In the framework of Horizon Europe (2021-2027), the European Innovation Ecosystems (EIE) programme is designed to build more connected, inclusive and effective innovation ecosystems across Europe.
What is EIE?
EIE complements key EU innovation instruments such as the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT), focusing not only on funding individual projects but on strengthening the innovation environment — connecting actors, organisations, investors, regional players and policies.
Key objectives
The programme aims to:
- Build interlinked innovation ecosystems across national, regional and local levels — especially including territories and actors that have been less represented.
- Accelerate sustainable business growth, especially for start-ups and SMEs, by improving connectivity and access to finance, markets and networks.
- Support innovative SMEs and their scaling up, particularly through the “INNOVSMES” destination which links to the European Partnership for Innovative SMEs.
Destinations / Focus areas
EIE is organised around major “destinations” or funding strands:
- CONNECT – Interconnected Innovation Ecosystems: focuses on linking and integrating innovation actors and regions.
- SCALEUP – Growth & Internationalisation of European Companies: builds on the scaling potential of companies in innovation ecosystems.
- INNOVSMES – Partnership on Innovative SMEs: supports innovative SMEs to expand, engage in cross-border R&D and embed in global value chains.
Why it matters for 2025 and beyond
With the fast-changing landscape of digitalisation, green transition, and global competitiveness, the EIE programme plays a strategic role in ensuring Europe’s innovation ecosystem is fit for future challenges. Through its calls and support services, EIE helps actors anticipate market demands, build partnerships and access resources.
How AvaTo Solutions can help
At AvaTo Solutions GmbH, we can support clients in navigating the EIE programme by:
- Assessing fit of your organisation or consortium for EIE calls;
- Identifying synergies with ecosystem-strengthening objectives (CONNECT, INNOVSMES, etc);
- Preparing high-quality applications with strategic partnership design and business case;
- Supporting project setup and alignment with EU ecosystem goals (regional inclusion, scalability, connectivity).
