Introduction to Eurostars Funding Programme

Eurostars is a joint funding programme that supports Research and Development (R&D) performing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The programme is co-funded by 36 Eurostars countries and the European Union through Horizon 2020. The goal of the Eurostars programme is to support international R&D projects that will result in innovative products, processes, and services that can be commercialised rapidly.

Goal of Eurostars Funding

The main objective of Eurostars funding is to meet the specific needs of SMEs by stimulating international collaborative research and innovation projects. The programme has a bottom-up approach that encourages SMEs to work on market-driven R&D projects, collaborate with like-minded partners, and grow their organizations.

How Eurostars Funding Works

Eurostars is part of the European Partnership for Innovative Small and Medium Enterprises. The funding is aimed at small and medium-sized companies that are part of an international project. Companies can apply for funding to develop market-oriented products, processes, and services through international cooperation and European partnership. The programme provides access to new knowledge, collaborations, and opportunities to test new markets.

Funding Amount and Maximum Duration of Project

The funding level for Eurostars varies by country. SMEs can apply for funding for 50% of their costs, large companies can apply for funding for 30% of their costs, and universities and research institutes can apply for funding for 70% of their costs. The projects must be completed within 36 months after the project start date, and market introduction must be planned within 24 months of the project’s completion.

Eligibility Criteria for Eurostars Funding

To be eligible for Eurostars funding, the project must be a collaboration between at least two Eurostars countries and lead to the market introduction of a product, service, or process no later than two years after the end of the project. The project partners can be SMEs, universities, and research centres from any of the 36 participating countries, and at least 50% of the total project budget must come from the SME.

The Evaluation and Allocation Process

All applications for Eurostars funding are evaluated in a centralised process managed by the Eureka Secretariat. The evaluation process from submission to the finalisation of the funding contract takes 4 to 7 months.

Eurostars and Innovation Manager

If you are interested in Eurostars funding, the Eurostars and Innovation Manager can help you write a winning proposal. Get in touch with them to find out more.

Read our Eurostars reference cases.