Proof of innovative concept 2025

This programme is designed to support early-stage research and innovation by providing pre-commercial funding for the technical and commercial validation of innovative concepts, while strengthening the research, development and innovation capacities and capabilities of the private sector and research institutions.

Total Call Budget

EUR 400,000

Key Objectives

• Providing evidence that a new process or technology is feasible and has potential for commercial application;
• Providing investors with confidence that the process is technically feasible and that the prototype functions;
• Reducing technical and commercial risks, identifying the most appropriate commercialisation strategy, and initiating intellectual property protection;
• Increasing the development and introduction of innovative products or processes resulting from applied research and development activities;
• Strengthening the innovation development capacities and capabilities of the private sector.

Grant Amount and Co-financing Rate

Minimum amount: EUR 20,000.00

Maximum amount: EUR 40,000.00

A) The maximum state aid intensity for the private sector is:

• Micro and small enterprises – 70%;
• Medium-sized enterprises – 60%.

B) The maximum state aid intensity for applicants meeting the definition of a “research and knowledge-dissemination organisation” is up to 90% of eligible project costs.

Eligible Costs

• Personnel costs (gross 2) for employees of the applicant and newly recruited employees;
• Costs of external research services;
• Costs of materials and small inventory required for project implementation;
• Costs of instruments and equipment;
• Business travel costs related to project implementation;
• Costs of market analysis, feasibility studies, commercialisation studies or plans, as well as intellectual property verification and protection;
• VAT on eligible costs for which the applicant is unable to claim a refund;
• Indirect costs.