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Proof-of-Concept Co-Financing Instrument

Proof-of-Concept Co-Financing — Cutoff 1 31)

Funds proof-of-concept and pilot projects for agrifood startups collaborating with corporate partners.

Between cyclesEIT FoodEU

The EIT Food Proof-of-Concept Co-Financing Instrument is a cash sub-grant programme that de-risks early-stage startup-corporate collaborations in the agrifood sector by co-financing small-scale pilot projects and proofs-of-concept. The instrument operates on a twice-annual submission calendar; the first cutoff for 2026 is July 31. Eligible activities include sample creation, field trials, function

Proof-of-concept and small-scale pilot projects in the agrifood sector, co-developed with a corporate client, with a total project cost below €60,000.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.eitfood.eu