Call for applications to receive an Innovation Award, targeting visionary entrepreneurs who are developing breakthrough technologies for next-generation high-tech systems.

About this grant

Call for applications to receive an Innovation Award, targeting visionary entrepreneurs who are developing breakthrough technologies for next-generation high-tech systems. This award is designed for startups worldwide that are working on high-complexity technologies currently at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 to 6. ASML explicitly states a preference for bold, moonshot ideas at lower TRLs over incremental innovations at higher maturity levels. The challenge is divided into two primary categories aimed at solving the world’s most complex technical hurdles: Advanced Manufacturing Excellence: This includes pioneering new materials, additive manufacturing processes, robotics, and automation systems that make critical production more reliable and scalable; Next Frontier in Tech: This track focuses on fundamental research and breakthrough hardware, such as quantum or photonic computing, novel energy paradigms, and equipment designed for extreme environments like space or the deep sea. Award serves as a collaboration engine, offering winners significant professional leverage rather than a direct cash prize. Selected innovators will receive: Expert Coaching: 15 hours of tailored mentoring from specialists to accelerate technical development and market entry; Global Visibility: Official recognition as an Award winner, including a spotlight on global communication channels; Industry Networking: A ticket to the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit in Amsterdam for the official awarding ceremony, providing access to a world-class ecosystem of high-tech leaders.

How to apply

1. 1Verify eligibility criteria, including applicant type (e.g., SMEs, consortia), geographic requirements, and funding rates (often 40-100% co-financing).
2. 2Form a consortium if required (e.g., minimum partners from multiple countries for collaborative projects).
3. 3Register as a user and your organization on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal to obtain a Participant Identification Code (PIC).
4. 4Download templates, prepare Part A (administrative data) and Part B (technical description, budget, impact), and run validation checks.
5. 5Submit online before the deadline; track via confirmation email and code, with evaluation taking 3-6 months.
6. 6Visit https://eufundingportal.eu for application details

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