EIC Transition is a funding programme run by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under Horizon Europe, aimed at SMEs, startups, spin-offs and research organisations looking to move from lab-validated technology to a market-ready solution.
What is it about?
The programme supports the maturation and validation of innovative technologies building on results already achieved in previous EU-funded projects (such as EIC Pathfinder, ERC Proof of Concept, or Horizon Europe/Horizon 2020 projects at TRL 3-4), with the goal of reaching TRL 5-6 and developing a solid business plan for specific commercial applications.
Who can apply?
- Single legal entities (SMEs, startups, spin-offs, universities or research organisations) established in a Member State or Associated Country.
- Consortia of 2 to 5 independent legal entities from different countries.
What's on offer?
- Grants of up to €2.5 million, non-dilutive (no equity is given up), to validate and demonstrate the technology in an application-relevant environment.
- Additional booster grants of up to €50,000 for complementary activities aimed at commercialisation.
- Access to Business Acceleration Services (BAS): mentoring, coaching, training and connections with investors, partners and the European innovation ecosystem.
2026 budget and deadlines
The total budget for this 2026 call is €100 million. The deadline for submitting proposals is 16 September 2026.
Application process
Selection takes place in three stages: submitting the proposal through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal, evaluation by independent experts and, finally, an interview with an EIC jury.