EU-LAC Digital Accelerator Open Call 3
Partnerships between large corporations and start-ups or innovative SMEs from the European Union, Latin America, or the Caribbean
This program accelerates digital transformation by fostering successful partnerships between corporates and startups or SMEs across Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Aimed at overcoming the high failure rate of such collaborations, it supports EU-LAC partnerships that address digital transformation challenges through Open Innovation. Eligible partnerships must involve at least one corporate and one startup or SME, include partners from at least two of the regions (EU, Latin America, or the Caribbean), and have a signed partnership agreement or plan to formalize one before the acceleration process begins.
Type of projects to be funded: The open call supports partnerships between large corporations and start-ups or innovative SMEs from the European Union, Latin America, or the Caribbean (partnership covering at least two regions). The selected partnerships will receive acceleration services tailored to their needs, focusing on business development, investment readiness, and scaling-up. The support includes mentorship, roadmap development, proof-of-concept validation, and business model design.
Sectors / domain: The call is open to all sectors and industries, no specific domain restrictions.
Individual or consortium: Applications must be submitted as partnerships consisting of at least one large corporation and one start-up or innovative SME. These partners must be legally established in any country within the European Union, Latin America, or the Caribbean.
Specific eligibility requirements:
- At least one corporation and one start-up/innovative SME must form the partnership.
- Partners must be legally established in the European Union, Latin America, or the Caribbean.
- SMEs must meet the EU definition, which includes: Being independent (not owned by another enterprise); having fewer than 250 employees; an annual turnover of ≤ EUR 50 million OR an annual balance sheet total of ≤ EUR 43 million.
- Partnership members must come from at least two of the three regions: EU, Latin America, or the Caribbean.
- Existing partnerships must be disclosed, though formal agreements do not need to be submitted.
Specific topics or challenges: The open call does not impose specific priority topics. Any partnership addressing business opportunities and innovation in any sector is eligible.
Projects duration: The acceleration programme is structured into three phases:
- Roadmap Development (~1 month)
- Acceleration Services Delivery (~5 months)
- Visibility and Networking (No fixed duration, ongoing support)
Budget, funding rates and payment conditions: Funding is provided in the form of services rather than direct financial grants.
Links
Closes
30/04/2025
Max funding per project
40.000€