First national program recognized by the European Commission that strengthens links with European funding programs

ANI has launched “SIID – I&D EMPRESARIAL – Demonstrator Projects (Individual or Co-promotion)”, the first national program certified by the European Commission under the EIC Plug In support mechanism. This certification represents a milestone in the link between national and European funding programs, allowing innovative companies direct access to the second phase (Full proposal) of the EIC Accelerator.

EIC Plug In, developed by the European Commission, was created to support deeptech companies with results from nationally-funded projects that show strong potential for reaching international markets. With this new framework, startups, SMEs and small mid-caps that have participated in projects supported by SIID – I&D EMPRESARIAL will be able to benefit from easier access to one of the most competitive European funding programs for innovation and entrepreneurship. All projects completed within 22 months of the project’s closing date are considered eligible.

Access to the EIC Accelerator competition, with support of up to €12.5 million, will now be facilitated in Portugal by ANI, which is the official entity responsible for implementing EIC Plug In, reinforcing the national commitment to innovation and business competitiveness. This mechanism will allow a direct link between national funding and the European competition, ensuring that companies have a structured path to internationalization and scalability.

More information on accessing the mechanism is available here.