The EIC Pathfinder grant is a key European initiative designed to support groundbreaking scientific and technological research. This grant provides financial support to researchers and innovative entrepreneurs (SMEs and startups) who want to develop experimental ideas that have the potential to form entirely new technologies. Unique to the EIC Pathfinder is that it offers two different financing options: EIC Challenges and EIC Open.
EIC Pathfinder Challenges focus on specific societal or technological challenges that are of strategic importance within the EU. These projects must contribute concretely to solving these established challenges, meaning the proposals must closely align with the specific goals and themes predetermined by the EIC. Examples of the challenges in 2024 include:
"Solar-to-X" devices: Development of technologies for synthetic fuels and chemicals, directly powered by solar energy.
Towards cement and concrete as a carbon sink: Innovations that contribute to carbon-negative cement and concrete.
Nature-inspired alternatives for food packaging and films for agriculture: Development of sustainable alternatives for food packaging and agricultural films, inspired by nature.
Nanoelectronics for energy-efficient smart edge devices: Research into solutions that significantly reduce the energy consumption of smart edge devices.
Strengthening the sustainability and resilience of EU space infrastructure: Development of technologies for protecting EU space infrastructure and recycling space debris.
Each of these challenges aims to explore and develop radical technological solutions within a specific theme. This underscores the mission of the EIC Pathfinder not only to innovate but also to provide concrete answers to pressing problems.
EIC Pathfinder Open encourages teams to come up with innovative ideas that fall outside of current trends and technologies. This pathway is open to all types of groundbreaking technologies without thematic restrictions, giving researchers the freedom to explore radical and potentially disruptive ideas.
Who is it for?
The EIC Pathfinder Grant is intended for scientists, researchers, and innovative entrepreneurs working on radical, new technologies. It supports consortia of at least three independent legal entities based in different EU member states or associated countries. The goal is to fund teams that explore high-risk ideas, which could lead to the creation of new markets or disruptively change existing ones.
What can it be used for?
The goal of the EIC Pathfinder is to fund the initial steps in the exploration process of groundbreaking technological ideas. This could include studies on the feasibility of a new technological principle, proof of concept, or early development of an entirely new technology. It focuses on projects that are not yet ready for commercial development but have the potential to have a revolutionary impact in the long term.
How much can you get?
In terms of funding, projects under the EIC Pathfinder can expect grants ranging from approximately €3 to €4 million per project, depending on the stage and complexity of the research. This financial support is designed to cover the costs of research and initial development, allowing innovative ideas to mature into potential new products, services, or processes.
How can you get it?
To be eligible for the EIC Pathfinder, applicants must submit a detailed proposal that aligns with the objectives of the grant. This proposal must not only outline the scientific foundation of the project but also highlight its potentially disruptive nature.
The selection process is highly competitive and is evaluated by a panel of international experts who assess the level of innovation and the project's potential to achieve the proposed technological breakthroughs.
The application process for the EIC Pathfinder requires thorough preparation and a strong understanding of both the technical details and the broader impact of the project. The success of an application often depends on the ability to emphasize not only scientific innovation but also to demonstrate potential future commercial and societal value.
The EIC Pathfinder grant offers a unique opportunity for pioneers in the fields of science and technology to receive financial support in the most crucial and early stages of their research. This support allows them to lay the groundwork for the technologies of tomorrow and contribute to a stronger and more innovative Europe.
PS. In this post we go into detail about the EIC Transition subsidy, meant to bridge the gab between laboratory and market introduction.
PPS. And in this post we tell you all about the EIC Accelerator. A great way to develop and scale groundbreaking technologies.