Support to test EIC innovations for public and private procurers

The open EU-wide competition “Support to test EIC innovations for public and private procurers” targets legal entities awarded as Horizon Europe EIC Awardees (Pathfinder, Transition, Accelerator, or laureates) who wish to jointly implement innovative pilot projects with a public or private procurer. Within a maximum duration of 12 months, up to twelve selected pilot trials or proof-of-concept demonstrations can be funded, with each pilot provider receiving a grant of up to €60,000. Support is provided within the framework of the InnoMatch program, which accompanies EIC Awardees and procurers through the phases “Prepare” (2 months), “Deploy” (6 months), and “Assess” (4 months). The goal is to maximize the technical excellence, market readiness, and societal impact of digital, sustainable, or cross-sectoral solutions. Project selection is based on four criteria: Alignment & Impact, Excellence, Commitment, and Team & Implementation.

Interested SMEs can submit their complete applications, including the application form, proposal template, and buyer’s commitment letter, by 4 February 2026, 17:00 CET. After an internal eligibility check, the most promising proposals will undergo external evaluation. Successful projects will benefit, in addition to financial support, from coaching, mentoring, and access to the EIC Innovation Procurement Community, which fosters exchange with other procurers and experts. This not only effectively supports the piloting but also the subsequent commercialization of innovations and builds long-term partnerships between innovative companies and buyers.