The EIC ACCESS+ Info Session #2 was held on 21 January 2025 and focused on choosing the right service provider from the EIC Service Catalogue to cover your specific needs. This is an important step for organisations applying for EIC ACCESS+ co-financing, ensuring that the selected provider will be the best match for their goals. The session recording is now available for replay on the EIC Community YouTube channel.
The webinar provided step-by-step guidance for deep-tech startups and SMEs on how to navigate the EIC Service Catalogue and select a service provider that matches their needs. During the session, participants discussed the opportunities provided by the EIC ACCESS+ programme and the application process, and shared success stories from selected EIC Partners that previously offered services to EIC Awardees. Additionally, the webinar showcased the extensive network of partners and investors available through the EIC ACCESS+ Community hub.
🎥 The session recording is available on the EIC YouTube channel.
Key takeaways
- Understanding the EIC Service Catalogue: The session explained the goal of the EIC Service Catalogue - to serve as a curated list of vetted service providers. Accessing this resource can significantly enhance a company’s growth trajectory.
- Eligibility and application process: The application process for the EIC ACCESS+ co-financing scheme was explained, alongside the eligibility criteria. Notably, EIC Awardees and Seal of Excellence holders from the EU and Associated Countries are encouraged to apply. The scheme offers up to EUR 60,000 in grants, covering up to 50% of the costs for eligible services.
- Strategic selection of service providers: Participants received guidance on how to navigate the EIC Service Catalogue, and identify and select service providers that align with their specific growth needs and objectives. This strategic approach is important for maximising the benefits of the co-financing scheme.
- Success stories: The session highlighted a few success stories of EIC Partners that have previously worked with the EIC Awardees, demonstrating the tangible advantages of selecting the right service providers.
EIC ACCESS+: Supporting Europe’s deep-tech Innovators
The EIC ACCESS+ project, an initiative of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Business Acceleration Services, launched an open call in November 2024 offering up to EUR 60,000 in grants to access specialised services from the EIC Service Catalogue for European deep-tech startups and SMEs to accelerate their growth and scale their innovations, covering up to 50% of the costs. The call is open until 31 May 2026. Apply here!
Further information on selecting a service provider
To provide additional guidance for EIC beneficiaries, a visual guide has been created and is now available on the EIC ACCESS+ website. This resource outlines the process of finding, contacting, and selecting the most suitable service provider from the EIC Service Catalogue. Designed to support beneficiaries in aligning their specific needs with the expertise offered by EIC Partners, the guide simplifies the steps required to maximise the benefits of the EIC ACCESS+ co-financing programme.
Who can apply?
The call is open to EIC Awardees (from the EIC Pathfinder, Transition, and Accelerator programs) and Seal of Excellence holders (under the Horizon Europe Programme). The EIC Awardees from the EU countries or the Associate Countries are encouraged to apply. A detailed list of eligibility criteria can be found on the EIC ACCESS+ website.
🌐 How to apply for funding: Learn more on the EIC ACCESS+ website.
About the EIC Service Catalogue
The EIC Service Catalogue is brought to you by the EIC Ecosystem Partnership Programme. This programme is creating a network of partner organisations to address one of the greatest challenges for EIC innovators: accessing specialised sector-focused services. By forging new strategic partnerships with key actors such as business accelerators, incubators, and research and training organisations, the EIC helps its innovators access their resources, facilities and expertise so that no individual need is left unaddressed. These offers are then listed in the EIC Service Catalogue, a searchable platform through which EIC beneficiaries and Seal of Excellence holders can explore the service offers from the EIC Partners.
For any questions or technical issues concerning the programme, please contact us through the EIC Community’s contact page with the subject ‘EIC Ecosystem Partnership Programme’ or contact our helpdesk at eicpartnerships-helpdesk@eic-bas.eu.
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided in the interest of knowledge sharing and should not be interpreted as the official view of the European Commission, or any other organisation.