Eureka is an intergovernmental network established to enhance international cooperation in research and development (R&D) across various sectors. For small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the United Kingdom, Eureka offers seven distinct programmes designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and market expansion. These programmes provide UK organisations with opportunities to engage in international R&D projects, access funding, and connect with global partners.
Eurostars is Eureka’s flagship programme aimed at supporting innovative SMEs engaged in R&D activities. The programme facilitates international collaboration by funding transnational projects led by R&D-performing SMEs. To be eligible, a consortium must include at least two independent entities from two different participating countries, with the project led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country. The project should focus on developing a product, process, or service intended for commercialisation within 36 months. UK participants can receive national funding through Innovate UK, and partners will receive funding through their respective national agencies. Other eligibility criteria can be found here.
Eureka Clusters are industry-driven, strategic initiatives that focus on developing technologies crucial for European competitiveness. These long-term programmes involve large companies, SMEs, universities, and research organisations collaborating on R&D projects. Clusters cover various sectors, including information and communication technologies (ICT), energy, and biotechnology. For UK entities, participating in Clusters offers access to a vast network of international partners and potential funding opportunities. The 5 on-going Clusters include CELTIC-NEXT (telecommunications), ITEA (software innovation), and EUROGIA (low-carbon energy technologies), SMART (Advanced manufacturing), and Xecs (Electronics Components and Systems and applications).
Network Projects provide a flexible framework for organisations to collaborate on international R&D initiatives across any technological area. There are no predefined themes, allowing participants to propose projects that align with their strategic interests. UK organisations can initiate or join consortia with partners from Eureka member countries to develop innovative products, processes, or services. Funding and support are accessible through Innovate UK, facilitating the growth and competitiveness of UK businesses in the global market.
Globalstars is a programme that extends Eureka’s collaborative framework beyond its member countries by launching calls for projects with specific non-Eureka countries. These targeted calls aim to foster international R&D cooperation and open new markets for participants. UK entities can engage in Globalstars calls to collaborate with partners in countries such as Brazil, India, Japan, and Singapore. This programme provides opportunities to access new technologies, expertise, and funding sources, enhancing the global reach of UK innovations.
Innowwide is designed to support innovative SMEs in assessing the viability of their research or commercial ambitions in international markets. The programme offers grants of €60,000 to conduct Viability Assessment Projects (VAPs), which help SMEs understand market needs, local conditions, and potential barriers in target countries. For UK SMEs, Innowwide provides a pathway to explore and prepare for successful market entry and collaboration in diverse global regions.
The Investment Readiness programme connects startups and SMEs with corporate venturing teams and investors. Participants can engage in international missions and corporate activities designed to enhance their investment appeal and facilitate growth. For UK entities, this programme offers opportunities to pitch to potential investors, receive mentorship, and gain insights into scaling businesses internationally. By participating, UK companies can improve their readiness to attract investment and expand their operations in global markets.
The Fast Track to the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator is a programme that allows innovative SMEs to skip the first step of the EIC Accelerator application process. Participants benefit from expert feedback on their project ideas and have the opportunity to practice live pitches. This streamlined approach accelerates access to substantial EU funding and support. For UK SMEs, participating in this programme can expedite the development and scaling of high-impact innovations, providing a competitive edge in the European market.
For more information on any of the above, or to discuss your project idea, contact RedKnight today.
