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EIC Pathfinder

EIC Pathfinder Open

Funds bottom-up research for breakthrough deep-tech, any field of science.

Between cyclesEuropean Innovation CouncilEUEU associated countries

EIC Pathfinder Open is the European Innovation Council's bottom-up early-stage research funding instrument, supporting collaborative research consortia working to develop the scientific and technological foundations for radical breakthrough innovations. It operates without predefined thematic priorities, accepting proposals from any field of science, technology, or application — from quantum infor…

Any field of science, technology or application without predefined thematic priorities. Aimed at radically new technologies via high-risk/high-gain science-towards-technology research.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
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.20 weeks
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.€166M

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: eic.ec.europa.eu