Ukrainian deep-tech startups can now secure up to €500,000 in funding through the EIC Pre-Accelerator program, part of a broader €20 million initiative. Ihor Markevych, EIT Community Officer at EIT Community Hub Ukraine, announced the opportunity.

About the Program and Conditions

• EIC Pre-Accelerator is a joint initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the Widening and Strengthening the European Research Area (WIDERA) program. It is funded under the WIDERA Work Program for 2025.
• Startups can receive grants ranging from €300,000 to €500,000 for a maximum duration of two years. The funding covers 70% of project costs, with the remaining 30% to be co-financed by the startup itself.
• In addition to funding, the program offers extended support, including:
  • Free access to tailored business development services to boost investment readiness — such as mentoring, personalized consulting, and participation in boot camps and pitching sessions.
  • Fast Track access to the EIC Accelerator scheme.

Who Can Apply?

Startups from enlargement countries — including Ukraine — are eligible if they:

• Have a high-impact innovation with a minimum Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4, meaning the technology has been tested in lab conditions with a working prototype.
• Hold the necessary intellectual property rights to ensure freedom to operate and protect the innovation.
• Present a clear go-to-market strategy, including specific, verifiable milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Demonstrate the ambition and commitment to scale their business.

Applications are open until November 18, 2025. Apply here.