Our knowledge centre is home to European public funding news, updates here at EXEQ, in-depth funding insights, FAQs, and helpful resources.
EUREKA Eurostars supports innovative SMEs developing new products, processes, or services for European and global markets. Eligible proje...
The Polish Agency for Enterprise Development (PARP) is offering grants up to 107,000 PLN to SMEs applying for support from EU funding pro...
The EIC Accelerator 2025 Work Programme introduces several updates: equity investment capped at €10M, minimum TRL raised to TRL6, and equ...
The National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) has published the results of the CALL 2024 edition of the Research and Innovation...
The European Commission has launched two calls under the Innovation Fund programme, offering €3.4 billion in grants. The IF24 Net-Zero Te...
On December 3, 2024, Exeq proudly participated in the End-of-Year: Research Rewired gathering in Brussels, hosted by the European Associa...
The National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) has launched the second SMART Path call (Ścieżka SMART - Konsorcja) under the Pro...
The European Innovation Council’s 2025 Work Programme, approved by the EU Commission, offers €1.4 billion in funding through its main sch...
The Polish National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) has launched the Seal of Excellence call, allocating 14 million PLN to sup...
Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a system used to estimate the maturity of a technology or product. This method was originally developed by NASA in the 1970s and has since been adopted by other organisations, such as the Department of Defense (DoD), the European Union, and various industries around the world. The TRL system is a scale from 1 to 9, with 9 being the most mature technology.
The levels are defined as follows:
TRL 1: Basic principles observed and reported.
Lowest level of technology readiness. Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and development.
TRL 2: Technology concept and/or application formulated.
Invention begins. Once basic principles are observed, practical applications can be invented. The application is speculative and there is no proof or detailed analysis to support the assumption.
TRL 3: Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept.
Active research and development is initiated, which includes analytical studies and laboratory studies to physically validate analytical predictions of separate elements of the technology.
TRL 4: Component and/or system validation in a laboratory environment.
The basic technological components are integrated to establish that the pieces will work together in a controlled environment
TRL 5: Component and/or system validation in a relevant environment.
Fidelity of the technology increases significantly. The basic technological components are integrated with reasonably realistic supporting elements, so it can be tested in a simulated environment.
TRL 6: System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment.
Representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond the breadboard tested for TRL 5, is tested in a relevant environment.
TRL 7: System prototype demonstration in an operational environment.
Prototype near or at the planned operational system. Represents a major step up in a technology’s demonstrated readiness.
TRL 8: Actual system completed and qualified through test and demonstration.
Technology has been proven to work in its final form and under expected conditions.
TRL 9: Actual system proven through successful mission operations.
The actual application of the technology in its final form and under real-world conditions, such as those encountered in operational tests and evaluations.
In essence, TRLs allow organisations to track the development progress of a technology from the concept stage (TRL 1) through to full technology maturity (TRL 9), providing a consistent framework to compare the maturity of different technologies.
At EXEQ, our priority is to thoroughly understand your company’s innovativeness, as this foundational insight is essential for securing public funding. To effectively showcase your innovative edge, we assist you in developing a clear and compelling description of the problem or challenge your project seeks to address. We emphasise the uniqueness of your approach and the innovative methods you plan to employ, highlighting how these differentiate your project from existing solutions.
Our team conducts a thorough market analysis to demonstrate the demand for your innovation and how the project aligns with current market trends. Additionally, we compare your project to existing competitors or alternatives, emphasising its distinct advantages. We also outline intellectual property protection strategies, such as patents or copyrights, to strengthen your project’s value proposition. Highlighting the qualifications and expertise of your project team further demonstrates your capability to execute the innovation successfully. Collaborations with research institutions, industry partners, or experts add credibility and enhance the reliability of your project. We provide evidence of prototypes or proof of concept to substantiate your innovative claims whenever possible. Furthermore, we incorporate testimonials or industry experts’ references to validate your project’s innovation and potential impact.
