Up to €2.5 Million for Dual-Use Technology Startups – EIC Accelerator

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator has expanded its 2026 programme to support startups and SMEs developing technologies with credible civilian and defence applications. Eligible areas can include AI, quantum technologies, advanced materials and robotics.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Up to €2.5 million in grant funding

• Additional equity investment can also be available

• Support for commercialisation and scaling

• Funding for breakthrough technologies with major market potential

• Dual-use innovations are now eligible

• Technologies can serve both civilian and defence markets

• Relevant areas include AI, quantum, advanced materials, robotics and other deep technologies

• Successful companies also gain access to EIC Business Acceleration Services, expertise, investors and ecosystem connections.

Who can apply?

• Startups

• SMEs

• Companies developing breakthrough innovations

• Businesses developing genuine dual-use technologies

• Innovations need a credible business case for both civilian and defence markets

• Purely defence-focused companies should instead consider the dedicated EIC STEP Scale Up Defence programme.

Deadline: 4 November 2026