A strong partnership or an innovative project idea? How to get more out of your Eurostars application
International collaboration provides innovative SMEs with access to new knowledge, technologies and markets. With the Eurostars grant, they can work together to develop innovative products, processes and services. However, an international consortium alone does not guarantee a strong grant application. The added value of the collaboration, commercial feasibility and distribution of project risks play an equally important role. So, what should you consider when starting a Eurostars project?
A strong partnership or an innovative project?
Eurostars supports international research and development projects led by innovative SMEs. An important feature of the programme is that it offers relatively considerable flexibility to determine the content and technological direction of a project. While some grant programmes are strongly guided by predefined societal or technological themes, Eurostars places significant responsibility on the consortium itself: the partners must demonstrate why their joint innovation is technically relevant, commercially promising and feasible.
This is also reflected in the Eurostars evaluation criteria. International experts assess projects based on three main areas: the quality and efficiency of implementation, the expected impact and technological excellence. This means that a technically innovative project does not automatically result in a convincing Eurostars application. The technological development must also address a specific market need and be supported by a credible international collaboration.
More international partners do not automatically mean a better application
A strong and innovative project alone is therefore not enough. A strong partnership is equally important. A common strategic question is therefore how many partners a Eurostars consortium needs. The programme requires at least two independent organisations from two different Eurostars countries. In addition, at least one organisation must be based in an EU Member State or a country associated with Horizon Europe.
Although larger consortia can provide access to additional expertise, this does not always lead to better collaboration. More parties also bring additional organisational challenges. These include coordination between partners, the distribution of intellectual property rights and differences in commercial interests. A smaller consortium may therefore be more effective in certain situations than an extensive international collaboration. It is not the number of partners that matters, but the quality and added value of the collaboration.
As an SME, therefore, always start by asking: what knowledge and capabilities are missing? Then consider which international partner(s) can fill that gap.
What ultimately makes a Eurostars application successful?
According to Eureka, approximately 20% of submitted Eurostars applications ultimately receive funding. This highlights the importance of an application in which the different project components reinforce each other. Combining strong international collaboration, technological innovation and market orientation within your application increases your chances of securing Eurostars funding. The Eurostars programme is therefore an attractive funding opportunity for innovative SMEs, but at the same time requires a well-considered project strategy.
It is therefore important not only to consider the opportunities Eurostars offers, but also whether your chosen partnership will actually deliver results, is feasible and addresses a commercial need.
Preparing your international Eurostars innovation project?
Curious whether your project is eligible for a Eurostars grant? Our specialists would be happy to assess your project with you. They can support you in evaluating funding opportunities, building a strong consortium and preparing a well-substantiated grant application. The 12th Eurostars call opens on 17 December 2026. Now is therefore the right time to start preparing! Contact us at info@hezelburcht.com, call 088 495 20 00 or fill in our contact form to discuss your project.
