EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges – EU funding for deep tech innovation

Last updated: 9 November 2026

The EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges support high-risk research and innovation projects that turn scientific and technological breakthroughs into practical applications. This European Innovation Council (EIC) pilot funding scheme is part of Horizon Europe. A total of €25 million is available for the second funding stage in 2027, with grants of up to €2.5 million per project. Applications are restricted to projects progressing from the first funding stage.

What are the EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges?

The EIC Advanced Innovation Challenges support deep tech innovations with transformative potential. They focus on technologies backed by extensive research whose commercial uptake remains limited.

The scheme follows a demand-driven approach: companies, public bodies and other potential users are involved early in development. Project teams work with these stakeholders to assess specific applications and develop solutions that address demonstrated needs.

Funding follows two successive stages: an initial feasibility assessment, followed by further development and testing in real-world conditions.

Who can apply in 2027?

The second funding stage is restricted to projects funded under Stage 1. New projects cannot apply directly to Stage 2 in 2027.

Subject to the relevant participation conditions, eligible applicants include:

• Individual start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• Individual universities, research organisations and technology organisations.
• Small consortia of two or three independent organisations.

Applicants must be established in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. Additional requirements apply to the composition of consortia and participation from different countries. Large companies cannot apply as single applicants.

Research teams, individual researchers and inventors may participate through their eligible organisation.

How much funding is available?

Grants are awarded as lump sum funding. The funding rate is 100% of eligible costs.

The total budget for Stage 2 in 2027 is €25 million.

Which topics are supported?

The second funding stage continues the two Challenges launched in 2026.

Physical AI and intelligent robotics

This Challenge supports technologies that combine artificial intelligence with physical systems. Examples include robots capable of perceiving their surroundings, acting autonomously and collaborating with people.

Research and innovation projects should advance the development and practical deployment of these solutions.

New biomedical testing methods

This Challenge focuses on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs): approaches that can replace, reduce or refine animal use in the development and testing of medicines.

Funding supports the further development of these methods for biomedical research and their subsequent practical application.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline for Stage 2 applications is 15 June 2027 at 17:00 CEST (Brussels local time).

The first funding stage is already closed. Its application deadline was 26 February 2026.

How do you apply, and how are projects selected?

Applications are submitted through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.

For Stage 2, applicants present their research and innovation projects to an expert jury. The assessment considers:

• The results achieved in Stage 1 and the innovation’s breakthrough potential.
• The proposed development and testing activities.
• The potential applications and evidence of market interest.
• The team’s expertise, work plan and allocation of resources.

Stage 2 funding is awarded competitively. Participation in Stage 1 does not automatically lead to further funding.

Additional support from the EIC

Funded projects gain access to the EIC Business Acceleration Services. These include coaching, mentoring, training and opportunities to connect with companies, investors and international partners.

EIC funding advice from BayFOR

The Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) helps companies and research organisations in Bavaria identify suitable EU funding opportunities for their research and innovation projects.

BayFOR’s SME advisory team supports start-ups and SMEs in assessing their innovation, identifying appropriate funding schemes and preparing funding applications.

Contact BayFOR to discuss which EIC funding scheme could support your research and innovation project and what steps to take next.