the research performing organisation owns a controlling share in the capital can also be considered as an affiliated entity
• Documentation: Such relationships must be clearly documented in the proposal

2. Market Pathway Specification

Regardless of the organisational structure chosen, applicants must specify their intended path to market:

• Direct exploitation: By coordinator or beneficiary
• Spin-off creation: Creation of a spin-off company in a Member State or an Associated Country
• Licensing: Licensing to an established company (not part of the consortium)
• Other pathways: Other paths to be described in the proposal

3. SME Involvement Requirements

Special requirements apply to SMEs in consortia:

• Active involvement: Individual SMEs (including Startups, Spinoffs) or those in consortia who are the main partners for bringing the innovation to market must be actively involved in the research, development and commercialisation of innovative products or services
• Commercialisation role: SMEs must play a significant role in the commercialisation process
• Market expertise: SMEs should contribute market knowledge and commercialisation expertise

Choosing the Right Structure

1. Factors to Consider

When choosing between single entity and consortium approaches, consider:

• Project complexity: More complex projects may benefit from consortium approaches
• Required expertise: Whether all necessary expertise is available within a single entity
• Market access: Whether partners can provide better market access
• Risk distribution: Whether sharing risk across partners is beneficial
• Management capacity: Whether the applicant has the capacity to manage a consortium

2. Single Entity Advantages

• Simplified management: No consortium coordination overhead
• Faster execution: Streamlined decision-making processes
• Clear ownership: Direct control over all project aspects
• IP clarity: Simplified intellectual property arrangements

3. Consortium Advantages

• Complementary expertise: Access to diverse skills and knowledge
• Broader networks: Access to multiple networks and resources
• Risk sharing: Distribution of technical and commercial risks
• Market validation: Multiple perspectives on market potential
• Geographic diversity: Access to different markets and regulatory environments

Consortium Management Considerations

1. Coordination Requirements

Multi-beneficiary consortia require effective coordination:

• Consortium agreement: Must establish clear roles and responsibilities
• Communication protocols: Regular communication and reporting mechanisms
• Decision-making processes: Clear procedures for project decisions
• Conflict resolution: Mechanisms for resolving disagreements

2. Financial Management

• Budget allocation: Clear allocation of funds across partners
• Financial reporting: Coordinated financial reporting requirements
• Payment distribution: Mechanisms for distributing EU funding to partners
• Cost sharing: Arrangements for sharing costs and resources

3. Intellectual Property Management

• IP ownership: Clear definition of IP ownership and rights
• Access rights: Arrangements for accessing and using project results
• Commercialisation rights: Rights for commercialising project outcomes
• Background IP: Management of pre-existing intellectual property

The choice between single entity and consortium approaches should be based on the specific needs of the project, the available expertise, and the commercialisation strategy. The EIC Transition programme's flexibility allows applicants to choose the most appropriate structure for their specific circumstances while ensuring that the chosen structure supports successful project execution and commercialisation.

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 Transition applicants, as the programme has specific TRL requirements that determine eligibility and project scope. The TRL framework provides a common language for describing technology maturity and helps ensure that projects are at the appropriate stage for Transition funding.

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. This framework helps standardize technology maturity assessment across different sectors and applications.

EIC Transition TRL Focus

EIC Transition specifically targets technologies that have moved beyond basic research but still require systematic development to reach commercial viability. The programme operates within a specific TRL window that reflects its position in the innovation pipeline between fundamental research and market-ready technologies.

TRL Requirements for EIC Transition

EIC Transition has specific TRL requirements that are critical for eligibility:

• Minimum TRL requirement: Applications must have completed all elements of Technology Readiness Level 3 (TRL 3)
• Optimal TRL level: Ideally, technology should be validated in the lab level (TRL 4)
• Maximum TRL restriction: Proposals building on project results at other TRL levels are not eligible
• Target progression: Projects should progress from TRL 3-4 to TRL 5-6 by project completion

Detailed TRL Levels Relevant to EIC Transition

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:

• Focus: Scientific research and basic principles
• Activities: Literature studies, basic experiments, theoretical work
• Outputs: Scientific papers, theoretical models, basic understanding
• EIC Transition relevance: Too early for Transition funding

TRL 2: Technology Formulation

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

• Focus: Application of basic research to practical problems
• Activities: Concept development, initial feasibility studies
• Outputs: Technology concepts, initial prototypes, feasibility assessments
• EIC Transition relevance: Too early for Transition funding

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:

• Focus: Experimental validation of key concepts
• Activities: Laboratory experiments, analytical studies, component testing
• Outputs: Proof of concept demonstrations, validated components
• EIC Transition relevance: Minimum requirement for eligibility

TRL 4: Laboratory Validation

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

• Focus: Component validation in controlled laboratory environment
• Activities: Component integration, laboratory testing, performance validation
• Outputs: Validated components, laboratory prototypes, performance data
• EIC Transition relevance: Optimal starting point for Transition projects

TRL 5: Component and/or Breadboard Validation in Relevant Environment

TRL 5 involves validation of components and/or breadboards in a relevant environment. At this level:

• Focus: Validation in relevant but controlled environment
• Activities: Environmental testing, performance validation, integration testing
• Outputs: Environmentally validated components, integrated systems
• EIC Transition relevance: Target endpoint for Transition projects

TRL 6: System/Subsystem Model or Prototype Demonstration in a Relevant Environment

TRL 6 involves system/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment. At this level:

• Focus: System-level validation in relevant environment
• Activities: System integration, environmental testing, performance demonstration
• Outputs: Validated systems, performance demonstrations, operational prototypes
• EIC Transition relevance: Target endpoint for Transition projects

TRL Progression in EIC Transition

The expected TRL progression for EIC Transition projects is carefully designed to bridge the gap between research and commercialisation:

Starting Point

• Minimum requirement: TRL 3 (experimental proof of concept)
• Optimal starting point: TRL 4 (laboratory validation)
• Justification: Ensures that basic research has been completed and proof of concept has been demonstrated

Target Endpoint

• Primary target: TRL 5 (component validation in relevant environment)
• Secondary target: TRL 6 (system demonstration in relevant environment)
• Justification: Ensures that technology is ready for further development towards commercialisation

Expected Advancement

• Typical progression: 1-2 TRL levels during the project
• Timeframe: 1-3 years project duration
• Validation: Technology demonstrated in relevant application environment

TRL Assessment and Verification

Assessment Criteria

When assessing TRL levels, evaluators consider multiple factors:

• Technical maturity: Level of technical development and validation
• Performance validation: Extent of performance testing and validation
• Environmental testing: Testing in relevant environments
• Integration level: Level of system integration achieved
• Documentation: Quality and completeness of technical documentation

Verification Process

The TRL level is subject to verification during the evaluation process:

• Initial screening: Basic TRL assessment during proposal submission
• Expert evaluation: Detailed TRL assessment by technical experts
• Documentation review: Verification of TRL claims through supporting documentation
• Additional checks: Further verification during grant preparation phase if needed

TRL and Project Activities

Activities Appropriate for Different TRL Levels

The TRL level influences the types of activities that are appropriate for EIC Transition projects:

TRL 3-4 Projects (Starting Point)

• Component development: Further development of key components
• Laboratory validation: Comprehensive laboratory testing and validation
• Performance optimization: Optimization of key performance parameters
• Integration planning: Planning for system integration

TRL 4-5 Projects (Target Progression)

• System integration: Integration of components into systems
• Environmental testing: Testing in relevant environments
• Performance validation: Validation of system performance
• User testing: Initial user testing and feedback

TRL 5-6 Projects (Advanced Progression)

• System demonstration: Demonstration of complete systems
• Operational testing: Testing under operational conditions
• Performance optimization: Optimization of system performance
• Market validation: Validation with potential users and customers

TRL and Business Development

EIC Transition projects are expected to mature both technology and business readiness in parallel:

Dual-Track Development

• Technology track: Advancement in TRL levels
• Business track: Development of business models and market strategies
• Integration: Both tracks should progress in parallel and interact
• Synergy: Technology development should inform business development and vice versa

Business Readiness Progression

• Market research: Understanding of market needs and opportunities
• Value proposition: Development of clear value propositions
• Business model: Refinement and validation of business models
• Go-to-market strategy: Development of market entry strategies

TRL and Risk Assessment

TRL levels are directly related to technology risk and project success probability:

Risk Levels by TRL

• TRL 3: High technical risk, significant uncertainty about feasibility
• TRL 4: Moderate technical risk, some uncertainty about performance
• TRL 5: Lower technical risk, more certainty about performance
• TRL 6: Low technical risk, high confidence in performance

Risk Mitigation Strategies

• Technical risk: Comprehensive testing and validation
• Market risk: Early user engagement and market validation
• Integration risk: Systematic integration planning and testing
• Commercialisation risk: Business model validation and market testing

TRL and Funding Requirements

TRL levels influence funding requirements and project scope:

Funding Allocation by TRL Level

• TRL 3-4 projects: Higher proportion for research and development
• TRL 4-5 projects: Balanced allocation between R&D and validation
• TRL 5-6 projects: Higher proportion for validation and demonstration

Resource Requirements

• Equipment: Laboratory and testing equipment needs
• Expertise: Technical and business expertise requirements
• Facilities: Testing and validation facilities
• Partnerships: User and customer partnerships for validation

TRL and Consortium Composition

TRL levels may influence optimal consortium composition:

Consortium Considerations by TRL

• TRL 3-4: Strong research component, technology development expertise
• TRL 4-5: Balance of research and validation expertise
• TRL 5-6: Strong validation and demonstration capabilities

Partner Types by TRL

• Research partners: For technology development and validation
• Industry partners: For application expertise and market access
• User partners: For validation and feedback
• Commercialisation partners: For business development and market entry

Understanding TRLs is essential for EIC Transition applicants, as the programme's TRL requirements define the scope and nature of eligible projects. The TRL framework provides a structured approach to technology development and helps ensure that projects are at the appropriate stage for successful commercialisation.

11. Business Development and Market Readiness

Business development and market readiness are fundamental components of EIC Transition projects, representing one of the two parallel tracks that must be developed simultaneously with technology maturation. The programme requires a balanced approach that addresses both technological advancement and commercial viability, ensuring that innovations have clear pathways to market success.

