The European Commission has announced the selection of 70 early-stage deep tech companies to take part in its EIC Pre-Accelerator programme
The EIC Pre-Accelerator programme focuses on “widening countries” under Horizon Europe, as well as associated nations and outermost regions, where start-up ecosystems often face structural challenges. By directing funding and support to these areas, the initiative aims to unlock untapped potential and reduce disparities across Europe.
The selected companies come from 22 countries, with Portugal, Estonia, and Turkey leading in the number of successful applications. Together, they will receive approximately €32.5 million in funding, with each company eligible for up to €500,000 to develop and scale their technologies.
The 70 companies span deep-tech innovation across healthcare and clean energy, advanced electronics, and environmental solutions.
Some of the selected projects include technologies focused on non-invasive insulin delivery, smart optical sensors to improve water and energy efficiency, and new methods for harnessing wave energy. Other innovations include next-generation mRNA cancer vaccines and specialised microcontrollers for space systems.
This diversity highlights the programme’s role in supporting solutions to some of Europe’s most pressing challenges, including sustainability, public health, and digital transformation.
Readiness for investment
In addition to financial support, the EIC Pre-Accelerator is designed to prepare companies for the next stage of growth. Participants receive tailored guidance to improve their business models, strengthen investor readiness, and advance their technologies toward commercial viability.
The programme also helps start-ups position themselves for future funding opportunities, particularly through the EIC Accelerator, while connecting them with national and regional support schemes.
An important feature of this year’s selection is the level of female leadership, with 24% of the funded projects coordinated by women.
Excellence beyond the winners
Due to budget limitations, not all high-quality applicants could be funded. However, 320 additional companies have been awarded the Seal of Excellence, a recognition that highlights their potential and supports their access to alternative funding sources.
This ensures that strong projects still have opportunities to progress, even without direct financial backing from this call.
Plans for expansion
Looking ahead, the European Commission plans to expand the initiative in the next funding cycle. The upcoming EIC Pre-Accelerator call, scheduled under the 2026–2027 WIDERA work programme, will have a total budget of €40 million.
Funding per company is expected to increase to €1 million, underlining a growing commitment to early-stage deep tech innovation. Applications are anticipated to open by November 2027.
As Europe seeks to strengthen its position in global technology development, initiatives like the EIC Pre-Accelerator are set to play an increasingly important role in supporting start-ups and bridging the innovation gap across regions.
