Pilot access schemes to Technology Infrastructures for European startups, scaleups and innovative SMEs (CSA)

Overview

Pilot access schemes to provide European startups, scaleups, and innovative SMEs with streamlined, transnational access to state-of-the-art technology infrastructures in priority areas such as advanced materials, clean energy, and health biotechnology.

Who Can Apply

Consortia involving technology infrastructure operators, networks (e.g., Open Innovation Test Beds), and organizations supporting industrial users, including SMEs, startups, and scaleups. Eligible applicants must be established in EU Member States or Horizon Europe-associated countries.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €12,500,000
• Funding is provided as a lump sum
• Total budget and funding rate not specified

What Is Funded

• Development and testing of pilot multi-site access schemes for technology infrastructure services
• Simplified, standardized access conditions for industrial users across the EU
• Activities to enhance visibility, promotion, and uptake of technology infrastructure services
• Transnational and multisite collaboration among technology infrastructures, including staff exchange and networking
• Support services to improve accessibility and usability of technology infrastructures for startups and scaleups

Technology / Maturity Requirements

No explicit Technology Readiness Level (TRL) range specified. Focus is on facilitating access to existing state-of-the-art technology infrastructures for industrial users.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-09-21
• Deadline: 2027-02-01

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must adhere to page limits and layout described in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Granting authority may object to transfers of ownership or exclusive licensing of results up to 4 years post-action
• Reporting and dissemination requirements as outlined in the Horizon Europe Model Grant Agreement

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States and Horizon Europe-associated countries
• Application language: English

Notes

• Proposals must build on existing initiatives with single access points to technology infrastructures
• Emphasis on broadening the user base of technology infrastructures, particularly for startups and scaleups
• Coordination with the envisaged European Charter of access for industrial users to research and technology infrastructures is required