Moreover, we outline the long-term impact and scalability of your innovation. Our well-documented and researched proposal, supported by relevant studies and industry reports, further solidifies your claims of innovation, significantly increasing your chances of securing public funding for your innovative endeavours.
Your company’s financial contribution requirement may vary depending on the specific grant program you are pursuing for public funding opportunities.
At EXEQ, our collaborative approach begins with thoroughly analysing the grant guidelines for each opportunity under consideration. We meticulously examine the funding structure to determine whether the grant will comprehensively cover the project costs or if co-financing is necessary.
Prioritising comprehensive budget preparation, our team assesses all projected expenses, encompassing personnel, materials, equipment, travel, and other relevant costs. This allows us to identify whether your organisation must provide a financial contribution.
In instances where a contribution is necessitated, rest assured that we will work closely with your team to devise a strategic plan for securing the necessary funds. This may involve exploring alternative funding sources, forming strategic partnerships, or tapping into your organisation’s resources.
Using funds from another project as your contribution requires carefully evaluating the financial details and specific terms of the granted project. At EXEQ, we thoroughly review the grant’s guidelines to ensure compliance. If permissible, we assist you in strategizing and accurately documenting this contribution within your application. This approach maximises your chances of successfully securing the necessary public funding for your project.
The success of an R&D project hinges on three fundamental pillars: excellence, impact, and implementation Excellence encompasses the project’s scientific or technological quality, its innovative elements, and how well it aligns with the stated objectives. Impact explores the project’s potential societal benefits, commercialization prospects, and strategies for disseminating knowledge. Implementation involves preparing a well-structured project plan with clear milestones and assembling a skilled team with the necessary expertise. In collaborative projects, effective collaboration among partners strengthens the project’s foundation. Additionally, conducting, a robust risk assessment and developing mitigation strategies are crucial for navigating potential challenges. By taking a comprehensive approach to these pillars, EXEQ enhances your project’s viability and significantly increases your chances of securing funding. This strategic focus ensures that your R&D project is not only feasible but also well-positioned for success.
The grant can fund various project-related expenses crucial for successful execution. This includes personnel costs, such as salaries and wages for your project team members and support staff, and the procurement of materials and equipment, including laboratory instruments and software. Travel and accommodation expenses related to project activities, such as trips, conferences, and meetings, may also be covered. Furthermore, the grant may support research and development costs, indirect overheads, and administrative expenses. External services like consulting, data analysis, or specialised expertise can be funded, along with dissemination efforts for project outcomes. Subcontracting costs and intellectual property protection expenses, such as patent applications, may be included for collaborative projects. Additionally, miscellaneous project-related expenses may fall within the grant’s provisions. Understanding the grant program’s guidelines is essential to ascertain eligible costs and potential restrictions. At EXEQ, we tailor your grant application to maximise funding opportunities and ensure the project’s financial requirements align with the grant’s requirements.
EXEQ will perform a comprehensive analysis of the funding landscape to identify opportunities that align best with your project’s goals and financial needs. This ensures that your time and resources are directed toward options that can make the greatest impact.
EXEQ excels in crafting winning grant proposals to help you secure public funding. To ensure your proposal’s success, we focus on key factors: alignment with the funding agency’s objectives, the innovative approach, robust evidence, clear objectives, responsible budgeting, strategic partnerships, a strong evaluation framework, sustainability plans, organisational capacity, and a compelling narrative that adheres to guidelines. With our expertise, your proposal will stand out, increasing your chances of securing the essential public funding needed for your project’s success.
Our team will guide you through the application process step-by-step, assisting with document preparation and submission to ensure a well-crafted application that maximises your chances of success.
