European Innovation Council - Advanced Innovation Challenges

Deadline

• Stage 1: 26 February 2026, 17:00 Brussels time

• Stage 2: 18 June 2027 (indicative), 17:00 Brussels time
  (Only Stage 1-funded projects can apply.)
   

Eligibility

Stage 1 (2026):

• Single legal entity from an EU Member State or Associated Country:

  • Start-up

  • SME

  • University / research organisation / technology organisation

  • Teams, PIs, inventors

• Large companies not eligible

Stage 2 (2027):

• Only Stage 1 winners can apply

• Options:

  • Single applicant (start-up, SME, research organisation)

  • Small consortium of 2 entities from 2 countries

  • Consortium of up to 3 entities (standard Horizon Europe rules)

Funding and duration

Two-stage model:

• Stage 1:

  • €300,000 lump sum

  • Up to 9 months

  • Feasibility, benchmarking, early validation

• Stage 2:

  • Up to €2.5 million lump sum

  • Up to 2.5 years

  • Development, real-world testing, user involvement

All beneficiaries gain access to Business Acceleration Services.

Timeline of the call

1. Stage 1 Submission – Feb 2026
   Proposal submitted via Funding & Tenders Portal
   Covers feasibility, benchmarking, innovation concept

2. Stage 1 Selection & Funding
   Successful proposals receive Stage 1 funding and begin 9-month work plan

3. Stage 2 Call – June 2027 (indicative)
   Only Stage 1-funded projects invited to apply
   Proposal includes development plan and demonstration activities

4. Stage 2 Funding & Implementation
   Up to 2.5 years of development and real-world testing

Contact
Marcello Triulzio

Website