SME I or SME instrument is a non-refundable grant that aims to cover the costs of evaluating the technical viability and commercialization potential of new ideas and technologies.
Type of funding
La The intensity of this funding is up to 70% of the eligible costs and the amount of this one is 50,000 euros of fixed grant per project in a single payment. In addition, it does not require any type of guarantee, but in order to benefit, the applicant company must be an SME or startup with a corporate form. As far as expenses are concerned, those related to the implementation of the project, such as personnel costs, travel, equipment, infrastructure, goods and services, may be bankable.
Project conditions
- The SME or startup in question can apply both alone and in a consortium.
- The project must have a maximum duration of 6 months.
Requirements to comply with the consortium
- There are no minimum consortium requirements, so SMEs can choose freely based on their needs.
- SMEs can be chosen for the consortium from any EU country plus those participating in the H2020 program.
- If the participation of a company other than an SME, such as a large company or a university, is necessary, it must participate as a subcontracted company. In addition, outsourcing costs cannot exceed 50% of the project budget.
The European Commission (EC)
The EC promotes innovation and business development in member countries through framework programs for the granting of aid in the form of a non-refundable grant. It focuses on financing industries with high potential and impact on European society to promote technological development. Phase I of the SME Instrument is followed by the Phase II, another grant that can reach up to 2.5 million euros for projects of between 1 and 3 years, which is intended to finance intensive R&D developments and the commercialization of new products.Las thematic areas that most interest Europe are classified in Nanotechnology, ICT, Aerospace, Ehealth and Health, Energy Efficiency, Environment and Resource Efficiency, Security and Agrifood. More: Phase II SME Instrument