The proposal preparation process typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks. However, the exact timeframe can vary based on the specific nature and scope of your proposal. Projects with more straightforward objectives, such as feasibility studies or R&D workshops transitioning from analytical and experimental critical functions to characteristic proof of concept, tend to fall within the shorter end of this spectrum. On the other hand, more intricate endeavours, such as complex R&D projects entailing the preparation of comprehensive financial annexes, may extend towards the longer end of the timeline. This flexibility allows us to tailor our approach to meet the unique needs and complexities of your project, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
The time you need to commit depends on the complexity and duration of the project Typically, you can expect to spend between 13 and 20 hours participating in workshops that are essential for developing the initial versions of key parts of your application. During these workshops, we delve into various aspects of the project, including project phases, technological challenges, timelines, personnel, budgeting, innovation, and competition. These workshops will be scheduled across multiple sessions to fit your availability and we will provide information in advance about the topics to ensure you are well-prepared. Additionally, you will need approximately 3 hours to provide information about your team and the technical resources you currently have or plan to acquire for the project. After the workshops, usually 1-2 days will need to be allocated to review and potentially revise critical sections of the application, particularly the description of R&D activities, from your perspective.
The final approval of the application before submission will typically take another 1-2 days. Throughout this process, we strive to streamline our collaboration and optimise your time, ensuring that your application is comprehensive and aligns with the funding requirements.
To prepare your application, we will require specific information and documentation from you. During a series of workshops, we will ask you targeted questions to gather detailed information about your project. This process enables us to create a comprehensive project description, which describes the project’s objectives, scope, and expected outcomes, ensuring they align with the grant program’s goals. We will also discuss your projected project expenses, your financial contributions, and any other funding sources you have or plan to secure. We will develop a well-structured project timeline that includes key milestones and deliverables, demonstrating the feasibility of your project. Information about your project team, including their qualifications and roles, is essential, as are details about any collaborators or partners involved. Furthermore, you will be involved in developing a risk assessment plan and conducting an analysis of your project’s impact on society, the economy, and the environment.
To support your application, we require a variety of documents that demonstrate your company’s eligibility and compliance with the grant program’s requirements. This may include letters of support, letters of intent from partners, along with any legal documents mandated by the grant program. Additionally, including flyers or other promotional materials can effectively communicate the essence and objectives of your project. A well-crafted business plan can help us outline your strategy, market analysis, and financial projections, demonstrating a clear vision for the effective utilisation of funds. Financial statements illustrate your company’s financial health, assuring the funding agency of your fiscal responsibility. Details about past projects and initiatives will highlight your organisation’s track record and competence. Descriptions of your products, services, and experience will provide important context for your project.
Additionally, presenting financial projections for the next 3-5 years is vital to depict your project’s long-term sustainability and growth potential.
Familiarity with the specific grant program’s guidelines, deadlines, and requirements is vital for a successful application. EXEQ will gather and organise this information to ensure your grant application is comprehensive, well-structured, and aligns with the grant’s specific goals and requirements.
Whether you can submit the same application to two different sources at the same time depends on the specific rules and regulations of each funding agency or authority. Typically, it is essential to thoroughly review the guidelines and eligibility criteria of both sources before proceeding. Most funding entities have strict exclusivity clauses that prohibit submitting identical applications to multiple sources simultaneously.
EXEQ can assist in navigating this aspect of the proposal submission process. We recommend conducting a comprehensive examination of the terms and conditions of each funding source to determine whether concurrent submissions are permissible. Additionally, tailoring your application to meet the unique requirements of each source can significantly enhance your chances of securing funding.
You should allocate approximately 1 to 2 days to review the complete application thoroughly. This timeframe allows you to carefully assess each section, provide feedback, and make necessary revisions. Additionally, we will share individual sections with you during the writing process as they become ready for review. This incremental approach facilitates ongoing feedback and refinement, ensuring that each part of the final application is comprehensive, coherent, and well-aligned with the specific requirements and objectives of the funding agency.
The application evaluation process varies depending on the specific funding opportunity and the guidelines set by each funding body .Each funding call has its own unique goals and criteria that shape how applications are assessed. At EXEQ, we assist you in navigating this process by thoroughly reviewing the guidelines provided by the funding agency to ensure your application aligns with their requirements. is equipped to assist in understanding the evaluation process by thoroughly reviewing the guidelines provided by the funding body. The duration of the evaluation process typically ranges from several weeks to a few months. This timeframe can be influenced by factors such as the complexity of your proposal, the number of applications submitted, and the intricacy of the evaluation criteria. Our experienced team works diligently to ensure that your application meets all evaluation criteria, thereby maximising your chances of success within the given timeline.
