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.
Source: The EU is supporting 70 deep tech startups with new pre-accelerator funding