Dual-Track Development Approach

EIC Transition projects are expected to mature innovation both in its TRL and market and business readiness from the beginning of the project, with both tracks going in parallel and interacting between them. This integrated approach ensures that technological development is guided by market needs and that business strategies are informed by technological capabilities.

Technology Track

• TRL advancement: Progression from TRL 3-4 to TRL 5-6
• Technical validation: Validation in relevant application environments
• Performance optimization: Optimization of key performance parameters
• Integration development: System integration and demonstration

Business Track

• Market research: Understanding market needs and opportunities
• Business model development: Refinement and validation of business models
• Value proposition: Development of clear value propositions
• Go-to-market strategy: Development of market entry strategies

Business Development Requirements

1. Business Plan Development

EIC Transition projects must include comprehensive business plan development as a core component. The business plan should include:

• Products or services provided: Clear description of the innovation and its applications
• Market analysis: Comprehensive analysis of target markets and segments
• Competition analysis: Assessment of competitive landscape and positioning
• Marketing strategy: Detailed marketing and sales strategies
• Organisation & management: Team structure and management approach
• Financial projections: Revenue, cost, and profitability projections

2. Business Model Validation

The business model is a key component of the business plan and must be refined and validated during the project lifetime. The business model should include:

• Value proposition: Clear articulation of the value delivered to customers
• Target market(s): Specific identification of target customer segments
• Revenue streams: Multiple revenue sources and pricing strategies
• Cost structure: Understanding of cost drivers and structure
• Channels: Distribution and sales channels

3. Market Research and Validation

Comprehensive market research is essential for successful business development:

Market Analysis Components

• Market size assessment: Total addressable market and serviceable market
• Market segmentation: Identification of key customer segments
• Customer needs analysis: Understanding of customer pain points and requirements
• Market trends analysis: Current and future market trends
• Regulatory environment: Understanding of relevant regulations and standards

Competitive Analysis

• Competitor identification: Direct and indirect competitors
• Competitive positioning: Unique value proposition and differentiation
• Competitive advantages: Sustainable competitive advantages
• Market entry barriers: Barriers to entry and competitive moats

Market Readiness Activities

1. User-Centric Development

EIC Transition projects must follow user-centric methodologies to increase chances of the innovation's future commercial success in the market. This includes:

• Early user engagement: Involving potential users from the early stages
• User feedback integration: Incorporating user feedback into development
• Iterative learning processes: Learning from early customer or user feedback
• User testing: Systematic testing with target users

2. Market Validation

Market validation activities are crucial for confirming market demand and refining the value proposition:

Validation Methods

• Customer interviews: Direct interviews with potential customers
• Surveys and questionnaires: Structured market research
• Pilot testing: Testing with early adopters
• Market experiments: Small-scale market tests
• Partnership discussions: Engaging with potential partners

Validation Metrics

• Customer interest: Level of customer interest and engagement
• Willingness to pay: Customer willingness to pay for the solution
• Market demand: Quantified market demand
• Competitive response: Understanding of competitive landscape

3. Go-to-Market Strategy Development

A well-defined and convincing go-to-market strategy is essential for EIC Transition projects:

Strategy Components

• Market entry approach: How to enter target markets
• Distribution channels: How to reach customers
• Pricing strategy: How to price the solution
• Sales strategy: How to sell the solution
• Marketing strategy: How to market the solution

Regulatory Considerations

• Regulatory approvals: Required regulatory approvals and certifications
• Compliance requirements: Industry and regulatory compliance
• Standards compliance: Technical and safety standards
• Time to market: Realistic timeline for market entry

Investment Readiness Preparation

1. Investment Readiness Assessment

EIC Transition projects must prepare both the technology and the team for investment readiness:

• Technology readiness: Technology validated and ready for further development
• Team readiness: Team capable of executing the business plan
• Market readiness: Market validated and ready for commercialisation
• Financial readiness: Financial projections and funding requirements clear

2. Funding Strategy Development

Projects must develop clear strategies for securing follow-on funding:

• EIC Accelerator application: Preparation for EIC Accelerator funding
• Private investment: Strategies for attracting private investment
• Alternative funding sources: Other potential funding sources
• Funding requirements: Clear understanding of funding needs

3. Intellectual Property Protection

IP protection is a critical component of investment readiness:

• IP strategy: Comprehensive IP protection strategy
• Patent filing: Patent applications and protection
• IP portfolio management: Management of IP assets
• Freedom to operate: Ensuring freedom to operate

Business Development Milestones and KPIs

1. Key Performance Indicators

EIC Transition projects must include specific, measurable KPIs for business development:

Market Validation KPIs

• Customer interviews conducted: Number of customer interviews
• Market surveys completed: Number of market surveys
• Pilot customers secured: Number of pilot customers
• Customer feedback scores: Customer satisfaction and interest scores

Business Development KPIs

• Business plan iterations: Number of business plan refinements
• Partnership discussions: Number of partnership discussions
• Investment meetings: Number of investor meetings
• Market validation studies: Number of market validation studies

2. Milestone Definition

Clear milestones must be defined for tracking business development progress:

• Market research completion: Completion of comprehensive market research
• Business model validation: Validation of business model assumptions
• Customer validation: Validation with target customers
• Investment readiness: Achievement of investment readiness criteria

Business Development Support Services

1. Business Acceleration Services

EIC Transition projects have access to comprehensive business acceleration services:

• Business coaching: One-on-one business coaching
• Market research support: Assistance with market research
• Investment preparation: Preparation for investment rounds
• Network access: Access to investor and customer networks

2. Investor Readiness Training

Projects are strongly encouraged to undertake investor readiness training in the first year:

• Business plan development: Training in creating and refining business plans
• Investor pitch preparation: Training in developing investor presentations
• Financial modeling: Training in financial modeling and projections
• Due diligence preparation: Preparation for investor due diligence

Risk Assessment and Mitigation

1. Business Development Risks

Projects must identify and address business development risks:

• Market risk: Risk that market demand is insufficient
• Competitive risk: Risk from competitive responses
• Regulatory risk: Risk from regulatory changes or requirements
• Execution risk: Risk of poor execution of business strategy

2. Risk Mitigation Strategies

Effective risk mitigation strategies must be developed:

• Market diversification: Targeting multiple market segments
• Competitive differentiation: Developing unique competitive advantages
• Regulatory compliance: Early engagement with regulatory requirements
• Team development: Building strong execution capabilities

Success Factors for Business Development

1. Early Market Engagement

• Customer involvement: Early and continuous customer involvement
• Market feedback: Regular market feedback collection and integration
• Iterative development: Iterative development based on market feedback

2. Strong Value Proposition

• Clear value delivery: Clear articulation of value delivered to customers
• Competitive differentiation: Strong competitive differentiation
• Customer validation: Validation of value proposition with customers

3. Robust Business Model

• Sustainable revenue streams: Multiple and sustainable revenue streams
• Scalable cost structure: Scalable and efficient cost structure
• Clear go-to-market strategy: Well-defined market entry strategy

Business development and market readiness are essential components of EIC Transition projects, ensuring that technological innovations have clear pathways to commercial success. The programme's integrated approach to technology and business development maximises the chances of successful market deployment and long-term commercial viability.

12. Different Pathways to Market

EIC Transition projects must specify and pursue clear pathways to market deployment, ensuring that technological innovations have well-defined routes to commercial success. The programme recognises that different types of innovations and organisations may require different approaches to market entry, and provides flexibility in choosing the most appropriate pathway for each project.

Pathway Specification Requirement

The applicant must specify which path to market will be explored and pursued during the execution of the EIC Transition project. This specification is a mandatory requirement that helps ensure projects have clear commercialisation strategies and that the EIC can provide appropriate support for the chosen pathway.

Primary Pathways to Market

EIC Transition recognises four primary pathways to market, each with specific characteristics and requirements:

1. Direct Exploitation by Coordinator or Beneficiary

Direct exploitation involves the coordinator or beneficiary taking the innovation directly to market through their own commercial activities.

Characteristics

• Internal commercialisation: The innovation is commercialised within the existing organisation
• Direct control: Full control over the commercialisation process
• Internal resources: Utilisation of existing organisational resources and capabilities
• Integrated approach: Integration with existing business activities

Suitable for

• Established SMEs: SMEs with existing commercial operations
• Research organisations: Research organisations with commercialisation capabilities
• Technology companies: Companies with existing technology commercialisation experience
• Innovation departments: Organisations with dedicated innovation commercialisation units

Advantages

• Full control: Complete control over commercialisation decisions
• Existing infrastructure: Access to existing commercial infrastructure
• Established networks: Access to existing customer and partner networks
• Faster execution: Potentially faster market entry through existing channels

Challenges

• Resource requirements: Need for significant internal resources
• Risk concentration: All commercialisation risk borne by the organisation
• Capability gaps: May lack specific commercialisation capabilities
• Focus dilution: May divert attention from core business activities

2. Creation of a Spin-off Company

Spin-off creation involves establishing a new company in a Member State or an Associated Country to commercialise the innovation.

Characteristics

• New legal entity: Creation of a new, independent company
• Focused mission: Dedicated to commercialising the specific innovation
• Independent operations: Separate from the parent organisation
• Entrepreneurial approach: Entrepreneurial management and culture

Suitable for

• Research organisations: Universities and research institutes
• Academic teams: Research teams seeking entrepreneurial opportunities
• Technology transfer offices: TTOs managing university innovations
• Individual researchers: Researchers wanting to commercialise their innovations

Advantages

• Focused approach: Dedicated focus on the innovation
• Entrepreneurial culture: Fast-moving, innovative culture
• Investment attractiveness: Attractive to external investors
• Clear ownership: Clear ownership and equity structure

Challenges

• Start-up challenges: All the challenges of starting a new company
• Resource requirements: Need for significant initial funding
• Management expertise: Need for entrepreneurial management skills
• Regulatory compliance: Need to establish all necessary compliance systems

3. Licensing to an Established Company

Licensing involves transferring the rights to commercialise the innovation to an established company that is not part of the consortium.

