1 minute read / October 20, 2025
The European Innovation Council (EIC) received 923 full applications from start-ups and SMEs for the EIC Accelerator 01-Oct-2025 cut-off. All together, they request almost €7 billion budget. Blended finance continues to be in high demand – 683 companies (74% of total applicants) requested grants combined with equity investments.
33% of the proposals were submitted by women-led companies (CEO, CTO or CSO). The applicants come from 32 different countries (including 12 widening countries), with the highest number of participants coming from Germany, Spain, and France.
Final decisions on which companies will receive funding are expected by the end of Feb 2026. Read more
If you need help prepare a sound proposal for the first 2026 cut-off, you can use one of the EPN Consulting R&I services. Feel free to get in touch for a FREE 30-min assessment!
