Innovation and R&D activities are fields that have enjoyed continuous support from European Funds for many years. In the new programming period for 2021-2027, this will not change – innovation remains a priority.
Find out which innovative projects can receive EU grants and loans, and take advantage of new development opportunities.
Grants for research and development are intended for a wide range of recipients, including:
- Enterprises – including small, medium, and large companies that invest in innovation, new technologies, and the development of new products and services.
- Research Institutes and Universities – units conducting scientific research that need support for the development of R&D projects and the implementation of new technologies.
- Start-ups – new businesses with innovative ideas that require financial support at the initial stage of development and implementation of R&D projects.
- Scientific and Industrial Consortia – groups consisting of various entities such as companies, research institutions, and universities that collaborate on the implementation of joint R&D projects.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Foundations – units that carry out R&D projects within their statutory activities, often in social, ecological, or health-related areas.
- Public Administration Units – offices and public institutions that conduct or support R&D projects aimed at regional development, infrastructure improvement, and the introduction of innovative solutions in the public sector.
Support for research and development can cover a variety of areas, including:
- Basic Research – funding for studies aimed at developing new theories, concepts, and knowledge that do not have direct practical applications but form the basis for further applied research.
- Applied Research – support for studies aimed at using existing knowledge to develop new technologies, processes, products, or services.
- Technology and Innovation Development – funding for work on creating and testing new technologies, including prototype creation, laboratory tests, and pilot projects.
- Commercialization of Research Results – assistance in the process of bringing new products, technologies, or services based on scientific research results to the market.
- Research Infrastructure – support for purchasing equipment, building laboratories, and research centers necessary for conducting research and development.
- Training and Competency Development – funding for training programs for scientists, engineers, and R&D staff to enhance their skills and knowledge.
- International Collaboration – support for projects carried out in collaboration with foreign partners, aimed at exchanging knowledge and technology and conducting joint research.
- Technology Transfer – assistance in the process of transferring new technologies from research institutions to enterprises for implementation and commercialization.
- Ecological and Sustainable Development Projects – funding for innovations aimed at environmental protection, sustainable development, and combating climate change.
- Social and Health Projects – support for research and innovations in areas related to public health, medical and social care, and improving the quality of life.
Support may include both grants and preferential loans, credits, as well as mentoring and advisory programs.