Characteristics

• Rights transfer: Transfer of commercialisation rights to a third party
• Established partner: Partner with existing commercial capabilities
• Revenue sharing: Revenue sharing through licensing agreements
• Risk transfer: Transfer of commercialisation risk to the licensee

Suitable for

• Research organisations: Organisations focused on research rather than commercialisation
• Technology developers: Teams focused on technology development
• IP-focused organisations: Organisations with strong IP but limited commercial capabilities
• Academic institutions: Universities and research institutes

Advantages

• Established capabilities: Access to established commercial capabilities
• Market access: Access to existing market presence and networks
• Risk reduction: Reduced commercialisation risk
• Revenue generation: Potential for significant licensing revenue

Challenges

• Control loss: Loss of control over commercialisation
• Partner dependency: Dependency on partner's commercialisation success
• Negotiation complexity: Complex licensing negotiations
• Revenue uncertainty: Uncertain revenue streams from licensing

4. Other Pathways

The programme allows for other pathways to be described, providing flexibility for innovative commercialisation approaches.

Examples of Other Pathways

• Joint ventures: Creation of joint ventures with industry partners
• Strategic partnerships: Strategic partnerships with multiple companies
• Open source commercialisation: Commercialisation through open source models
• Platform-based approaches: Commercialisation through platform business models
• Service-based models: Commercialisation through service provision

Pathway Selection Considerations

1. Organisational Capabilities

The choice of pathway should align with the organisation's capabilities:

• Commercial capabilities: Existing commercialisation capabilities
• Financial resources: Available financial resources for commercialisation
• Management expertise: Management expertise in the chosen pathway
• Network access: Access to relevant networks and partners

2. Innovation Characteristics

The nature of the innovation influences pathway choice:

• Technology maturity: Level of technology development and validation
• Market readiness: Level of market validation and customer interest
• Competitive landscape: Competitive environment and positioning
• Regulatory requirements: Regulatory requirements and compliance needs

3. Market Characteristics

Market characteristics should inform pathway selection:

• Market size: Size and growth potential of target markets
• Market structure: Structure and dynamics of target markets
• Customer characteristics: Characteristics and needs of target customers
• Competitive intensity: Level of competition in target markets

Pathway Implementation Planning

1. Detailed Pathway Description

Projects must provide detailed descriptions of their chosen pathway:

• Pathway rationale: Justification for the chosen pathway
• Implementation plan: Detailed implementation plan
• Resource requirements: Resources needed for pathway implementation
• Timeline: Timeline for pathway implementation

2. Milestones and KPIs

Clear milestones and KPIs must be defined for pathway implementation:

• Pathway milestones: Key milestones in pathway implementation
• Success indicators: Indicators of pathway success
• Progress tracking: Methods for tracking pathway progress
• Adjustment mechanisms: Mechanisms for adjusting pathway if needed

3. Risk Assessment

Risks associated with the chosen pathway must be assessed:

• Pathway-specific risks: Risks specific to the chosen pathway
• Mitigation strategies: Strategies for mitigating identified risks
• Contingency plans: Contingency plans for pathway failure
• Alternative pathways: Alternative pathways if primary pathway fails

Pathway Support and Resources

1. EIC Support Services

The EIC provides support for pathway implementation:

• Business acceleration services: Support for business development
• Network access: Access to relevant networks and partners
• Expert guidance: Expert guidance on pathway implementation
• Funding support: Additional funding through booster grants

2. External Support

Projects can access external support for pathway implementation:

• Industry partnerships: Partnerships with industry players
• Investor networks: Access to investor networks
• Customer networks: Access to customer networks
• Expert consultants: Expert consultants and advisors

Pathway Evolution and Adaptation

1. Pathway Flexibility

Pathways may evolve during project implementation:

• Market feedback: Adaptation based on market feedback
• Technology development: Adaptation based on technology development
• Partner availability: Adaptation based on partner availability
• Resource constraints: Adaptation based on resource constraints

2. Pathway Optimization

Pathways should be optimized based on learning and feedback:

• Performance monitoring: Continuous monitoring of pathway performance
• Feedback integration: Integration of feedback into pathway optimization
• Iterative improvement: Iterative improvement of pathway approach
• Success measurement: Measurement of pathway success and impact

The choice of pathway to market is a critical decision that significantly influences the success of EIC Transition projects. The programme's flexibility in pathway options allows projects to choose the most appropriate approach for their specific circumstances while ensuring that all projects have clear routes to commercial success.

13. Business Acceleration Services

Business Acceleration Services (BAS) represent a distinctive feature of the EIC that enables it to provide not only "money" but "smart money" to innovative companies. These comprehensive support services are designed to help EIC Transition projects maximise their impact and prepare for successful commercialisation by providing access to leading expertise, corporates, investors, and ecosystem actors.

Core Objectives of Business Acceleration Services

The Business Acceleration Services aim to support EIC Transition projects in:

• Technology commercialisation: Supporting the transition from research to market-ready innovations
• Business development: Developing robust business models and commercialisation strategies
• Market access: Facilitating access to markets and customers
• Investment readiness: Preparing projects for follow-on funding and investment
• Network building: Building connections with relevant ecosystem actors
• International expansion: Supporting internationalisation efforts

Comprehensive Service Portfolio

EIC Transition projects receive access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services and matchmaking events. These services are tailored to the specific needs of each project and include:

1. Tailor-made BAS Access

Projects receive access to a wide range of Business Acceleration Services and matchmaking events:

• Customised support: Services tailored to the specific needs of each project
• Comprehensive coverage: Access to the full range of EIC BAS services
• Matchmaking events: Opportunities to connect with potential partners, investors, and customers
• Expert guidance: Access to specialised advisors and mentors

2. Tech2Market BAS Services

Transition projects are expected and strongly encouraged to apply for Tech2Market BAS services:

• Specialised support: Services specifically designed for technology transfer and commercialisation
• Expert guidance: Access to specialised advisors and mentors
• Market validation: Support for market testing and validation activities
• Technology transfer expertise: Specialised expertise in technology transfer processes

3. Mandatory Coaching

Coaching for Transition projects is mandatory unless well justified:

• Requirement: All projects must participate in coaching unless already provided by other ecosystem players
• Justification: Projects can opt out only if they can demonstrate equivalent support from other sources
• Focus areas: Business development, market strategy, investment readiness
• Duration: Ongoing support throughout the project lifecycle

4. Programme Manager Support

Projects are expected to follow up on recommendations from Programme Managers as well as from Innovation Radar experts:

• Expert guidance: Direct access to EIC Programme Managers
• Innovation Radar support: Expert analysis and recommendations
• Strategic advice: Guidance on project development and commercialisation strategy
• Portfolio management: Support for portfolio-level strategic decisions

Specific BAS Services for EIC Transition

1. Business Coaching and Mentoring

One-on-one business coaching and mentoring services:

• Business plan development: Support for creating and refining business plans
• Market strategy: Guidance on market entry and expansion strategies
• Financial planning: Support for financial modeling and planning
• Team development: Guidance on team building and management

2. Market Access and Validation

Services to support market access and validation:

• Market research support: Assistance with market research and analysis
• Customer validation: Support for customer interviews and validation
• Pilot testing: Assistance with pilot testing and market experiments
• Market entry strategy: Guidance on market entry approaches

3. Investment Preparation

Services to prepare projects for investment:

• Investor readiness training: Training in investor pitch preparation
• Financial modeling: Support for financial modeling and projections
• Due diligence preparation: Preparation for investor due diligence
• Investor networking: Access to investor networks and events

4. Network and Partnership Building

Services to build networks and partnerships:

• Industry partnerships: Facilitation of industry partnerships
• Academic collaborations: Support for academic collaborations
• International expansion: Support for international market entry
• Ecosystem connections: Connections with relevant ecosystem actors

Enhanced BAS Features for 2026

1. Reinforced Internationalisation Support

The 2026 Work Programme introduces reinforced Business Acceleration Services for internationalisation:

• International market entry: Enhanced support for international market entry
• Cross-border partnerships: Support for cross-border partnerships
• Global network access: Access to global networks and markets
• International trade fairs: Participation in international trade fairs

2. Corporate Engagement Support

Enhanced support for engaging with corporates:

• Corporate partnerships: Facilitation of corporate partnerships
• Corporate customer access: Access to corporate customers
• Strategic alliances: Support for strategic alliances with corporates
• Corporate innovation: Engagement with corporate innovation programs

BAS Service Delivery

1. Service Provision Model

BAS services are provided through a comprehensive delivery model:

• Externally contracted services: Services provided by external experts and consultants
• Bespoke services: Services tailored to specific project needs
• Pan-European reach: Access to services across Europe and beyond
• Flexible delivery: Services delivered at any stage of project development

2. Service Coordination

Services are coordinated to maximise impact:

• Integrated approach: Services integrated with project activities
• Synergy exploitation: Exploitation of synergies between different services
• Cross-promotion: Cross-promotion of relevant actions and events
• Network integration: Integration with broader EIC ecosystem networks

BAS Impact and Outcomes

1. Expected Impact

The reinforced Business Acceleration Services are expected to generate significant impact:

• Enhanced commercialisation: Improved commercialisation success rates
• Market access: Better access to markets and customers
• Investment success: Higher success rates in securing follow-on funding
• International expansion: Increased international market presence
• Corporate engagement: Enhanced engagement with corporate partners

2. Success Metrics

BAS success is measured through various metrics:

• Commercialisation success: Success in bringing innovations to market
• Investment success: Success in securing follow-on funding
• Market expansion: Expansion into new markets
• Partnership formation: Formation of strategic partnerships
• International presence: Development of international presence

BAS Access and Eligibility

1. Access Requirements

Access to BAS services is available to:

• EIC Transition beneficiaries: All successful EIC Transition projects
• Active participation: Projects must actively engage with BAS services
• Service application: Projects must apply for specific services
• Ongoing engagement: Continuous engagement throughout project lifecycle

2. Service Selection

Service selection is based on:

• Project needs: Specific needs of each project
• Development stage: Current stage of project development
• Commercialisation goals: Specific commercialisation objectives
• Available resources: Resources available for service delivery

BAS Integration with Other Support

1. Integration with EIC Fund

BAS services are integrated with EIC Fund support:

• Investment preparation: BAS support for investment preparation
• Investor networking: BAS support for investor networking
• Due diligence support: BAS support for due diligence processes
• Post-investment support: Ongoing BAS support after investment

2. Integration with Other EU Programs

BAS services integrate with other EU programs:

• EIT-KIC services: Integration with EIT-KIC services
• Other EU initiatives: Integration with other relevant EU initiatives
• National programs: Coordination with national support programs
• Regional initiatives: Integration with regional innovation initiatives

Best Practices for BAS Engagement

1. Proactive Engagement

• Early engagement: Engage with BAS services early in the project
• Regular participation: Participate regularly in BAS events and activities
• Service utilization: Actively utilize available BAS services
• Feedback provision: Provide feedback on BAS service quality and impact

2. Strategic Planning

• Service planning: Plan BAS service utilization strategically
• Goal alignment: Align BAS engagement with project goals
• Resource allocation: Allocate appropriate resources for BAS engagement
• Impact measurement: Measure the impact of BAS services on project success

Business Acceleration Services represent a comprehensive support ecosystem that goes far beyond financial funding, providing EIC Transition projects with the tools, connections, and expertise they need to successfully commercialise their innovations. The enhanced BAS services for 2026 further strengthen this support ecosystem, ensuring that projects have access to the best possible guidance and resources for successful market deployment.