Yes, EXEQ provides comprehensive project management support once your project is funded. Our services include meticulous project reporting and financial accountability to make sure our project stays on track. We oversee project schedules, develop and monitor key performance indicators, cost monitoring, and manage procurement processes in line with competitive principles. Additionally, we maintain a competitive supplier database, and ensure effective bilingual communication to accurately estimate market conditions EXEQ handles payment requests, diligently tracks project progress, presenting expenditure reports and actively participates in progress review meetings., We also closely monitor budget advances, keeping you well-informed s about any advancements and refunds in accordance with regulations. Furthermore, we offer tailored project management or can act as your project secretary overseeing and coordinating various aspects of the project. This comprehensive support ensures that your project adheres to regulatory requirements, and achieves its intended goals efficiently and effectively.
Exeq specializes in facilitating access to national grants, particularly in Poland, and Germany. If you are interested in exploring funding instruments in additional countries, please contact us to discuss how we can assist you in identifying opportunities beyond these regions.
Exeq helps businesses and research institutions secure national R&D grants, unlocking funding for groundbreaking projects. In Poland, we specialize in leading programs such as SMART FENG (Ścieżka SMART), Strategic R&D Programs (NUTRITECH, HYDROSTRATEG, PERUN, and more), and Medical Research Agency (ABM) grants, supporting innovation across various industries. In Germany, we assist companies in obtaining funding through ZIM (Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand), a key program for SMEs driving technological advancements. Our expertise ensures seamless navigation of the application process, maximizing your chances of securing financial support. Let us guide you in leveraging national funding opportunities to accelerate your research, development, and market success.
SMART PATH FENG (ŚCIEŻKA SMART)
Major funding initiative designed to empower businesses to undertake comprehensive R&D projects including a wide array of modules.
Tailored for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprises, with distinct calls. Additional calls are designated for consortia, which must be led by enterprises and can include other businesses, research organizations, or non-governmental organizations.
Modular Approach: The SMART Path offers a modular approach, enabling entrepreneurs to design projects aligned with strategic goals. Funding can be secured for research and development, innovation, infrastructure, digital or green transformation, internalization, and enhancing workforce competency.
Innovation Emphasis: The program specifically seeks projects with a high degree of advancement and innovation.
The funding may cover up to 80% of the project’s qualifying costs. The specific limits are determined by factors such as the type of project, the size of the enterprise, and the form of public aid provided.
A call for consortia will run until March 28, 2025. Applications for SMEs are anticipated to commence in mid-2025. Feel free to reach out to us for more details.
STRATEGIC R&D PROGRAMS IN POLAND
NCBR offers strategic programs (e.g. HYDROSTRATEG, PERUN, NUTRITECH) with high-budget funding. These programs aim at solving specific technical, scientific or social problems.
Depending on the specific program, applications can be submitted by consortia consisting of research institutions, businesses, or other entities. Individual applicants may also be eligible.
Strategic Focus: The programs cover a focused approach on addressing significant challenges and opportunities within specific thematic areas addressing challenges for the social and economic development of Poland.
Thematic Focus: The strategic R&D programs prioritize a thematic approach, concentrating on distinct technological domains. Separate calls are announced to ensure targeted initiatives within specific thematic areas.
Funding for strategic R&D programs varies according to the specific theme, with individually determined minimum and maximum costs and subsidy rate for each. Reach out to us directly for precise details.
Strategic R&D programs regularly open calls for proposals.
ZIM
Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand is a German funding program by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action was designed to enhance the innovative capabilities of SMEs.
The ZIM/IraSME program is tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developing projects with clear R&D goal and plan at TRL 2 to 4. Universities and Medium Enterprises in associations with SMEs are also encouraged to participate.
