The event titled “EIC Accelerator Programme for Deep-Tech Innovators: Preparing Competitive Applications for Europe’s Flagship Deep-Tech Programme” was held on 12 June 2026 at the Istanbul Development Agency (ISTKA), within the scope of the “Technical Assistance for Türkiye in Horizon Europe Project” coordinated by TÜBİTAK.
Organised as a one-day physical information and training event, the programme brought together deep-tech companies planning to apply to the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator Programme, high-growth-potential innovators, and relevant actors from the innovation ecosystem.
Türkiye’s position in the EU innovation ecosystem was addressed during the opening session
The event began with opening remarks by Serkan Korkmaz Arslan, Acting Coordinator of the Entrepreneurship and Investment Support Office at ISTKA, and Tarık Şahin, TÜBİTAK EIC/EIE/EIT National Contact Point. During the opening session, assessments were shared on strengthening the position of Türkiye-based start-ups and SMEs within the European innovation ecosystem. In his presentation, Şahin also informed participants about Horizon Europe, the EIC, and alternative funding instruments.
Comprehensive presentations from experts on application strategy and sectoral priorities
In the following sessions, Senior Project Experts shared insights with participants on the EIC Accelerator Programme’s breakthrough innovation criteria, the expected technology maturity level within the TRL 6-9 range, and how to build a strong go-to-market and scale-up strategy. The presentation also addressed the recently introduced STEP Scale Up mechanism and the strategic thematic areas highlighted under this framework.
In the afternoon session, the scope, eligibility conditions, and application process of the EIC Short Proposal Development Support provided under the Technical Assistance for Türkiye in Horizon Europe Project were explained in detail. Participants were also informed about examples of successful and unsuccessful project applications.
Expert support for application preparation: Short Proposal Development Support for 100 Turkish Deep-Tech Companies
EIC Accelerator is providing EIC Accelerator Short Proposal Development Support for Turkish companies developing deep-tech innovations that meet the eligibility criteria of the programme, enabling them to prepare competitive applications. This support is provided within the scope of the “Technical Assistance for Türkiye in Horizon Europe Project”, coordinated by TÜBİTAK, and focuses on the preparation of the short proposal, which is the first stage of the EIC Accelerator application process. Under this support, applicants receive guidance from experienced experts in the preparation of the full application file, pitch deck, and three-minute pitch video. In addition, the prepared short proposals are reviewed by experts, and tailored feedback is provided to increase their chances of success. Those wishing to apply for the support are required to complete the online application form. Eligible candidates are matched with experts, and the support process is then initiated.
The event continued with one-to-one mentoring meetings
In the final part of the programme, pre-scheduled 15-minute one-to-one meetings were held between participating company representatives and experts. During these meetings, companies’ project ideas, application preparations, and the support mechanisms available to them were discussed.