14. Booster Grants and Additional Support

Booster grants represent an additional funding opportunity for EIC Transition beneficiaries, providing supplementary support for activities that go beyond the scope of the main project but are essential for successful commercialisation. These grants are designed to nurture innovation and explore potential pathways to commercialisation that may emerge during or after the main project.

Booster Grant Overview

EIC Transition beneficiaries 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. These grants provide additional financial support for activities that complement the main project objectives and enhance the commercialisation potential of the innovation.

Eligibility for Booster Grants

Booster grants are available to projects funded through EIC Transition. The eligibility criteria include:

• EIC Transition beneficiaries: Projects that have received EIC Transition funding
• Positive recommendation: Positive recommendation from an EIC Programme Manager
• Project review: Positive outcome from a project review
• Tech2Market participation: Participation in the EIC Tech2Market BAS programme, particularly the Business Validation Programme
• Third parties: Technology Transfer Offices, EIC Inventors, and other third parties linked to EIC Transition projects

Booster Grant Funding

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 commercialisation potential.

Funding Structure

• Fixed amount: Maximum EUR 50,000 per grant
• Lump sum format: Provided as a lump sum grant
• Pre-financing: 70% pre-financing payment upon agreement signature
• Final payment: 30% final payment upon approval of final report

Purpose and Objectives

Booster grants serve several key purposes:

• Commercialisation exploration: Explore potential pathways to commercialisation
• Portfolio activities: Support portfolio-level activities and synergies
• Innovation nurturing: Nurture innovation stemming from project results
• Market validation: Validate market potential and customer interest
• Business development: Develop business models and strategies
• Partnership building: Build strategic partnerships and collaborations

Supported Activities

Booster grants can support a wide range of complementary activities:

1. Market Analysis and Validation

• Market research: Comprehensive market research and analysis
• Customer interviews: Customer interviews and validation studies
• Competitive analysis: Detailed competitive landscape analysis
• Market testing: Market testing and pilot studies

2. Business Development

• Business plan development: Development and refinement of business plans
• Financial modeling: Financial modeling and projections
• Value proposition development: Development of value propositions
• Go-to-market strategy: Development of market entry strategies

3. Partnership and Network Building

• Industry partnerships: Development of industry partnerships
• Investor networking: Investor networking and relationship building
• Customer partnerships: Development of customer partnerships
• Strategic alliances: Formation of strategic alliances

4. Technology Transfer and Commercialisation

• IP strategy development: Development of intellectual property strategies
• Licensing preparation: Preparation for licensing agreements
• Spin-off preparation: Preparation for spin-off creation
• Technology transfer activities: Technology transfer and commercialisation activities

5. Innovation Development

• Innovation exploration: Exploration of additional innovation opportunities
• Portfolio synergies: Development of portfolio-level synergies
• Cross-project collaboration: Collaboration between different projects
• Innovation ecosystem engagement: Engagement with innovation ecosystems

Application Process

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

1. Application Initiation

• Invitation-based: Applications are typically invited following positive recommendations
• Open call: Constantly open call for applications
• IT platform: Applications submitted through dedicated IT platform
• Helpdesk support: Helpdesk support for applicants

2. Application Requirements

• Project identification: Clear identification of the related EIC Transition project
• Activity description: Detailed description of proposed activities
• Budget justification: Justification for the requested funding
• Expected outcomes: Expected outcomes and impact

3. Evaluation Process

Booster grant applications are evaluated by an evaluation committee composed of:

• EIC Programme Manager: One EIC Programme Manager
• External expert: One external expert from a pool covering broad technology areas
• Third evaluator: One additional evaluator as needed

4. Evaluation Criteria

Booster grant applications are evaluated based on:

• Relevance: Relevance to the main project objectives
• Impact potential: Potential impact on commercialisation success
• Feasibility: Feasibility of the proposed activities
• Resource efficiency: Efficient use of resources
• Innovation potential: Potential for innovation development

Grant Limitations and Rules

1. Grant Limitations

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

2. Project Identification

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

3. Funding Restrictions

Booster grants do not fund:

• Research activities: Research activities that should be part of the main project
• Already funded activities: Activities already foreseen in the original project
• Other EIC funding: Activities already funded by other EIC instruments
• Duplication: Duplication of existing activities or funding

Implementation and Management

1. Grant Agreement

• Agreement signature: Booster grant agreement between CSA project and beneficiary
• Pre-financing: 70% pre-financing payment upon agreement signature
• Project implementation: Implementation of approved activities
• Final payment: 30% final payment upon final report approval

2. Reporting Requirements

• Final report: Final report of around 10 pages presenting results
• Activity verification: Verification that activities were performed as foreseen
• Impact assessment: Impact survey 6 months after project completion
• Agency approval: Final approval by the Agency

3. Monitoring and Support

• Progress monitoring: Regular monitoring of project progress
• Support provision: Ongoing support during implementation
• Issue resolution: Resolution of implementation issues
• Impact tracking: Tracking of impact and outcomes

Additional Support Opportunities

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

1. Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

• Streamlined access: Streamlined access to EIC Accelerator funding
• Reduced evaluation: Reduced evaluation requirements
• Priority consideration: Priority consideration for Accelerator funding
• Enhanced support: Enhanced support during Accelerator application

2. Business Acceleration Services

• Comprehensive BAS: Access to comprehensive Business Acceleration Services
• Tech2Market services: Specialised Tech2Market BAS services
• Coaching support: Business coaching and mentoring
• Network access: Access to networks and partnerships

3. Programme Manager Support

• Direct access: Direct access to EIC Programme Managers
• Strategic guidance: Strategic guidance and advice
• Portfolio management: Portfolio-level support and management
• Recommendation support: Support for Booster grant recommendations

Impact and Success Stories

1. Expected Impact

Booster grants are expected to generate significant impact:

• Enhanced commercialisation: Improved commercialisation success rates
• Market validation: Better market validation and customer understanding
• Partnership formation: Formation of strategic partnerships
• Innovation development: Development of additional innovation opportunities
• Investment readiness: Improved investment readiness

2. Success Metrics

Success is measured through various metrics:

• Commercialisation outcomes: Successful commercialisation of innovations
• Market entry: Successful market entry and customer acquisition
• Investment success: Success in securing follow-on funding
• Partnership formation: Formation of strategic partnerships
• Innovation development: Development of additional innovations

Best Practices for Booster Grant Applications

1. Strategic Planning

• Clear objectives: Define clear objectives for booster activities
• Main project alignment: Ensure alignment with main project objectives
• Impact focus: Focus on activities with high impact potential
• Resource efficiency: Ensure efficient use of limited resources

2. Application Quality

• Detailed planning: Provide detailed planning of activities
• Clear justification: Clear justification for funding request
• Expected outcomes: Define clear expected outcomes
• Impact measurement: Plan for impact measurement and evaluation

Booster grants represent a valuable additional funding opportunity for EIC Transition projects, providing flexible support for activities that enhance commercialisation potential and explore new opportunities. The streamlined application process and comprehensive support make these grants an important tool for maximising the impact of EIC Transition investments.

15. Fast Track to EIC Accelerator

The Fast Track scheme provides EIC Transition beneficiaries with expedited access to the EIC Accelerator programme, creating a seamless pathway from technology validation to market deployment and scaling. This scheme represents a key linkage in the EIC innovation pipeline, enabling successful Transition projects to progress to the next stage of commercialisation with streamlined access to significant funding and support.

Fast Track Overview

EIC Transition beneficiaries may 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. The Fast Track scheme is designed to accelerate the transition from validated technologies to market-ready innovations.

Eligibility for Fast Track

Fast Track access is available to projects funded through EIC Transition. The eligibility criteria include:

• EIC Transition beneficiaries: Projects that have successfully completed or are in the final stages of EIC Transition funding
• Technology readiness: Technologies that have reached the required TRL level for EIC Accelerator
• Commercial potential: Demonstrated commercial potential and market readiness
• Project completion: Successful completion of EIC Transition project objectives
• Positive review: Positive outcome from project reviews and evaluations

Fast Track Benefits

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

• Expedited access: Streamlined access to EIC Accelerator funding
• Reduced evaluation: Simplified evaluation process compared to standard applications
• Priority consideration: Priority consideration in the EIC Accelerator evaluation process
• Enhanced support: Additional support services during the application process
• Continuity of support: Seamless continuation of EIC support from Transition to Accelerator
• Network access: Access to EIC Accelerator networks and resources

EIC Accelerator Funding Available

Successful Fast Track applications to EIC Accelerator can receive:

• Grant component: Up to EUR 2.5 million in grant funding for innovation activities
• Equity investment: Up to EUR 15 million in equity investment for scaling activities
• Business acceleration services: Comprehensive Business Acceleration Services
• Network access: Access to investor networks and corporate partnerships
• International support: Support for international expansion and market access

TRL Requirements for Fast Track

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.