Innovation focus across diverse areas: Projects can span various technology sectors, provided they serve a civilian purpose and contribute to the development of a new product, process, or service that addresses a clear market need.
International collaboration: The Consortium must include at least two partners (independent legal entities) established in at least two different countries.
In Germany, eligible costs per company can reach up to 450 thousand EUR, with the subsidy rate ranging from 25% to 60%, depending on the size of the company. The maximum rates for participants from other countries are determined by their respective national and regional programs
Announced regularly.
Exeq offers years of experience in obtaining international grants. Explore with us the possibilities of getting your innovation funded by programs at the European level.
We specialize in securing funding for innovative projects through prestigious European and global R&D programs. Our expertise covers a wide range of grant opportunities, including EIC (European Innovation Council), ERC (European Research Council), Horizon Europe, Eureka, and other international funding schemes. We guide you through the complexities of grant applications, from strategic proposal writing to compliance and project execution. Whether you’re a startup, SME, or large corporation, we help you unlock financial support to accelerate your innovation.
The EUROSTARS program, part of the EUREKA initiative, is a funding instrument that encourages international collaboration in cutting-edge R&D projects.
Ideal for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and research-performing organizations with projects typically at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 or higher.
Innovation Focus: EUROSTARS is tailored for enterprises engaging in cutting-edge R&D activities, promoting advancements in various industries.
International Collaboration: The program encourages cross-border collaboration between companies from different countries, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise.
Competitive Selection: Projects are selected based on their innovation potential, technical merit, and economic and social impact.
Funding rules vary across countries and are set by respective national funding bodies. For Polish applicants, they are contingent on the research type/company size, potentially covering up to 80% of the project’s costs.
The program typically announces regular calls for proposals, providing two opportunities throughout the year to submit your project for consideration. The upcoming call for 2025 starts on January 10th and closes on March 13th.
The European Defence Fund, EDF is the European Commission’s instrument to support Research and Development in cutting-edge and interoperable defence technologies and equipment.
Consortia consisting of companies (all sizes) from at least three Member States and Norway. Calls for disruptive technologies allow smaller consortia (at least two entities). Participants should not be controlled by a non-associated third country.
Projects should aim at contributing to the security and defence interests of the Union and answer demand driven by Member States. Both research and development actions are funded. Detailed programmes are announced annually and are structured along 32 thematic categories. Project length 12 – 48 months.
Recipients and subcontractors must be EU-based, with their executive management structure in the EU.
Additionally, the programme provides support to promote defence innovation and inclusiveness through the EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS).
Grants with 20% up to 100% of eligible costs can be awarded with additional bonuses (e.g. mid-cup and SEM bonus). Project budgets depend on the call topic.
Annual work programmes and calls for proposals.
EIC PATHFINDER
Pathfinder – an instrument of European Innovation Council is designed to support early-stage development of high-risk, high-reward technologies with the potential for scientific breakthroughs.
Consortia of the minimum 3 academic or industrial partners (including SMEs) from a minimum of 3 distinct countries (members of the European Union).
Early-stage interdisciplinary projects: EIC Pathfinder is dedicated to supporting interdisciplinary projects in the early stages of development (TRL 1-4) up to the proof of principle.
High-risk, high-gain: The program aims to transform scientific advancements into technological breakthroughs. As such, the risk of research uncertainty should be counterbalanced by substantial technological and scientific potential.
Collaboration: EIC Pathfinder supports the set up of consortia including a minimum of 3 partners from academia or industry.
EIC Pathfinder Open grants are awarded up to 3 million EUR, while EIC Pathfinder Challenges grants may receive up to 4 million EUR. The funding rate equals 100% of the eligible costs.
Two yearly calls: EIC Pathfinder Open (May cut-off) and EIC Pathfinder Challenges (October cut-off).
Discover a spectrum of opportunities with Exeq, where we help secure funding to scale your business. With extensive experience navigating international grant programs, we can guide you to bring your innovation to the next level.
