Innovate UK are leading a scheme focused on supporting UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop proposals across a wide range of sectors under Pillar 2 and Pillar 3 of Horizon Europe for EIC Pathfinder and Transition opportunities. Successful applicants will have access to grant funding of up to £5,000 (excluding VAT).
Who should apply?
To qualify for the Horizon Europe Pump Priming funding schemes, applicants must meet specific criteria.
- UK registered business
- Business is trading and not a holding or dormant company
- Business has fewer than 250 employees
- The support to be provided will not exceed their rolling three-year Minimal Financial Assistance Allowance
- Applications must identify a specific Horizon Europe Pillar 2 or Pillar 3 call and the topic to which they will apply.
- Applications to Pillar 3 must be part of a collaborative Horizon Europe project.
- Applicants will be required to work with a UK National Contact Point and engage with Innovate UK Business Growth.
How does it work?
Successful applicants will have access to grant funding of up to £5,000 (excluding VAT) and are advised to work with a UK National Contact Point in support of their project. Applicants are also given access to a highly experienced Innovate UK Business Growth Innovation and Growth Specialist (IGS) if they are not already a client, to further support their innovation and growth journey.
What is funded?
With the aim of developing a consortium and applying to Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder and Transition programmes, Pump Priming can help with:
- Access to opportunities for collaborative research and innovation
- Explore networking and partnership opportunities
- Support with travel costs to meet with potential consortia and partners
- Develop your Horizon Europe proposal
Additional support for UKRO subscribers
If your organisation subscribes to UKRO, you can access supporting resources such as UKRO Factsheets on the Pillar 2 Cluster areas, Pillar 3 and on how to build a consortium. Check if your organisation is a subscriber.
Next steps
To register your interest, please contact your Innovate UK Business Growth innovation and growth specialist (if already an existing client) or contact the Innovate UK Business Growth Team to apply.
Last updated: 15 November 2024