The first few years of a startup company are the most important ones. You have a financial capital that is enough to get you started but you also need your ideas to succeed in order for you to start having a revenue. At that is the most stressful part.
Startups are very important for the evolution of the European economy. The EU is supporting them every step of the way. As a result, funding for startups is always part of the European financial frameworks. Every year we notice that the budget increases. Every year more and more programmes are adding calls directed to startups.
With this article, we will attempt to give you a clear view of all the programmes that include calls for startups with as much information as possible, for you to choose the best option for your company.
EIC Accelerator
The EIC Accelerator or as previously known as the SME Instrument is one of Europe’s strongest programmes for startups. The programme provides funding opportunities and acceleration services to startup companies as well as SMEs. It focuses on the high potential of businesses with marketable products and services, strong business plans and a strong ambition to scale up.
As a participant in this programme you have the opportunity to receive up to €2.5 million in grants and €15 million in blended finance.
EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities
The Knowledge and Innovation Communities, led by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), bring together businesses, research centres and universities to collaborate in an environment that allows creative ideas and innovations to flourish.
Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs
Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs is an exchange programme that allows aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from experienced business people in one of the programme’s participating countries. During the exchange, the young entrepreneur will stay with someone experienced in running a small business and learn key skills such as sales, marketing, accounting, customer relations and business financing. The travel and subsistence costs of the participants are funded through a grant.
Calls for Third Parties
Public funding to assist beneficiaries, such as start-ups, scale-ups, SME and/or mid-caps, in the uptake or development of digital innovations.
Eureka- Eurostars
Eurostars, a joint programme between EUREKA and the European Commission, provides funding to small- and medium-sized enterprises involved in research and development. Its particular focus is on supporting SMEs in the development of rapidly marketable, innovative products, processes and services that help improve the daily life of people around the world. To receive funding for their project, startups and SMEs must complete an online application.
To gain access to EU funding opportunities like the ones mentioned above, you need all the help you can get. Especially if you are doing this for the first time. Luckily for you and your startup, some organizations can help you understand the process, guide you and support you every step of the way. Here are some of the consulting networks you can reach out to, to get started in the world of EU funding for your startup:
- The National Contact Points
- The European Enterprise Network
- Europe Direct
Last but not least we have the investment funds. Bellow, you can see some programmes that allow you to register your startup and request funding to grow your business.
- Digital Innovation and Scale-up Initiative (DISC)
- Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Investment Fund
In the EU calls platform, you will get to find all the calls that could appeal to you and your startup. Register today, complete your profile, find calls from the programmes mentioned above and with our personalized environment find the best partners for you.
Don’t forget to use our new feature “Idea Pad” to create and publish your ideas on potential investment options and proposals under European calls.