Exeq supports innovators in scaling up their breakthrough technologies through top European funding programs. We help startups and SMEs secure growth-focused grants such as EIC Accelerator for deep-tech ventures, LIFE for sustainability and environmental projects, and EUREKA Innowide for international market expansion. Our expertise ensures a smooth application process, from strategic proposal writing to compliance and project execution. Partner with us to unlock funding that accelerates your innovation and global impact.
EIC ACCELERATOR
The EIC Accelerator program under Horizon Europe provides support to companies in bringing their innovations to the market and achieving scale-up.
Designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups. Individuals planning to establish an SME and small mid-caps are eligible to apply solely for equity. The program is intended for projects at TRL 6 or above.
High-risk, high-gain projects: EIC Accelerator offers funding for projects developing innovative and groundbreaking products, services and business models that could create new markets or disrupt existing ones. The program supports high-risk projects having difficulties in obtaining funding from other sources.
Scale-up: The program is oriented towards facilitating the scale-up of innovative enterprises.
Comprehensive Focus: The EIC Accelerator addresses various innovation domains, offering support for disruptive projects in areas such as Health, Energy, and Digital Technologies. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications through either open or challenge-driven calls.
The program provides different funding options (Blended Finance, Grant Only, or Grant First), primarily depending on the type of activities (TRL) planned in the project. It offers grants of up to 2.5 million EUR and equity investments of up to 15 million EUR.
EIC Accelerator announces periodic calls for proposals. The 1st cut-off for 2025 will be closed on March 12th. The application process involves a multi-stage evaluation (short proposals assessed continuously, full proposals with 3-4 cut-offs per year and face-to-face interviews). Stay tuned to get informed about the upcoming deadlines.
LIFE
The LIFE program is a flagship European Commission initiative promoting sustainability and environmental innovation.
LIFE invites applications from private enterprises, NGOs, and public bodies. Projects involving international collaboration, especially those that address environmental issues across multiple countries are particularly welcomed.
Environmental focus: The LIFE program supports projects developing technologies and processes for positive environmental outcomes.
A holistic approach to Environment and Climate Action: 4 sub-programmes dedicated to Nature and Biodiversity, Circular Economy and Quality of Life, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, and Clean Energy Transition.
Successful applicants can secure significant funding (60-95% funding rate), with a total budget of 5.4 billion EUR allocated for projects in the 2021-2027 perspective.
LIFE announces regular calls for proposals, usually once a year. Depending on the specific call, the application process may involve either one or two stages, opening in April/May. Follow our updates to stay informed about the upcoming cut-offs.
INNOVATION FUND
The Innovation Fund (managed by the European Commision) supports a broad range of applications aimed at demonstrating innovative low-carbon technologies contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Both a single legal entity and a consortium of legal entities are eligible for funding.
Innovation Drive: The fund is dedicated to supporting projects that implement renewable energy generation, energy storage, construction and operation of carbon capture and storage, among others.
Sustainable solutions: Prioritizes projects contributing to environmental sustainability, climate action, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Competitive selection: Projects are selected based on multiple criteria, including the effectiveness of greenhouse gas emissions avoidance, project maturity, scalability and cost efficiency.
Funding possibilities are available for both small- and large-scale projects (with a budget exceeding 7.5 million EUR), with a funding rate of 60%.
Separate once-a-year calls are held for small- and large-scale projects.
EUREKA INNOWIDE
The Innowide EUREKA program is designed to boost innovative SMEs’ international collaboration and elevate their innovative solutions’ global presence.
Innowwide welcomes applications from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) intending to expand their innovative solutions globally.
International collaboration: The program encourages SMEs to form partnerships and collaborate internationally.
Market feasibility: Innowwide projects aim to conduct preliminary technical, market, legal, and/or socioeconomic assessments to confirm the viability of a given innovative global business solution.
Innovative SMEs can apply for a grant of EUR 60k to facilitate their international collaboration and market entry.
Innowwide conducts regular calls for proposals, opening the submission period in July and closing in October. Follow our updates on the next Innowwide cut-offs.
