In
2014, the European Commission launched the SME Instrument to invest in the most
promising European disruptive SMEs and support them to become global actors. Since
its creation, more than 1400 companies were selected to join this community of
highly innovative SMEs. In case you are not yet familiar with this 3 billion
euro venture funding, we listed 6 reasons why you shall care about it:
- It provides to start-ups and SMEs equity-free funding up to €2.5 million (and even up to €5 million for health projects);
- It is tailored to innovative SME needs, with the possibility to apply first for a 50.000 euros funding to prepare a feasibility study and then apply for more funding in next development stages;
- It is not only about money, but also a range of services such as business coaching and opportunities to network with peers and potential investors and clients;
- Our companies are selected through an EU-wide competition. They go through a stringent evaluation procedure (~5% success rate) done by international experts in business development, finance and innovation management;
- Our companies attract investors because they increase credibility and visibility and reduce risk. In 2015, one of our companies went public, several successfully closed series A and B rounds, as well as equity crowdfunding campaigns;
- Our companies develop strategic partnerships with key business players.
Concretely,
to know what kind of companies we support, watch the videos presenting 3 of the
European Champions of our portfolio:
Ultrahaptics Feeling without touching
Interested? Have a look to the infographic presenting the SME Instrument in a nutshell.
