EIC Pathfinder Grant
Which projects qualify for funding?

EIC Pathfinder funding is awarded for the implementation of research projects characterized by a high degree of breakthrough potential, the ability to disrupt existing markets, and a significant socio-economic impact. The undertaking must involve high risk while simultaneously carrying the potential for high rewards. EIC Pathfinder provides support for research activities from TRL 1 to TRL 4.

basic research
(TRL 1)

At this stage, research consists of observing and describing basic phenomena and facts. This research is typically scientific research and serves the purpose of acquiring new knowledge in a particular field without specific and practical application.

industrial research
(TRL 2-4)

Research up to TRL 4 is oriented towards economic application and includes the creation of a first prototype with testing and verification in the laboratory of critical components of the technology to prove the validity of the concept (feasibility, practical applicability).

EIC Pathfinder Funding Who can apply?

In the EIC Pathfinder program, applications are primarily open to interdisciplinary science-and-industry consortia. International cooperation is a key factor in securing an EIC Pathfinder grant; therefore, participating entities must represent at least three different associated countries.

SME’s

SME's can apply on their own through Pathfinder Challenges.

International consortia

A consortium of at least three independent entities from at least 3 different associated countries, which can be all types of companies (SMEs, mid-caps and large), as well as scientific entities, universities.

Securing EIC Pathfinder Grant What costs are eligible for funding?

remuneration of the R&D team

subcontracting of R&D work

fixed assets as part of a prototype

purchase of laboratory equipment

research materials and raw materials

depreciation or costs of using WNIP

rental of laboratory space

delegation costs

indirect costs

EIC Pathfinder grant What is the project funding level?

In EIC Pathfinder, the funding intensity is 100%. A maximum of €3 million can be applied for (€4 million for EICP: Challenges).

EIC Pathfinder programme - Guide

READ

EIC Pathfinder 2026
Current calls for applications

You can follow the current competition schedules on the KPK (National Contact Point) websites.

Why
innology?

The R&D application process requires a rare combination of technical expertise, formal regulatory knowledge, and an understanding of evaluation logic. Errors often lead to rejection—rejection rates in the EIC Pathfinder exceed 90%.