TRL Progression from Transition to Accelerator

• EIC Transition target: TRL 5-6 (technology validated in relevant environment)
• EIC Accelerator minimum: TRL 6 (system/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in relevant environment)
• Progression requirement: Successful progression from Transition TRL levels to Accelerator requirements
• Validation demonstration: Clear demonstration of technology validation and market readiness

Fast Track Application Process

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

1. Application Initiation

• Project review: Initiated through positive project reviews
• Programme Manager recommendation: Based on EIC Programme Manager recommendations
• Portfolio assessment: Assessment of portfolio readiness for Accelerator
• Eligibility verification: Verification of Fast Track eligibility criteria

2. Application Preparation

• Accelerator proposal: Preparation of full EIC Accelerator proposal
• Fast Track evaluation: Expedited evaluation process
• Standard assessment: Assessment using standard EIC Accelerator criteria
• Jury evaluation: Evaluation by EIC Accelerator jury

3. Evaluation Process

• Expedited timeline: Accelerated evaluation timeline
• Standard criteria: Evaluation using standard EIC Accelerator criteria
• Priority consideration: Priority consideration in evaluation process
• Enhanced feedback: Comprehensive feedback on application

Fast Track Evaluation Criteria

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

1. Excellence Criteria

• Technology breakthrough: Degree of innovation and technological advancement
• Market potential: Commercial potential and market opportunity
• Competitive advantage: Sustainable competitive advantages
• Technical feasibility: Technical feasibility and implementation capability

2. Impact Criteria

• Market impact: Potential market impact and commercial success
• Economic benefits: Economic benefits and job creation potential
• Societal impact: Societal and environmental benefits
• European competitiveness: Contribution to European competitiveness

3. Implementation Criteria

• Team capability: Team capability and execution capacity
• Business model: Robust and scalable business model
• Financial planning: Sound financial planning and projections
• Risk management: Effective risk identification and mitigation

Advantages of Fast Track

Fast Track provides several advantages over regular EIC Accelerator applications:

• Streamlined process: Simplified and accelerated application process
• Reduced competition: Lower competition compared to open calls
• Enhanced support: Additional support during application process
• Continuity benefits: Benefits from previous EIC support and relationships
• Priority consideration: Priority consideration in evaluation process
• Network advantages: Access to established EIC networks and resources

Preparation for Fast Track

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

• Plan early: Begin planning for Fast Track during the Transition project
• Track TRL progression: Ensure successful TRL progression to meet Accelerator requirements
• Develop business model: Develop robust business model and commercialisation strategy
• Build team: Build strong team with execution capabilities
• Validate market: Conduct comprehensive market validation
• Prepare financials: Prepare detailed financial projections and funding requirements

Fast Track Success Factors

Successful Fast Track applications typically demonstrate:

• Clear progression: Clear progression from Transition to Accelerator readiness
• Market validation: Strong market validation and customer interest
• Robust business model: Well-developed and scalable business model
• Strong team: Experienced team with execution capabilities
• Financial readiness: Sound financial planning and funding strategy
• Competitive advantage: Clear competitive advantages and market positioning

Fast Track Timeline

The Fast Track process follows an accelerated timeline:

1. Preparation Phase

• Transition project completion: Completion of EIC Transition project objectives
• TRL achievement: Achievement of required TRL levels
• Business development: Development of business model and commercialisation strategy
• Team preparation: Preparation of team and organisational structure

2. Application Phase

• Eligibility assessment: Assessment of Fast Track eligibility
• Proposal preparation: Preparation of EIC Accelerator proposal
• Submission: Submission of Fast Track application
• Evaluation: Expedited evaluation process

3. Implementation Phase

• Grant agreement: Signing of EIC Accelerator grant agreement
• Project implementation: Implementation of Accelerator project
• Business acceleration: Access to Business Acceleration Services
• Market deployment: Market deployment and scaling activities

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
• Business acceleration: Enhanced Business Acceleration Services
• Network access: Access to investor and corporate networks
• Mentoring: Specialized mentoring and coaching

Fast Track Portfolio Considerations

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

• Portfolio balance: Consideration of portfolio balance and diversity
• Strategic alignment: Alignment with EIC strategic priorities
• Market coverage: Coverage of different market sectors and technologies
• Geographic distribution: Geographic distribution of funded projects
• Impact potential: Overall impact potential of the portfolio

Fast Track Success Stories

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

• Technology validation: Successful validation of technologies from Transition to Accelerator
• Market deployment: Successful market deployment and commercialisation
• Investment success: Successful attraction of follow-on investment
• Business growth: Significant business growth and market expansion
• Job creation: Creation of jobs and economic value

Fast Track Challenges and Mitigation

Fast Track applicants may face several challenges:

1. Common Challenges

• TRL requirements: Meeting the higher TRL requirements for Accelerator
• Business model development: Developing robust business models
• Team scaling: Scaling team capabilities for Accelerator requirements
• Market validation: Conducting comprehensive market validation
• Financial planning: Developing detailed financial projections

2. Mitigation Strategies

• Early planning: Begin planning early in the Transition project
• Expert support: Seek expert support for business development
• Market research: Conduct thorough market research and validation
• Team building: Build strong team with necessary capabilities
• Financial modeling: Develop comprehensive financial models

Fast Track Best Practices

Best practices for successful Fast Track applications include:

• Early planning: Begin Fast Track planning early in the Transition project
• TRL tracking: Continuously track and document TRL progression
• Market engagement: Engage with potential customers and partners early
• Business model iteration: Iterate and refine business model based on feedback
• Team development: Develop team capabilities throughout the Transition project
• Financial preparation: Prepare detailed financial projections and funding requirements

Fast Track Impact

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

• Pipeline efficiency: Improved efficiency of the innovation pipeline
• Success rates: Higher success rates for Transition projects
• Market deployment: Accelerated market deployment of innovations
• Investment attraction: Increased attraction of private investment
• Economic impact: Enhanced economic impact of EIC investments

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
• Scheme expansion: Potential expansion to additional programmes and schemes

The Fast Track scheme represents a crucial linkage in the EIC innovation pipeline, providing EIC Transition beneficiaries with streamlined access to the significant funding and support available through the EIC Accelerator programme. This pathway ensures that successful technology validation projects can progress efficiently to market deployment and scaling, maximising the impact of EIC investments in European innovation.

16. Intellectual Property and Access Rights

Intellectual Property (IP) and Access Rights are fundamental aspects of the EIC Transition programme, ensuring that innovations are properly protected for future exploitation while maintaining appropriate access for research and development purposes. The programme employs a balanced approach that supports both commercial development and scientific advancement.

Intellectual Property Requirements

EIC Transition projects must demonstrate appropriate intellectual property rights ownership or access. Applicants must confirm in their proposal that they are the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) owner or holder and have the necessary rights to commercialise the results of the project for the whole duration of the EIC Transition project.

1. IPR Ownership Requirements

The programme has specific requirements for IPR ownership and access:

• Ownership confirmation: Applicants must confirm IPR ownership or holder status
• Commercialisation rights: Must have rights to commercialise project results
• Duration coverage: Rights must cover the whole duration of the EIC Transition project
• Scope coverage: Rights must cover all relevant project results
• Territorial coverage: Rights must be valid in relevant territories

2. IPR Verification Process

The IPR verification process includes:

• Proposal confirmation: Confirmation of IPR status in the proposal
• Documentation review: Review of IPR documentation and agreements
• Rights verification: Verification of commercialisation rights
• Duration verification: Verification of rights duration
• Scope verification: Verification of rights scope and coverage

Formal IP Protection Requirements

It is expected that the intellectual property generated by EIC Transition projects is formally protected in an adequate way. This includes:

1. Protection Types

• Patents: Patent protection for inventions and technological innovations
• Trademarks: Trademark protection for brands and product names
• Designs: Design protection for product designs and appearances
• Copyright: Copyright protection for software, documentation, and creative works
• Trade secrets: Protection of confidential information and know-how

2. Protection Adequacy

IP protection must be adequate for the specific innovation:

• Scope adequacy: Protection must cover the core innovation
• Territorial adequacy: Protection must cover target markets
• Duration adequacy: Protection must last for sufficient time
• Strength adequacy: Protection must be strong enough to prevent infringement
• Enforcement adequacy: Protection must be enforceable in practice

IP Strategy Development

EIC Transition projects must develop comprehensive IP strategies:

1. IP Strategy Components

• Protection strategy: Strategy for protecting different types of IP
• Filing strategy: Strategy for patent and trademark filings
• Territorial strategy: Strategy for territorial protection
• Timing strategy: Strategy for timing of IP protection
• Enforcement strategy: Strategy for IP enforcement

2. Freedom to Operate Analysis

Projects must conduct freedom to operate (FTO) analysis:

• Patent landscape analysis: Analysis of existing patents in the field
• Infringement risk assessment: Assessment of infringement risks
• Licensing needs identification: Identification of licensing needs
• Risk mitigation strategies: Strategies for mitigating IP risks
• Competitive analysis: Analysis of competitive IP landscape

Access Rights and Open Science

The programme balances IP protection with open science principles:

1. Open Access Requirements

• Publication requirements: Requirements for open access publication
• Data sharing: Requirements for sharing research data
• Knowledge dissemination: Requirements for knowledge dissemination
• Scientific collaboration: Support for scientific collaboration

2. Access Rights Framework

The programme provides access rights to project results:

• Beneficiary access: Access rights for project beneficiaries
• Research access: Access rights for research purposes
• Commercial access: Access rights for commercial purposes
• Public access: Access rights for public benefit

IP Management in Consortia

For consortium projects, IP management becomes more complex:

1. Consortium IP Agreements

• Background IP: Management of pre-existing IP
• Foreground IP: Management of IP generated during the project
• Access rights: Rights of access to project results
• Exploitation rights: Rights for commercial exploitation
• Revenue sharing: Arrangements for sharing IP revenues

2. IP Coordination

• Centralised management: Centralised IP management approach
• Clear responsibilities: Clear allocation of IP responsibilities
• Communication protocols: Protocols for IP communication
• Dispute resolution: Mechanisms for resolving IP disputes

IP Support Services

The programme provides support for IP protection and management:

1. IP Guidance Services

• IP strategy development: Guidance on IP strategy development
• Patent filing support: Support for patent filing processes
• FTO analysis support: Support for freedom to operate analysis
• IP valuation support: Support for IP valuation
• Licensing support: Support for licensing negotiations

2. IP Training and Education

• IP awareness training: Training on IP awareness and importance
• Patent strategy training: Training on patent strategy development
• IP management training: Training on IP management practices
• Enforcement training: Training on IP enforcement

IP and Commercialisation

IP protection is crucial for successful commercialisation:

1. Commercialisation Support

• Market protection: IP protection for market entry
• Competitive advantage: IP as competitive advantage
• Investment attraction: IP as investment attraction factor
• Licensing opportunities: IP for licensing opportunities
• Partnership facilitation: IP for partnership facilitation

