EIC STEP Scale Up (via ISERD) — Horizon Europe

EIC STEP Scale Up via ISERD is the European Union's equity route for ambitious scale-ups in digital and deep tech, cleantech, and biotech. It targets SMEs and small mid-caps with breakthrough technology and a financing need that is too large for ordinary venture rounds. The equity ticket runs from €10 million to €30 million and typically covers 20% to 33% of a round worth €50 million to €150 million. Applicants need pre-commitment from a qualified investor for at least 20% of the round, and the 2026 cutoffs are 11 February, 6 May, 9 September, and 25 November. The process is staged, with an initial submission built around a full business plan, pitch deck, financial plan, CVs, and an FTO note. The best submissions already look like a serious late-stage financing round rather than a speculative idea deck. If the company clears stage one, it moves to a jury interview, and the route is strongest for teams that can show scale, financing readiness, and a technology position that justifies a large equity ticket.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.