Eurostars

Eurostars supports innovative SMEs and project partners by funding international collaborative R&D and innovation projects.

What is Eurostars about?

Eurostars is the largest international programme for SMEs in Europe including some countries outside Europe. Eurostars is managed by EUREKA – a publicly-funded, intergovernmental network, involving over 40 countries. The programme specifically co-finances the development of new products and technologies.

Who can apply?

Eurostars provides co-financing for R&D activities. Even though the Eurostars programme aims at supporting SMEs, other entities (such as large companies, universities, and research institutes) can participate. However, some countries only provide funding for SMEs. There must be a minimum of two partners from two different participating countries in the project.

Upon successful application, partners will receive:

• A consortium total of €0.5-1.5 million for technology and product development
• SME funding rates of typically 50-60%

What are the main criteria for eligibility?

Eurostars supports R&D projects with a high degree of technological challenge and involving at least two partners.

The main requirements to be eligible for support from Eurostars are:

• The consortia must consist of a minimum of two partners from two EUREKA countries. Partners must be independent of each other and established in at least two different Eurostars countries. Organizations from any other country may participate (as a third country), but only if two Eurostars countries are already in the project.
• The consortia must be led by an R&D-performing SME. Other SMEs, research institutes, universities, and large enterprises may also participate. However, the project leader must be an R&D-performing SME from a Eurostars country.
• A minimum of 50% of the budget must be allocated to the R&D-performing SME(s).
• The product/technology must be novel and innovative.
• The project must result in significant growth in terms of turnover and employment within the participating SME(s) .

With regards to Denmark, Danish SMEs older than three years must present a yearly turnover of DKK 2 million in the latest financial year OR an external capital investment of a minimum of DKK 500,000 within the past three years. Startups must submit a detailed business plan with solid information on sales, expected turnover, market, and possible investors.