2. IP Valuation

• Market value assessment: Assessment of IP market value
• Strategic value assessment: Assessment of IP strategic value
• Investment value assessment: Assessment of IP investment value
• Licensing value assessment: Assessment of IP licensing value

IP Risk Management

Projects must manage IP-related risks:

1. IP Risk Identification

• Infringement risks: Risks of infringing others' IP
• Protection risks: Risks of inadequate IP protection
• Enforcement risks: Risks of IP enforcement difficulties
• Competition risks: Risks from competitive IP
• Legal risks: Risks from IP legal challenges

2. IP Risk Mitigation

• Comprehensive FTO analysis: Thorough freedom to operate analysis
• Strong IP protection: Strong and comprehensive IP protection
• Monitoring systems: Systems for monitoring IP landscape
• Legal support: Access to legal support for IP matters
• Insurance coverage: IP insurance coverage where appropriate

IP and Investment Readiness

IP protection is essential for investment readiness:

1. Investment Attraction

• IP as asset: IP as valuable asset for investors
• Market protection: IP protection for market opportunities
• Competitive moat: IP as competitive moat
• Revenue potential: IP revenue potential
• Exit value: IP value for exit strategies

2. Due Diligence Preparation

• IP documentation: Comprehensive IP documentation
• IP portfolio review: Review of IP portfolio
• IP strategy presentation: Presentation of IP strategy
• IP risk assessment: Assessment of IP risks
• IP valuation preparation: Preparation for IP valuation

IP Monitoring and Compliance

Projects must monitor and comply with IP requirements:

1. IP Monitoring

• IP landscape monitoring: Monitoring of IP landscape changes
• Competitor IP monitoring: Monitoring of competitor IP
• IP protection monitoring: Monitoring of IP protection status
• IP enforcement monitoring: Monitoring of IP enforcement

2. IP Compliance

• Regulatory compliance: Compliance with IP regulations
• Contractual compliance: Compliance with IP contracts
• Reporting requirements: Compliance with IP reporting requirements
• Access rights compliance: Compliance with access rights requirements

IP Best Practices

Best practices for IP management in EIC Transition projects include:

1. Early IP Planning

• Early IP strategy: Develop IP strategy early in the project
• Early protection: Seek IP protection early
• Early FTO analysis: Conduct FTO analysis early
• Early documentation: Document IP developments early

2. Comprehensive IP Management

• Holistic approach: Take holistic approach to IP management
• Regular review: Regular review of IP strategy
• Expert consultation: Consult IP experts regularly
• Continuous monitoring: Continuous monitoring of IP landscape

3. IP Education and Training

• Team education: Educate team on IP importance
• IP awareness: Maintain IP awareness throughout project
• Regular training: Regular IP training for team
• Expert access: Access to IP experts when needed

Intellectual Property and Access Rights are fundamental to the success of EIC Transition projects, ensuring that innovations are properly protected while maintaining appropriate access for research and commercialisation purposes. The programme's balanced approach supports both scientific advancement and commercial development, maximising the impact of EIC investments in European innovation.

17. Tech2Market Business Acceleration Services

Tech2Market Business Acceleration Services represent a specialised component of the EIC's comprehensive support ecosystem, specifically designed to support the transition from lab to market. These services are dedicated Business and Innovation Acceleration Services provided to EIC Pathfinder and EIC Transition beneficiaries, offering targeted support for technology transfer and commercialisation activities.

Tech2Market BAS Overview

Tech2Market BAS services are specifically designed to help beneficiaries navigate the complex journey from research and development to market deployment. These services provide specialised support for the critical transition phase where technologies move from laboratory validation to market readiness.

Core Purpose

• Lab-to-market transition: Support the transition from laboratory research to market deployment
• Technology transfer: Facilitate effective technology transfer processes
• Commercialisation support: Support commercialisation of research results
• Market validation: Assist with market validation and customer discovery
• Business development: Support business model development and refinement

Eligibility and Participation

Transition projects are expected and strongly encouraged to apply for Tech2Market BAS services. The participation in these services is considered a key component of successful EIC Transition project implementation.

1. Eligibility Criteria

• EIC Transition beneficiaries: All EIC Transition project beneficiaries are eligible
• Active participation: Projects must actively engage with Tech2Market services
• Service application: Projects must apply for specific Tech2Market services
• Ongoing engagement: Continuous engagement throughout project lifecycle

2. Participation Requirements

• Strong encouragement: Strong encouragement to apply for Tech2Market BAS services
• Mandatory coaching: Coaching for Transition projects is mandatory unless well justified
• Justification for opt-out: Projects can opt out only if already provided by other ecosystem players
• Recommendation follow-up: Projects are expected to follow up on recommendations from Programme Managers

Tech2Market Service Portfolio

Tech2Market BAS services offer a comprehensive portfolio of support services specifically tailored to the needs of technology transfer and commercialisation:

1. Business Validation Programme

The Business Validation Programme is a key component of Tech2Market services:

• Market validation: Support for market validation activities
• Customer discovery: Assistance with customer discovery processes
• Value proposition development: Support for value proposition development
• Business model validation: Validation of business models
• Market research support: Support for market research activities

2. Venture Building Programme

The Venture Building Programme supports the creation and development of ventures:

• Venture creation: Support for venture creation processes
• Team building: Assistance with team building and development
• Organisational development: Support for organisational development
• Strategic planning: Assistance with strategic planning
• Investment preparation: Support for investment preparation

3. Opportunities Exploration Phase

Support for exploring commercialisation opportunities:

• Opportunity identification: Identification of commercialisation opportunities
• Market analysis: Comprehensive market analysis
• Competitive analysis: Analysis of competitive landscape
• Technology assessment: Assessment of technology commercialisation potential
• Pathway exploration: Exploration of different commercialisation pathways

4. Team Creation Support

Support for building effective teams:

• Team assessment: Assessment of team capabilities and gaps
• Recruitment support: Support for team recruitment
• Skill development: Development of necessary skills
• Leadership development: Development of leadership capabilities
• Team dynamics: Support for team dynamics and collaboration

Specialised Support Services

Tech2Market services provide specialised support in key areas:

1. Technology Transfer Support

• Transfer strategy: Development of technology transfer strategies
• IP management: Support for intellectual property management
• Licensing support: Assistance with licensing processes
• Spin-off creation: Support for spin-off creation
• Partnership development: Development of strategic partnerships

2. Commercialisation Support

• Market entry strategy: Development of market entry strategies
• Go-to-market planning: Planning for go-to-market activities
• Sales strategy: Development of sales strategies
• Marketing support: Support for marketing activities
• Customer acquisition: Support for customer acquisition

3. Investment Readiness Support

• Investment preparation: Preparation for investment rounds
• Financial modeling: Support for financial modeling
• Pitch development: Development of investment pitches
• Due diligence preparation: Preparation for due diligence
• Investor networking: Access to investor networks

Service Delivery Model

Tech2Market services are delivered through a comprehensive model:

1. Service Provision

• Expert consultants: Access to expert consultants and advisors
• Specialised training: Specialised training programmes
• Workshops and events: Workshops and networking events
• One-on-one support: Individual support and mentoring
• Network access: Access to relevant networks and contacts

2. Service Coordination

• Integrated approach: Integrated approach with other BAS services
• Tailored support: Support tailored to specific project needs
• Continuous engagement: Continuous engagement throughout project lifecycle
• Progress tracking: Tracking of progress and outcomes
• Impact measurement: Measurement of service impact

Tech2Market and Booster Grants

Tech2Market participation can support Booster grant applications:

1. Booster Grant Eligibility

• Participation requirement: Participation in Tech2Market BAS programme can support Booster grant eligibility
• Business Validation Programme: Participation in Business Validation Programme
• Venture Building Programme: Participation in Venture Building Programme
• Positive recommendation: Can lead to positive recommendations for Booster grants

2. Enhanced Support

• Additional funding: Tech2Market participation can lead to additional funding opportunities
• Enhanced services: Access to enhanced support services
• Network expansion: Expansion of networks and contacts
• Expert access: Access to additional expert support

Tech2Market Success Factors

Successful engagement with Tech2Market services typically involves:

1. Active Participation

• Regular engagement: Regular engagement with Tech2Market services
• Service utilization: Active utilization of available services
• Feedback provision: Provision of feedback on service quality
• Recommendation follow-up: Follow-up on recommendations and advice

2. Strategic Planning

• Service planning: Strategic planning of Tech2Market service utilization
• Goal alignment: Alignment of Tech2Market engagement with project goals
• Resource allocation: Appropriate allocation of resources for Tech2Market engagement
• Impact measurement: Measurement of Tech2Market impact on project success

Tech2Market Impact and Outcomes

Tech2Market services are designed to generate significant impact:

1. Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced commercialisation: Improved commercialisation success rates
• Market validation: Better market validation and customer understanding
• Technology transfer: More effective technology transfer processes
• Business development: Improved business model development
• Investment readiness: Enhanced investment readiness

2. Success Metrics

• Commercialisation success: Successful commercialisation of technologies
• Market entry: Successful market entry and customer acquisition
• Technology transfer: Successful technology transfer to market
• Investment success: Success in securing follow-on funding
• Venture creation: Successful creation of ventures

Tech2Market Best Practices

Best practices for successful Tech2Market engagement include:

1. Early Engagement

• Early participation: Participate in Tech2Market services early in the project
• Regular involvement: Regular involvement in Tech2Market activities
• Service exploration: Explore all available Tech2Market services
• Expert consultation: Regular consultation with Tech2Market experts

2. Strategic Utilization

• Service selection: Strategic selection of relevant services
• Goal alignment: Alignment of service utilization with project goals
• Resource optimization: Optimization of resources for service utilization
• Impact maximization: Maximization of service impact on project success

3. Continuous Learning

• Learning integration: Integration of learning from Tech2Market services
• Knowledge application: Application of knowledge gained from services
• Skill development: Development of skills through service participation
• Network building: Building networks through service participation

Tech2Market Integration with Other Services

Tech2Market services integrate with other EIC support services:

1. Integration with BAS

• Comprehensive support: Integration with comprehensive BAS services
• Service coordination: Coordination with other BAS services
• Synergy exploitation: Exploitation of synergies between services
• Enhanced impact: Enhanced impact through service integration

2. Integration with Programme Management

• Programme Manager support: Support from EIC Programme Managers
• Strategic guidance: Strategic guidance for service utilization
• Recommendation coordination: Coordination of recommendations
• Portfolio management: Integration with portfolio management

Tech2Market Business Acceleration Services represent a crucial component of the EIC's support ecosystem, providing specialised assistance for the critical transition from laboratory research to market deployment. These services ensure that EIC Transition projects have access to the expertise, networks, and support they need to successfully commercialise their innovations and achieve market success.

