Advanced Innovation Challenges (AIC) is a specialized funding instrument operated by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under the European framework program Horizon Europe. It is designed to finance and accelerate the development of high-risk deep-tech innovations that carry immense transformative potential but struggle to secure private investment or commercial application in their early stages.

This tool helps promising solutions navigate the critical gap between laboratory research and market application, often referred to as the innovation valley of death. Rather than focusing solely on basic research, its main objective is rapid testing, user validation, and the direct transition of breakthrough technologies into real-world use.

Purpose of the Program

AIC serves as a financial bridge targeting strategic and highly specific Challenges, such as advancements in physical artificial intelligence (robotics) or new biomedical methods designed to reduce animal testing.

Primary objectives include:

• Supporting high-risk deep-tech technologies with high potential for societal impact,
• Accelerating market entry, drawing inspiration from the American ARPA innovation model,
• Verifying and validating technological solutions directly with end users,
• Closing the gap between top-tier European research and its commercial application.

How the Scheme Operates

Funding under the AIC is structured into two strictly sequential phases. This structure facilitates the rapid phase-out of unviable concepts while providing focused support to technologies that demonstrate success.

• Phase 1 (Solution Verification): A short-term lump sum grant typically up to EUR 300,000 for a duration of 9 months. The objective is to test the initial concept, engage prospective users, and formulate a precise roadmap for further development.
• Phase 2 (Development and Deployment): A follow-up grant offering up to EUR 2.5 million over a period of 2.5 years. Only projects that successfully complete Phase 1 can apply for this grant. Funding covers real-world operational testing, obtaining certifications, and structured preparation for commercialization of research and development results.

Target Audience

The call targets innovators and organizations developing radical new solutions that require significant capital for real-world deployment.

• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups
• Research institutions, higher education entities, and universities (including newly formed spin-offs)
• Consortia involving industrial partners and end users (essential for transitioning to Phase 2)

The program is not meant for standard business capital or general operational expenses. Support is tied directly to scientifically and technologically advanced solutions responding to specific European challenges.