Eurostars: A Deep Dive into Eligibility and Application

What is Eurostars?

Eurostars is a European funding programme designed to support innovative SMEs in conducting international R&D projects. By collaborating with partners across 37 participating countries, SMEs can access public funding to develop new products, processes, or services for commercialization.

Key Benefits

• Access to Funding: Substantial grants managed by national funding bodies.
• International Collaboration: Opportunities to partner with SMEs, universities, and research centers.
• Market Expansion: Participants often see increased turnover and entry into new markets.
• Long-Term Partnerships: 84% of project partners form enduring relationships.

Eurostars offers more than just funding. It provides credibility, visibility, and access to an extensive international network of innovation-driven organisations. Being part of a Eurostars project enhances your reputation, opens doors to new partnerships, and can accelerate your entry into new markets. It’s a strategic investment in your growth, not just a financial one.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for Eurostars, your project must meet the following criteria:

1. Consortium Composition: Led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country, with at least one other independent entity from a different Eurostars country.
2. Budget Distribution: SMEs from Eurostars countries must account for at least 50% of the project budget (excluding subcontracting).
3. Project Duration: Maximum of 36 months.
4. Civilian Focus: Projects must have an exclusive focus on civil applications.
5. Budget Cap: No single participant or country should be responsible for more than 70% of the project budget.

Note: Innovative SMEs are defined as those with the ambition to collaborate on R&D and innovation with international partners, regardless of a proven track record in R&D activities.

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