𝗘𝗜𝗖 | 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 for R&D/pilot funding

The EIC Pathfinder Challenges are part of the European Innovation Council’s deep-tech R&D funding under Horizon Europe. Unlike the open Pathfinder stream, this predefined-challenge format targets breakthrough scientific research within specific thematic areas.

• Total budget for 2025 Challenges: €120 million, with grants of up to €4 million per project.

• Focus Areas include several high-impact Challenges (each with its own guide):

  • Climate-resilient biotech (e.g., crops & plant-based biomanufacturing)

  • Generative AI agents for cancer diagnosis & treatment support

  • Autonomous robot collectives for construction environments

  • Waste-to-value technologies converting waste into fuels, chemicals, and materials.

• Timeline: Applications open now, with a deadline of 29 October 2025.

• Support beyond cash: Awardees also gain access to business acceleration services—mentoring, coaching, investor access, and networking.

For more information & application, click here.