18. Key Dates and Deadlines 2026

The EIC Transition 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. The 2026 programme features a single application deadline with a comprehensive evaluation process.

Main Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting EIC Transition proposals is 16 September 2026 at 17h00 Brussels local time. This deadline is strictly enforced, and late submissions will not be accepted.

1. Call Opening

• Call opening date: 22 April 2025
• Submission period: From call opening until 16 September 2026
• Portal availability: Funding & Tenders Portal available throughout the period
• Flexibility provision: Director-General may open call up to one month prior to or after envisaged date

2. Submission Requirements

• Portal submission: All proposals must be submitted via the Funding & Tenders Portal
• Portal access: Available directly or through EIC website (https://eic.ec.europa.eu)
• Documentation requirements: Complete proposal with all required documents
• Format compliance: Strict compliance with submission format requirements

3. Deadline 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. The Director-General responsible may also delay the deadline(s) by up to two months if necessary.

Evaluation Timeline

The evaluation process follows a structured timeline with specific milestones:

1. First Evaluation Phase

• Evaluation period: Approximately 9 weeks after the call deadline
• Remote evaluation: Evaluation by EIC expert evaluators
• Scoring completion: Completion of scoring against award criteria
• Feedback provision: Provision of detailed feedback to applicants

2. Interview Phase

• Interview invitation: Approximately 11-13 weeks after the deadline
• Interview preparation: Time for interview preparation
• Jury evaluation: Evaluation by panel of maximum 6 EIC Jury members
• Decision notification: Notification of jury decision

3. Final Decision and Agreement

• Result notification: Indicatively within 4 weeks from the start of the interview
• Grant agreement preparation: Preparation of grant agreement
• Agreement signing: Within 6 months from the call deadline (indicative)
• Project start: Within 2 months after signing the grant agreement

Detailed Timeline Overview

Preparation Timeline

Successful applications require careful planning and preparation well in advance of the deadline:

1. Early Preparation (12-18 months before deadline)

• Technology assessment: Assessment of technology readiness and eligibility
• Team building: Building or strengthening the project team
• Market research: Initial market research and validation
• IP strategy: Development of intellectual property strategy
• Partnership development: Development of key partnerships

2. Proposal Development (6-12 months before deadline)

• Proposal planning: Detailed planning of proposal structure and content
• Technical development: Further technical development and validation
• Business model development: Development and validation of business model
• Financial planning: Detailed financial planning and budgeting
• Risk assessment: Comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation planning

3. Final Preparation (3-6 months before deadline)

• Proposal writing: Writing and refining proposal content
• Expert review: Expert review and feedback on proposal
• Documentation preparation: Preparation of all required documentation
• Portal familiarization: Familiarization with submission portal
• Final validation: Final validation of all proposal elements

4. Submission Phase (1-3 months before deadline)

• Portal submission: Submission via Funding & Tenders Portal
• Documentation upload: Upload of all required documents
• Format verification: Verification of submission format compliance
• Final review: Final review before submission
• Confirmation: Confirmation of successful submission

Important Considerations

1. Deadline Strictness

• No extensions: Individual deadline extensions are not granted
• Late submission: Late submissions are automatically rejected
• Portal closure: Portal closes precisely at deadline time
• Time zone consideration: All times are Brussels local time

2. Portal Requirements

• Registration required: Early registration on Funding & Tenders Portal
• Document preparation: All documents must be prepared in advance
• Format compliance: Strict compliance with document format requirements
• Size limitations: Compliance with file size limitations

3. Evaluation Timeline

• Fixed timeline: Evaluation follows fixed timeline
• No acceleration: Evaluation timeline cannot be accelerated
• Communication: Regular communication about evaluation progress
• Feedback provision: Comprehensive feedback provided to all applicants

Planning Recommendations

1. Timeline Planning

• Backward planning: Plan backwards from the deadline
• Buffer time: Include buffer time for unexpected delays
• Milestone setting: Set clear milestones throughout the process
• Progress tracking: Regular tracking of preparation progress

2. Resource Planning

• Team allocation: Allocate sufficient team resources
• Expert support: Secure expert support well in advance
• Budget planning: Plan budget for preparation activities
• Time allocation: Allocate sufficient time for each preparation phase

3. Risk Management

• Contingency planning: Develop contingency plans for potential delays
• Alternative timelines: Consider alternative timelines if needed
• Resource backup: Have backup resources available
• Communication planning: Plan communication with team and partners

Post-Submission Timeline

After submission, applicants should plan for the evaluation and potential project implementation phases:

1. Evaluation Period

• Patience required: Evaluation takes approximately 9 weeks
• No updates: No updates provided during evaluation
• Preparation for interview: Prepare for potential interview invitation
• Alternative planning: Plan alternative activities during waiting period

2. Interview Preparation

• Immediate preparation: Begin interview preparation immediately upon invitation
• Team preparation: Prepare team for interview participation
• Presentation development: Develop and practice presentation
• Question preparation: Prepare for potential questions

3. Project Implementation Planning

• Early planning: Begin project implementation planning early
• Team recruitment: Plan for team recruitment and development
• Partnership development: Continue partnership development
• Resource planning: Plan for resource allocation and management

Understanding and adhering to these key dates and deadlines is crucial for successful EIC Transition applications. Careful planning and preparation well in advance of the deadline significantly increases the chances of success and ensures smooth project implementation.

19. Success Factors and Best Practices

Success in EIC Transition applications and project implementation requires a comprehensive understanding of the programme's requirements, careful planning, and strategic execution. This section outlines the key success factors and best practices that can significantly increase the chances of securing EIC Transition funding and achieving successful project outcomes.

Essential Success Factors

Several essential factors contribute to successful EIC Transition applications and project implementation:

1. Technology Readiness and Validation

• TRL compliance: Ensure technology meets minimum TRL 3 requirement
• Proof of concept: Demonstrate clear proof of concept
• Technical validation: Provide evidence of technical validation
• Performance demonstration: Demonstrate key performance characteristics
• Innovation clarity: Clear articulation of innovation and novelty

2. Strong Source Project Foundation

• Eligible source project: Build on eligible EU-funded project results
• Clear progression: Demonstrate clear progression from source project
• Results validation: Validate results from source project
• IPR ownership: Ensure clear IPR ownership or access
• Continuity demonstration: Demonstrate continuity and logical progression

3. Robust Business Development

• Market validation: Conduct comprehensive market validation
• Customer engagement: Engage with potential customers early
• Business model development: Develop robust business model
• Value proposition: Clear and compelling value proposition
• Go-to-market strategy: Well-defined go-to-market strategy

4. Strong Team and Capabilities

• Technical expertise: Demonstrate strong technical expertise
• Business capabilities: Show business development capabilities
• Execution capacity: Demonstrate execution capacity
• Team motivation: Show high team motivation and commitment
• Complementary skills: Ensure complementary skills in team

Application Success Factors

1. Proposal Quality

• Clear objectives: Clearly defined and achievable objectives
• Logical structure: Well-structured and logical proposal
• Comprehensive coverage: Comprehensive coverage of all requirements
• Evidence-based: Evidence-based claims and assertions
• Professional presentation: Professional and polished presentation

2. Evaluation Criteria Alignment

• Excellence focus: Strong focus on excellence criteria
• Impact demonstration: Clear demonstration of potential impact
• Implementation quality: High-quality implementation plan
• Risk management: Comprehensive risk identification and mitigation
• Milestone clarity: Clear and measurable milestones

3. Technical and Business Balance

• Dual-track approach: Balance technology and business development
• Market orientation: Strong market orientation throughout
• User-centric approach: User-centric development approach
• Commercial focus: Clear commercial focus and objectives
• Investment readiness: Focus on investment readiness

Project Implementation Success Factors

1. Project Management Excellence

• Clear governance: Clear project governance structure
• Effective coordination: Effective coordination and communication
• Progress monitoring: Regular progress monitoring and reporting
• Risk management: Proactive risk management
• Adaptive management: Adaptive management approach

2. Stakeholder Engagement

• Customer engagement: Continuous customer engagement
• Partner collaboration: Effective partner collaboration
• Expert consultation: Regular expert consultation
• Network building: Active network building
• Communication excellence: Excellent communication with all stakeholders

3. Resource Management

• Efficient resource allocation: Efficient allocation of resources
• Budget management: Effective budget management
• Team development: Continuous team development
• Expertise access: Access to necessary expertise
• Technology access: Access to required technology and facilities

Best Practices for Application

1. Early Preparation

• Start early: Begin preparation 12-18 months before deadline
• Team building: Build strong team early in the process
• Market research: Conduct comprehensive market research
• Technology validation: Validate technology thoroughly
• Partnership development: Develop key partnerships early

2. Comprehensive Planning

• Strategic planning: Develop comprehensive strategic plan
• Risk assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessment
• Financial planning: Develop detailed financial plan
• Timeline planning: Plan realistic timeline
• Resource planning: Plan resource requirements carefully

3. Quality Assurance

• Expert review: Have proposal reviewed by experts
• Peer review: Conduct peer review of proposal
• Feedback integration: Integrate feedback effectively
• Iterative improvement: Improve proposal iteratively
• Final validation: Validate final proposal thoroughly

Best Practices for Project Implementation

1. Project Management

• Clear objectives: Maintain clear project objectives
• Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of progress
• Adaptive management: Use adaptive management approach
• Stakeholder communication: Maintain excellent stakeholder communication
• Risk management: Proactive risk management

2. Technology Development

• User-centric approach: Maintain user-centric development approach
• Iterative development: Use iterative development methodology
• Validation focus: Focus on validation and testing
• Performance optimization: Continuous performance optimization
• Quality assurance: Maintain high quality standards

3. Business Development

• Market engagement: Continuous market engagement
• Customer validation: Regular customer validation
• Business model iteration: Iterate business model based on feedback
• Partnership development: Active partnership development
• Investment preparation: Continuous investment preparation

