European Innovation Council
The European Innovation Council (EIC) was launched in a pilot mode in 2017 to cover the existing instruments for the support of innovations. The EIC is fully operational from 2021, i.e., from the launch of the Horizon Europe Framework Programme.
The goal of the EIC is to make the EU one of the world's most attractive places for innovations and to stimulate European competitiveness. The EIC should particularly help identify, develop and market ground-breaking and disruptive innovations that are radically different from existing products and services. At the same time, it should support the development and growth of innovative companies (especially start-ups and SMEs)
The EIC offers two main instruments: the Accelerator and the Pathfinder, each designed for a different type of innovator.
EIC Pathfinder
The EIC Pathfinder is designed for researchers and technologists who have a vision for a new ground-breaking technology. Applicants can receive up to EUR 4 million (100% of costs). Project proposals must be interdisciplinary in nature and offer a highly unique perspective. The evaluation criteria also include the potential of the project to create new markets and its social and economic impact. Support is provided through a grant.
EIC Accelerator
The EIC Accelerator is focused on start-ups, SMEs and entrepreneurs, with the aim of helping them develop their high-risk projects. Applicants whose planned activities have a TRL in the range of 6–8 are provided support in the form of a grant (up to EUR 2.5 mil., up to 70% of costs). Only blended financing of up to EUR 15 million, combining grant and equity, is granted from TRL 8.
European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT)
The EIT is an independent EU institute created to strengthen Europe’s ability to innovate.
The EIT operates through the integration of a so-called “knowledge triangle”, i.e., the business, research and education spheres. These partnerships, called Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs), address specific global challenges such as climate change, food, health, etc. There are currently eight such partnerships. Two more KICs should be launched in the 2021-2027 programming period, with one focusing on the cultural and creative industries, the other not yet specified.
The EIT supports the development of innovative products and services, helps to set up new companies and train a new generation of entrepreneurs.
More information is available on the website of EIT.
European Innovation Ecosystems
This instrument aims to improve the functioning of the innovation environment across the EU by stimulating cooperation, creating networks and exchanging good practices between support providers in the area of innovation.
The activities supported under this part of the HEU include the EIC Forum. EIC Forum is a platform that unites the public bodies and institutions responsible for the innovation policies and programmes in the EU member states and associated countries and assists their mutual coordination and connection.
This part of the framework programme can also be used to co-fund innovation programmes operated at local, regional or national level. Joint programmes for mentoring, coaching and other support services provided to innovators will also be funded.