EIC Pathfinder – secure subsidy for breakthrough technologies
The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a key EU tool for supporting disruptive innovations and breakthrough technologies. It aims to help transform bold scientific ideas into reality, from basic research to commercial deployment.
One option that will be available in 2026, is the EIC Pathfinder, which will support the early-stage development of future technologies (e.g. various activities at low TRL levels 1–4), up the proof-of-concept stage. This option is ideal for those looking to embark on an innovative journey by conducting visionary research that could transform not only the EU market, but also the economy and society.
Support for impactful, visionary research
The EIC Pathfinder programme supports high-risk, high-gain research aimed at developing the scientific basis for breakthrough technologies and cutting-edge innovations in Europe. The programme supports the earliest stages of scientific, technological or deep-tech research and development at a low technology readiness level (TRL 1–4) with the aim of verifying the basic principles of new technologies.
EIC Pathfinder comprises two instruments:
- EIC Pathfinder Open – opened to support projects without predefined thematic priorities in any field of science; most important is a radically new idea
- EIC Pathfinder Challenges – focused on projects in predefined thematic areas with specific objectives, such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, the circular economy, new materials etc.
Who can apply for grant funding?
- EIC Pathfinder Open – consortia of at least 3 different independent legal entities established in different countries (at least one of the entities must be an EU Member State)
- EIC Pathfinder Challenges – consortia of at least 2 legal or, in exceptional cases, single applicants (e.g. research organizations or start-ups)
Applicants may include universities, research organizations, small and medium-sized enterprises, start-ups, or other innovation actors.
What can the grant be used to finance?
The grant is intended to fund scientific and research activities aimed at verifying the feasibility of disruptive new technologies (‘proof of concept’), including the development of new methods, approaches and prototypes.
How much funding can you get?
- Grants of up to EUR 4 million for both, Pathfinder Open and Pathfinder Challenge.
- The support rate is 100 % of eligible costs.
- Successful beneficiaries will also gain access to a range of tailor-made Business Acceleration Services (BAS)
Thematic areas for 2026
Which thematic areas will be supported in 2026?
1. Advanced Materials for Miniaturised Energy Harvesting Systems
Development of a new generation of energetically autonomous systems that will enable innovative services to improve the quality of life for European citizens by supporting sustainability in both energy consumption and production.
2. Biotechnology for Healthy Ageing
Development of biotechnology-based (therapeutic biotechnology, biomarker-based tools, new methodological approaches) or pharmaceutical interventions that prevent, delay, or reverse age-related diseases.
3. DeepRAP: Deep Reasoning, Abstraction & Planning towards trustworthy Cognitive AI Systems
Aims on significant enhancement of AI capabilities in reasoning, abstraction and planning towards trustworthy cognitive AI to strengthen the EU’s competitiveness and technological sovereignty. Projects can focus on one or more cognitive functions.
Inspiration from previous years
EIC Pathfinder has already supported many visionary projects from across Europe. Below, we list some of these projects to inspire your own groundbreaking research and development activities:
SpinAge
Development of spintronic neural chips inspired by the human brain with the goal of creating new low-energy architectures for machine learning and AI.
ELENA
Biotechnological tools to increase crop resistance to climate stress. A combination of genetics, biology, and artificial intelligence.
NEUReka
Development of bioelectronic systems that enable new ways of communicating with the brain and treating neurological diseases.
PhoQuS
A project in the field of quantum materials focused on the development of a new generation of quantum sensors and computer components.
PRIMOE
Use of magnetotactic bacteria for targeted drug delivery in cancer treatment.
These projects, supported in EIC Pathfinder, aim to push the boundaries of current state of the art and technological possibilities. They present new approaches with no previous application, but with the potential to significantly change the market.
Do you have a groundbreaking research idea? Let us help you find your way to Pathfinder 2026.
If your team has an idea that could lead to disruptive innovation or a technological breakthrough, the EIC Pathfinder programme could be perfect for you. The conditions are very demanding and the competition is fierce, but MIDA can help you unlock this funding opportunity.
Contact us to discuss your ideas and receive assistance in preparing your application for the best chance of success.
