
The EIC Pre-Accelerator Widening call has been launched by the European Commission to enhance the investment and scale-up potential of deep-tech startups in Widening countries.
The application deadline is November 18, 2025.
The call specifically targets early-stage startups that have validated technologies in a laboratory setting (at least TRL 4 level), and that are innovative with high impact potential. Under this program, successful applicants will be awarded a grant between EUR 300,000 and EUR 500,000, covering up to 70% of eligible costs through EU funding. The remaining 30% must be co-financed by the applicants themselves.
The objective of the EIC Pre-Accelerator Widening call is to support deep-tech startups in Widening countries — including Türkiye — in reaching a more advanced level both in terms of technology and investment readiness, thereby facilitating their access to EIC Accelerator funding as well as national, regional, or private investment sources.
Under the call, activities such as market analysis, business plan development, intellectual property protection, regulatory and certification processes can be carried out to prepare technologies and business models for commercialization. In addition, successful applicants and projects awarded the Seal of Excellence will gain free access to EIC Business Acceleration Services and benefit from EIC Accelerator Fast Track opportunities.
Projects are expected to receive EU funding of up to 70%, with a budget of EUR 300,000 to EUR 500,000 over a period of 2 years. The call is expected to support a total of 50 projects, and each project must be submitted by a single SME.
SMEs wishing to apply may benefit from the Coordinator Support Program. As work on this support program is still ongoing, we are not currently accepting applications. However, we advise stakeholders who wish to apply for support to start preparing their applications based on the evaluation criteria available in the 2025 WIDERA Work Programme.
For more information about the call, you can visit the Horizon Europe website or the European Commission’s call page, or send your inquiries to ncpwidera@tubitak.gov.tr or ncpeic@tubitak.gov.tr.