Eligibility varies by funding program, but if your organization meets the required criteria, there’s a strong chance that funding opportunities are available.
For startups & SMEs: If your company specializes in innovative green or digital solutions and technologies, there is a strong likelihood that you qualify for funding opportunities. EU funding provides strong support for businesses focused on sustainability, AI, deep tech, clean energy, smart manufacturing, and digital transformation. Programs like EIC Accelerator, Horizon Europe, and Eurostars are designed for high-growth, innovation-driven companies.
For large corporations: In addition to the same innovation-focused opportunities available to SMEs and startups, large companies can also access funding for infrastructure projects in ICT, energy, and transport—particularly if the project has significant EU-wide impact. Examples include funding for renewable energy grids, smart mobility projects, and large-scale digital infrastructure through programs like CEF (Connecting Europe Facility) and the Innovation Fund.
For R&D institutions & universities: The primary focus is on securing grants for advanced research and innovation. If your institution is involved in groundbreaking technologies, fundamental research, or industry collaboration projects, there are significant funding opportunities under Horizon Europe (including ERC Grants, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, and EIC Pathfinder), Eurostars, and other R&D-focused programs..
For consortiums & partnerships: Many EU programs require cross-border collaboration, meaning companies, universities, and research centers must form consortia to apply. If your organization can establish a robust network of European partners, you may be eligible for collaborative R&D grants, innovation networks, and joint ventures under Horizon Europe and Interreg.
Each funding program has specific criteria, so a tailored funding strategy is essential to maximize your chances of success. Civitta’s experts can help assess your eligibility and find the best-fit funding opportunities.
Yes! Many EU programs are specifically designed to support SMEs, with funding ranging from €10,000 in small grants to tens of millions for large-scale projects.
The type of funding available to your business depends on the stage of your innovation and the scope of your project:
Small & quick grants (€10,000 – €100,000): This includes cascade funding opportunities, where small businesses can receive grants to test, validate, or deploy their technologies.
These grants are usually fast to obtain (projects lasting a few months) and ideal for early-stage experimentation and pilot projects.
Medium-Sized funding (€100,000 – €500,000+): SMEs can participate in collaborative R&D projects under programs like Horizon Europe, Eurostars, LIFE or Digital Europe, where they contribute to the development of an innovative idea, technology, or solution. These projects typically last 1–3 years and provide hundreds of thousands of euros in funding.
Large-scale innovation deployment (€1M – €10M+): The most impactful opportunities enable small businesses to deploy their innovations, particularly in green, digital, and deep-tech solutions. Programs such as EIC Accelerator, LIFE, and Digital Europe offer millions in grants to support market entry, commercialization, and scaling. These projects typically span 3–4 years and assist businesses in bringing disruptive technologies to market.
SMEs, especially those focused on sustainability, AI, clean tech, digital transformation, and advanced manufacturing, are a priority for EU funding. Civitta can help identify the most suitable funding opportunities for your business.