Norbert Hermann, Head of Startups Affairs at Berlin Senate delivered the opening speech, stating that their main goal is to make Berlin more inviting and open for startups. Emphasizing the need for 'more transparency and cooperation,' Hermann highlighted the vital role of startups in shaping Berlin’s economy. According to the Berlin Employment Report, 73.000 jobs in Berlin are created by local start-ups, contributing significantly to Berlin’s labor market.

Giuseppe Lombardi, Head of EIC Investment Unit, presented key figures about the EIC Fund’s investments in Germany. Lombardi stated on his speech that the EIC Fund has invested 105 million Euros capital in Germany in a diversified portfolio, with 23% allocated to Energy, 21% to Medical Technologies, 16% to Agriculture & Food, and 14% to Quantum Computing & Semiconductors.

Since 2021, the EIC has funded 90 projects out of 632 applications in Germany. The total requested budget of those 90 projects were €565 million. According to March 2024 data, with 19% success rate, Germany is sharing the lead with France for the funding eligibility under the EIC Accelerator program.

Between 2021 and 2027, the EIC has a budget of €10 billion, which is ranging from €0.5 to €15 million per company, reimbursing 70% of the total costs up to €2.5 million. In addition to financial backing, projects gain access to expert advice and mentorship. Multiple non-EU countries are also included in the list of participating countries, including Canada, Turkey and UK.

It is necessary for applicants to go through a three-step application process in order to be eligible for a fund. The first step is short application, in which the applicants pitch the idea, followed by the full proposal and the third step is a face-to-face interview with experts. Embassies play a key role in facilitating this process by connecting startups in their home countries with funding opportunities, therefore strengthening international cooperation and economic growth. The application process can be started from Funding & Tenders Portal: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/home

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