SERVICES
EU Deep-Tech Initiative for Women Entrepreneurs
The European Union regularly offers targeted funding and comprehensive support services to empower women founders who lead innovative early-stage deep-tech SMEs. This recurring EU initiative provides selected enterprises with up to €75,000 non-dilutive funding and a six-month tailored programme, comprising expert mentoring, investor networking, business development, and market readiness training.
Recognizing the significance of this recurring funding opportunity, ICPE is proactively preparing SMEs from member states for the next call cycle, anticipated in early 2026.
Key Details of the Programme
- Funding Available €75,000 lump-sum (non-dilutive)
- Programme Duration 6 months
- Target Beneficiaries Early-stage, women-led deep-tech SMEs
- Next Call (Projected) Q1 2026 (call for 2025 has concluded in March)
- Thematic Priorities Green, digital, and socially impactful innovations
- Geographical Scope EU and Horizon Europe Associated Countries
Eligibility Criteria at a Glance
Eligible SMEs must meet all the following criteria:
Legal Registration:
Incorporated in an EU member state or Horizon Europe associated country.
Registered between 6 months to 8 years at the time of application.
Business Stage:
Qualify as SME according to EU standards (EU Recommendation 2003/361).
Less than €1M in equity raised.
Product or solution between Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3–6.
Leadership Requirements:
At least one woman founder/co-founder holding a top executive position (CEO, CTO, CSO).
Female leadership must own a minimum of 25% of company shares.
Application must be submitted directly by the eligible female executive.
Sector Alignment:
Operating in genuine deep-tech sectors such as AI (TRL ≥4), biotechnology, advanced materials, clean technologies, aerospace, quantum computing, etc.
Programme Benefits Beyond Funding
Participants receive intensive personalized support, including:
- Individual mentoring from accomplished women entrepreneurs
- Investor connections and professional pitch preparation
- Market entry strategy and sales skill enhancement
- Leadership, communication, and soft skills training
- Environmental sustainability assessments (Life Cycle Assessment)
- Investor-readiness and export capability reviews
- Access to leading European industrial and corporate networks
Participants initially select three priority services, with flexible access to additional support as needed.
Evaluation and Award Process
Scoring Criteria
Impact: Quality of the business strategy, potential societal/environmental contributions.
Excellence: Innovativeness, technological uniqueness, intellectual property management.
Implementation: Team strength, female leadership prominence, feasibility of proposed activities.
Scoring Requirements
Each category scored from 0–5.
Minimum threshold: 3 per category, 10 total.
Grant Payment Schedule:
- Initial installment (€37,500) upon programme entry and KPI agreement.
- Mid-programme installment (€30,000) contingent on 40% KPI fulfillment.
- Final payment (€7,500) upon full KPI achievement.
ICPE’s Preparatory Support Services
ICPE offers tailored assistance, helping SMEs maximize their competitiveness through:
- Eligibility assessments and strategic alignment advice
- Expert review of business plans, pitch decks, and application forms
- Technical advisory on deep-tech validation (TRL assessment and IP strategies)
- Compliance guidance including ethical considerations and GDPR requirements
- Preparation of mandatory documentation
Next Steps for SMEs Interested in Applying
- Initial Self-Assessment: Verify basic eligibility (ICPE guidance available).
- Resource Compilation: Gather essential documents including pitch materials, financial records, SME declaration, etc.
- Application Finalization: Utilize ICPE’s expert feedback and submit applications promptly upon the call’s reopening.
To express your interest in the Grant Opportunity, please complete the form below.
For any questions or clarifications, feel free to contact us at programmes@icpe.int.