The European Innovation Council (EIC) is pleased to collaborate with Acclime, Asia’s leading corporate service provider, to offer an exceptional opportunity exclusively to EIC awardees (SMEs and startups). This initiative invites EIC participants, particularly those in the cleantech sectors—such as energy transition, food and agricultural technology, industrial biotechnology, new materials, and construction—to engage with the vibrant Singaporean ecosystem through our comprehensive soft-landing programme.
Recognizing the strategic importance of cleantech in driving sustainable growth, Singapore and Asia present a unique environment for innovation and expansion in these critical sectors. Set in one of the world's most innovative cities and the heart of Asia, the one-week acceleration program will take place from 24th to 30th October 2024.
The EIC, in partnership with Acclime together with strategic partners such as Singapore Economic Development Board, Scalerr, Deep Tech Alliance, K&L Alliance, Cycle Group, will provide unparalleled access to the Asian market through a meticulously curated program. Participants will benefit from the combined expertise, connections, and experience of distinguished professionals, top notch investors, corporates and other relevant ecosystem players. Engaging in transformative activities including workshops, mentorships, networking, and matchmaking events, attendees will also partake in Singapore’s Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH), with a special emphasis on cleantech innovation, the cornerstone of our program.
Deadline extended: Applications are open until 8 July 2024.
What’s in it for you?
Selected EIC beneficiaries participating in the 2024 EIC Soft-landing Programme in Singapore will gain access to a multitude of invaluable opportunities. Through high-level mentoring sessions, participants will experience a tailored, holistic growth journey, leveraging insights from seasoned experts. The program extends beyond conventional offerings, featuring exclusive pre-departure training and workshops designed to enhance strategies for navigating the dynamic Asian market.
Moreover, EIC beneficiaries will attend SWITCH – a premier global platform that convenes leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, accelerators, and investors from the global Asian innovation ecosystem. In 2022, SWITCH attracted over 9,000 in-person attendees, including C-suite executives, founders, and directors from international markets. EIC beneficiaries are encouraged to apply by 1st July 2024 for SLINGSHOT 2024, a prestigious competition held during SWITCH, offering the chance to compete for grants exceeding S$1.2 million.
Cost Responsibility
Please note that selected EIC awardees are responsible for covering their own travel and accommodation expenses for the duration of the programme. Nevertheless, the EIC and Acclime will assist in facilitating these arrangements and provide support wherever possible.
Criteria for Application
The EIC Singapore Soft-landing Programme with Acclime seeks SMEs from the EIC community with a dedicated focus on the cleantech sector. Each selected EIC awardee can nominate up to two representatives to participate in the programme, ideally comprising one C-level executive and one individual focused on sales or business development.
Essential:
Sector: Eligible entities must operate within the climate and clean technology sectors, including but not limited to energy transition, food and agricultural technology, industrial biotechnology, new materials, and construction.
Funding: To be eligible, the entity must have secured EIC funding and have successfully raised Series A funding or be in the advanced stages of securing Series A funding.
Asian Market Expansion: Provide a detailed market entry strategy for the Asian region, including evidence of strategic partnerships or collaborations in Asia.
Operational Readiness: Have an experienced management team with proven capability to manage and scale operations in new markets.
Post-Mission Commitment: Willingness to participate in post-mission support activities.
Application Process
Your application will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Strategic Plan: Clear and actionable strategy for entering Asian markets.
- Impact Assessment: Projected benefits and impact of participating in the EIC Soft Landing Mission to Singapore.
- Market Alignment: How well your innovative products and services meet the needs of Asian markets.
- Resource Commitment: Allocation of financial and human resources to support participation in the soft-landing mission.
To apply, please submit a comprehensive application form including a pitch deck by July 1, 2024. The selection outcomes will be communicated by July 15, 2024. Should you have any questions, please contact Edouard Leonet at e.leonet@acclime.com
About the EIC Soft-landing Programme
Following the EIC International Trade Fairs & USA Soft-landing Programme 3.0 success, the EIC Soft-landing initiative has now its own programme. This new exclusive business acceleration service provides customised guidance and the adequate tools for EIC awardees who have launched and gained traction abroad and want to expand to a new market without keeping their attention away from their main operations at home.
If you’re interested in knowing more about the programme and our open calls, please visit our page in the EIC Community.
Cancellation policy
Cancellations will only be considered in duly documented cases of “force majeure”. Unjustified cancellation can lead to exclusion from future EIC Business Acceleration Services initiatives.
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.