Here we go again, Swiss innovators take note!

The term "Swiss Accelerator" makes some people prick up their ears, because the funding programme is exactly what you would expect. Since Switzerland is no longer an associated country of the European framework programme "Horizon Europe", Swiss start-ups and SMEs are no longer eligible to apply for the EIC Accelerator, which is one of the most well-known European funding programmes. Without further ado, the Swiss Accelerator was launched by Innosuisse - the Swiss Agency for Innovation.

The funding programme is a transitional measure and, like the EIC Accelerator, is aimed at start-ups and SMEs that want to bring high-risk but promising cutting-edge technologies to the market. Start-ups or SMEs that are based in Switzerland and have a Swiss company identification number are eligible to apply.

The Swiss Accelerator was launched for the first time in 2022 and was a resounding success. Numerous Swiss start-ups and SMEs applied for the funding provided by the federal government. The Federal Council has therefore decided to continue the funding programme. It will soon be possible to submit applications to Innosuisse again.

Swiss SME's and start-up companies that are already present in the market with their innovation are entitled to apply. According to Innosuisse, this means that a product or service is already being produced or sold according to the respective description. Companies with less than 250 full-time employees are eligible to apply. In the case of companies that are part of a group, the number of full-time equivalents of the entire group is decisive. In addition, the project results must be implemented quickly and effectively and be scalable.

Pre-market start-ups are not eligible to apply for funding from the Swiss Accelerator. Innosuisse has created the "Start-up Innovation Projects" programme for this purpose.

Innosuisse supports highly innovative and risky projects with funding of up to CHF 2.5 million. The funding rate is 70%, of which 30% must be covered by the applicant. At the start of the project, you will receive 50% pre-financing and the project duration is usually two years.

Start-ups or SMEs can apply to Innosuisse from 28 August 2023 until 9 October 2023, 12:00 CEST at the latest. The application process is similar to the EIC Accelerator, with three stages: a short application, a full application and an application presentation.

You have the opportunity to submit your short application during the application period from 28 August to 9 October 2023, 12:00 CEST. The short application must be submitted via the Innosuisse submission portal, applications via e-mail cannot be considered. After successful evaluation, you will be invited to submit a full application. If this stands out among the applications, the final task is to convince the independent jury of your innovation in a presentation.

Have you already gone to market and are you looking to grow? Use the Swiss Accelerator to take your company to the next level.

We will advise and guide you through the application process. Then simply get in touch with us!