Pilot access schemes to Technology Infrastructures for European startups, scaleups and innovative SMEs (CSA)

The pilot access program targets European start-ups, high-growth scale-ups, and innovative SMEs with the aim of establishing and testing standardized and rapid access to modern research and technology infrastructures in priority areas such as advanced materials, clean energy, health, and biotechnology. Through a Europe-wide networked consortium, multi-center access schemes are developed that follow a clearly structured procedure: starting with an open market and needs analysis to validate requirements, central calls for proposals are then created and implemented. Two to three coordinated phases enable parallel project awards and compare different solution approaches to determine an optimal combination of expertise, cost-effectiveness, and degree of innovation. Upon successful implementation, participants benefit from 100% funding of eligible expenses and a duration of 36 months. The total budget amounts to €5,000,000, provided as lump-sum funding for subsidized access costs, management and coordination efforts, as well as personnel expenses.

Eligible entities are legal persons from EU Member States, Associated Countries, and, where applicable, other third countries involved as consortium partners or affiliated entities in the application. Evaluation is conducted through a single-stage procedure focusing on the excellence of the access model, the expected market impact, and the quality of consortium collaboration. Project proposals are assessed based on clearly defined milestones and outcome models, with all activities required to be demonstrated in a detailed financial and project plan. The submission deadline is 02/02/2027 at 17:00 (Brussels time). Applying companies must submit standardized application forms, project descriptions, financial plans, and CVs of key personnel to ensure transparent and fair evaluation.