EIC STEP Scale Up (EU)

What is the EIC STEP Scale Up scheme?

The EIC STEP Scale Up scheme is part of the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) and supports high-risk, high-impact startups and SMEs in scaling strategic technologies vital for Europe’s sovereignty and competitiveness. The programme focuses on catalyzing major funding rounds with equity investments of €10–30 million, bridging the financing gap for disruptive innovations in areas like semiconductors, AI, quantum, advanced clean technologies, and cutting-edge biotech.

The investments are managed by the EIC Fund and aim to attract further private capital while strengthening the EU’s position in global technology leadership.

Who can apply?

• Startups, SMEs, and small mid-caps (up to 499 employees) legally established in an EU Member State or Associated Country.

• Qualified investors may also apply on behalf of eligible companies, provided they demonstrate alignment with STEP objectives.

A key requirement is a pre-commitment from a qualified investor covering at least 20% of the total target funding round. Companies must show evidence of market traction and potential to scale across Europe and beyond.

What type of support can a project apply for?

The EIC STEP Scale Up scheme provides equity-only investments of €10–30 million to help companies scale their operations, industrialize production, expand internationally and accelerate commercial deployment.

In addition to funding, successful applicants gain access to Business Acceleration Services (BAS), including global partner networks, expert coaching and mentoring, peer exchange and ecosystem integration, and visibility via the STEP Sovereignty Seal, opening doors to other EU instruments and investors.

What types of technologies are eligible?

Projects must target one or more of the following strategic domains:

Digital & deep tech:
Semiconductors, AI, quantum technologies, robotics, autonomous systems, sensing, advanced connectivity

Clean technologies:
Net-zero solutions such as solar, wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, nuclear, geothermal, energy storage, circular economy innovations

Biotechnologies:
DNA/RNA platforms, gene vectors, synthetic biology, nanobiotech, bioinformatics, cell engineering, advanced therapeutics

How much funding can a project apply for?

Investments go from a minimum of €10 million, to a maximum of €30 million. The total budget allocated for 2025 is €300 million.

These investments are typically part of larger funding rounds involving public and private capital. The EIC Fund acts as a cornerstone investor to attract additional funding.

What are the evaluation criteria?

Proposals are evaluated on:

• Strategic fit: alignment with STEP priorities and EU sovereignty goals
• Impact potential: scalability, market readiness, and systemic value
• Business and financing plan quality: financial robustness, investment logic, and risk mitigation
• Innovation excellence: breakthrough nature of the technology and its competitive edge
• Team and governance: capacity, commitment, and leadership strength

Successful proposals receive the Sovereignty Seal, whether or not they secure funding, offering visibility and access to additional support services.

How does the application process work?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Required documents include:

• Full business plan (max 50 pages)
• Pitch deck (max 15 pages)
• Pre-commitment from a qualified investor
• Ownership and control declaration

If eligible, applicants are invited to an interview with an EIC Jury. Interview invitations sent 4–6 weeks after application and the final decision is communicated within 2 weeks after the interview.

Can a project be resubmitted if unsuccessful?

Yes. Proposals that are not selected receive detailed feedback and may be resubmitted with improvements. Companies that meet all criteria but are not funded still benefit from the STEP Sovereignty Seal and access to BAS support.