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Application Pitfalls

• Insufficient TRL: Technology not meeting minimum TRL requirements
• Weak source project: Weak or ineligible source project foundation
• Poor business case: Weak or unclear business case
• Inadequate team: Team lacking necessary capabilities
• Unrealistic objectives: Unrealistic or unachievable objectives

2. Implementation Pitfalls

• Poor project management: Inadequate project management
• Lack of stakeholder engagement: Insufficient stakeholder engagement
• Resource constraints: Inadequate resource allocation
• Risk mismanagement: Poor risk identification and management
• Communication failures: Poor communication and coordination

3. Commercialisation Pitfalls

• Market misalignment: Technology not aligned with market needs
• Weak value proposition: Unclear or weak value proposition
• Poor business model: Inadequate business model
• Lack of customer validation: Insufficient customer validation
• Investment unpreparedness: Lack of investment readiness

Success Measurement and Monitoring

1. Key Performance Indicators

• Technical milestones: Achievement of technical milestones
• Business milestones: Achievement of business milestones
• Market validation: Progress in market validation
• Customer engagement: Level of customer engagement
• Investment readiness: Progress toward investment readiness

2. Progress Monitoring

• Regular reporting: Regular progress reporting
• Milestone tracking: Tracking of milestone achievement
• Risk monitoring: Continuous risk monitoring
• Stakeholder feedback: Regular stakeholder feedback collection
• Adaptive adjustment: Adaptive adjustment based on progress

3. Success Evaluation

• Impact assessment: Assessment of project impact
• Commercialisation success: Evaluation of commercialisation success
• Technology advancement: Assessment of technology advancement
• Market penetration: Evaluation of market penetration
• Investment attraction: Assessment of investment attraction

Continuous Improvement

1. Learning and Adaptation

• Continuous learning: Continuous learning from experience
• Feedback integration: Integration of feedback and lessons learned
• Process improvement: Continuous process improvement
• Best practice adoption: Adoption of best practices
• Innovation focus: Focus on innovation and improvement

2. Network and Collaboration

• Network building: Active network building
• Collaboration development: Development of collaborations
• Knowledge sharing: Active knowledge sharing
• Expert engagement: Regular engagement with experts
• Community participation: Participation in relevant communities

3. Future Planning

• Strategic planning: Long-term strategic planning
• Growth planning: Planning for growth and expansion
• Investment planning: Planning for future investment
• Market expansion: Planning for market expansion
• Technology evolution: Planning for technology evolution

Success in EIC Transition requires a comprehensive approach that combines strong technical foundations, robust business development, effective project management, and continuous learning and adaptation. By following these success factors and best practices, applicants and project teams can significantly increase their chances of securing funding and achieving successful project outcomes.

20. Conclusion and Next Steps

The EIC Transition programme represents a crucial bridge in the European innovation ecosystem, connecting breakthrough research with market-ready technologies. This comprehensive guide has provided detailed information about all aspects of the programme, from eligibility requirements to success factors. As we conclude, it's important to understand the next steps for potential applicants and the broader impact of the programme.

Programme Impact and Significance

The EIC Transition programme plays a vital role in the European innovation landscape:

1. Innovation Pipeline Completion

• Research to market: Completes the innovation pipeline from research to market
• Technology validation: Validates technologies in relevant environments
• Commercialisation support: Supports commercialisation of breakthrough innovations
• Investment readiness: Prepares technologies for investment and scaling
• Market deployment: Facilitates market deployment of innovations

2. European Competitiveness

• Strategic autonomy: Contributes to European strategic autonomy
• Economic growth: Drives economic growth and job creation
• Global leadership: Maintains European global leadership in innovation
• Technology sovereignty: Strengthens European technology sovereignty
• Innovation ecosystem: Strengthens the European innovation ecosystem

3. Societal Impact

• Societal challenges: Addresses key societal challenges
• Environmental solutions: Develops environmental and sustainability solutions
• Health innovations: Advances health and medical innovations
• Digital transformation: Supports digital transformation
• Quality of life: Improves quality of life for European citizens

Key Programme Strengths

The EIC Transition programme offers several key strengths that make it unique and valuable:

1. Comprehensive Support

• Financial support: Significant financial support up to EUR 2.5 million
• Business acceleration: Comprehensive Business Acceleration Services
• Expert guidance: Access to expert guidance and mentoring
• Network access: Access to extensive networks and partnerships
• Additional funding: Access to Booster grants and additional support

2. Flexible Structure

• Organisational flexibility: Flexible organisational structures
• Pathway options: Multiple pathways to market
• Consortium options: Various consortium configurations
• Adaptive approach: Adaptive approach to project needs
• Customised support: Customised support for each project

3. Strategic Integration

• Pipeline integration: Integration with broader EIC pipeline
• Fast Track access: Fast Track access to EIC Accelerator
• Portfolio management: Strategic portfolio management
• Synergy exploitation: Exploitation of synergies across programmes
• European coordination: Coordination with European innovation efforts

Next Steps for Potential Applicants

For organisations considering EIC Transition applications, the following next steps are recommended:

1. Immediate Actions (Next 1-3 months)

• Eligibility assessment: Assess eligibility and requirements
• Technology evaluation: Evaluate technology readiness and TRL
• Team assessment: Assess team capabilities and gaps
• Market research: Conduct initial market research
• Partnership exploration: Explore potential partnerships

2. Preparation Phase (3-6 months)

• Detailed planning: Develop detailed project plan
• Business model development: Develop and validate business model
• Financial planning: Develop comprehensive financial plan
• Risk assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessment
• Expert consultation: Seek expert consultation and advice

3. Application Phase (6-12 months)

• Proposal development: Develop comprehensive proposal
• Expert review: Have proposal reviewed by experts
• Documentation preparation: Prepare all required documentation
• Portal registration: Register on Funding & Tenders Portal
• Final submission: Submit proposal before deadline

Strategic Considerations

1. Long-term Planning

• Strategic alignment: Ensure alignment with long-term strategy
• Resource planning: Plan for long-term resource requirements
• Growth planning: Plan for growth and expansion
• Investment planning: Plan for future investment needs
• Market planning: Plan for market expansion and penetration

2. Risk Management

• Risk identification: Identify potential risks and challenges
• Risk mitigation: Develop risk mitigation strategies
• Contingency planning: Develop contingency plans
• Resource backup: Ensure backup resources and capabilities
• Adaptive approach: Maintain adaptive approach to challenges

3. Success Preparation

• Implementation planning: Plan for successful implementation
• Team preparation: Prepare team for project implementation
• Partnership preparation: Prepare for partnership management
• Communication planning: Plan for effective communication
• Monitoring preparation: Prepare for progress monitoring

Support and Resources

Numerous support resources are available to help applicants and project teams:

1. EIC Support Services

• Business Acceleration Services: Comprehensive BAS support
• Tech2Market services: Specialised Tech2Market support
• Programme Manager guidance: Direct guidance from Programme Managers
• Expert networks: Access to expert networks
• Training programmes: Specialised training programmes

2. External Support

• National contact points: Support from national contact points
• Regional support: Regional innovation support services
• University support: Support from universities and research organisations
• Industry associations: Support from industry associations
• Consulting services: Professional consulting services

3. Information Resources

• EIC website: Comprehensive information on EIC website
• Work Programme: Detailed Work Programme documentation
• Guidance documents: Detailed guidance documents
• Case studies: Success stories and case studies
• Webinars and events: Information sessions and events

Future Outlook

The EIC Transition programme is expected to continue evolving and expanding:

1. Programme Evolution

• Enhanced support: Enhanced support services and resources
• Expanded eligibility: Potential expansion of eligibility criteria
• Improved processes: Continuous process improvement
• Increased funding: Potential for increased funding availability
• Broader impact: Broader impact across European innovation

2. Strategic Development

• Strategic priorities: Alignment with strategic priorities
• Policy integration: Integration with broader policy objectives
• International cooperation: Enhanced international cooperation
• Innovation ecosystem: Strengthening of innovation ecosystem
• Global competitiveness: Enhanced global competitiveness

3. Impact Expansion

• Broader sectors: Expansion to broader sectors
• Geographic expansion: Geographic expansion of impact
• Societal challenges: Enhanced focus on societal challenges
• Sustainability focus: Increased focus on sustainability
• Digital transformation: Support for digital transformation

Final Recommendations

Based on the comprehensive analysis provided in this guide, the following final recommendations are offered:

1. For Potential Applicants

• Early engagement: Engage early in the application process
• Comprehensive preparation: Prepare comprehensively for application
• Expert consultation: Seek expert consultation and advice
• Strategic alignment: Ensure strategic alignment with programme objectives
• Long-term commitment: Commit to long-term project success

2. For Project Teams

• Strong leadership: Ensure strong project leadership
• Effective communication: Maintain effective communication
• Continuous learning: Embrace continuous learning and adaptation
• Stakeholder engagement: Maintain strong stakeholder engagement
• Quality focus: Maintain focus on quality and excellence

3. For the Innovation Ecosystem

• Collaboration enhancement: Enhance collaboration across the ecosystem
• Knowledge sharing: Promote knowledge sharing and learning
• Network building: Build strong networks and partnerships
• Support strengthening: Strengthen support services and resources
• Impact measurement: Measure and communicate impact effectively

Conclusion

The EIC Transition programme represents a unique and valuable opportunity for organisations seeking to bridge the gap between breakthrough research and market-ready technologies. With its comprehensive support structure, flexible approach, and strategic integration with the broader European innovation ecosystem, the programme offers significant potential for successful technology commercialisation and market deployment.

Success in EIC Transition requires careful planning, strong execution, and continuous adaptation. By following the guidance provided in this comprehensive guide, potential applicants can significantly increase their chances of securing funding and achieving successful project outcomes. The programme's impact extends beyond individual projects, contributing to European competitiveness, economic growth, and societal progress.

As the European innovation landscape continues to evolve, the EIC Transition programme will play an increasingly important role in ensuring that breakthrough research translates into market success, driving European leadership in innovation and technology development. The future of European innovation depends on successful programmes like EIC Transition that bridge the gap between research and market deployment.

For organisations ready to take the next step in their innovation journey, the EIC Transition programme offers a clear pathway to success, supported by comprehensive resources, expert guidance, and a strong European innovation ecosystem. The time to act is now, and the opportunities are significant for those prepared to seize them.