Since the European Innovation Council was launched in 2020, 111 investments have been approved in highly innovative start-ups and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) totalling more than €500 million to scale up breakthrough innovations in areas such as health, circular economy, and Internet of Things (IoT). 

For investments to be selected, they must pass an evaluation by external experts, a due diligence process overseen by the EIC Fund Investment Committee, and receive a positive final decision from the EIC Fund Board of Directors. The equity investments, ranging from €0.5 to €15 million per company, complement the grant financing of up to €2.5 million, which has already been provided through the EIC Accelerator.  

Through this new official entity, it is the first time the European Commission will make such direct equity investments in companies. Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth has said that “The EIC Fund has developed incredibly quickly and has established itself as a new force in EU technology investments. This unique form of financing – combining grants and equity – is proving itself highly attractive to Europe's most promising startups and providing them with the means to develop and scale their businesses in Europe.” 

For a deeper understanding, you can find some examples of investments such as: 

• Antofénol (France) – a company providing natural solution for post-harvest protection of fruit and vegetables; 

• Gleechi AB (Sweden) – transforming training with virtual reality; 

• Keyou GmBH (Germany) – developing a technology that allows hydrogen to be used in diesel engines; 

• Lixea (Estonia) – creating new technology to dissolve waste wood to get raw materials; 

• Ophiomix (Portugal) – a decision tool for liver transplantation based on molecular signature. 

You can find more information and opportunities for your investments here.