Eurostars Funding for SMEs: Fit, Consortium Rules and Application Logic

Eurostars funding supports international R&D projects led by innovative SMEs. It is often a strong route when a company needs cross-border development partners and has a clear commercialisation path.

Quick answer: Eurostars can fit if an innovative SME leads the consortium, at least two independent entities from at least two Eurostars countries participate, and the project focuses on civil R&D with commercial potential. Source: Eurostars.

Core eligibility rules

The official Eurostars page states that projects must meet several criteria, including:

• The consortium is led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country

• At least two independent entities participate

• Participants come from at least two Eurostars countries

• SME budgets from Eurostars countries represent at least 50 percent of total project cost, excluding subcontracting

• No participant or country controls more than 70 percent of the project budget

• Project duration is 36 months or less

• The project is focused on civil applications

When Eurostars fits

Eurostars may fit when:

• The SME has a clear R&D project

• International partners add real value

• The project has commercialisation potential

• The budget can be split fairly

• National funding rules work for each partner

Main risk

Eurostars is decentralised. Funding comes through national funding bodies, so each partner must check national rules. A consortium can be eligible at programme level but still run into national funding issues.

What to do next

Start with Cogrant: check Eurostars fit before building a consortium or drafting the proposal.

FAQ

Is Eurostars only for SMEs?

The project must be led by an innovative SME, but partners can include other organisation types.

Does Eurostars require international partners?

Yes. The consortium must include entities from at least two Eurostars countries. Source: Eurostars.

Is Eurostars good for startups?

It can be, if the startup can lead an R&D project and manage partners.

Who pays the grant?

Funding is provided through national funding bodies according to national rules.