Missed the second Info Day of Open Horizons? Don’t worry! Here’s a recap of some of the most important questions raised by participants. The session on July 16 brought together dozens of innovators eager to better understand how to successfully apply to the Open Call and how to align with the programme’s unique challenge-based approach.
Here’s what startups wanted to know:
- Do I need to be registered as a legal entity to apply?
No. You only need to register as a legal entity if your application is selected. Until then, startups, teams, or individual founders can submit their proposal without formal registration. - Can I submit a solution that fits more than one challenge?
Your solution might be applicable to several challenges, but you must select only one in your application. The evaluation is challenge-specific, and each challenge has a dedicated corporate partner reviewing the fit. You can find all the challenges here. - Can I submit more than one application?
Yes, if your startup has more than one solution, you can submit multiple applications. Each must be submitted separately and must clearly address a distinct challenge. - Is collaboration with the corporate partner required during the application?
No. At the application stage, you don’t need to engage directly with the corporate partner. If selected, you will co-develop the pilot with them during the Inception Phase. - Will all selected startups receive the full €55,000?
Not automatically. Selected startups begin with the Inception Phase, receiving €10,000 to co-design a pilot with the corporate partner. Only those with validated pilots will move forward to the Piloting Phase, where up to €45,000 can be awarded. - Can I apply if I’m already in another EU-funded project?
Yes, as long as the project or solution you’re submitting to Open Horizons is not overlapping with your existing EU-funded activity. - What do I need to show about my team?You should clearly present your team’s capacity and experience to develop and deliver the proposed solution. It’s not about company size, but your ability to execute.
- Do I need to describe technical architecture or tech stack?
Only if relevant. The application should focus on clarity, feasibility, and how your solution addresses the specific challenge. If architecture or stack helps demonstrate that, include it concisely. - Is co-funding or matching funding required?
No. Open Horizons provides equity-free support with no need for co-financing. It’s non-dilutive, milestone-based funding. - Is there a minimum or maximum age for startups?
No age limits. The Open Call is open to early-stage or more established startups alike, as long as the proposed solution fits the eligibility criteria and responds to a real industry challenge.
These insights offer a glimpse into what applicants are most curious or confused about. But don’t stop here! All the guidelines, challenge descriptions, and eligibility rules are available on the our website and in the Guidelines.
Watch the full recording of Info Day #2 on YouTube.
Remember: the Open Call remains open until 21 August 2025, 17:00 CEST.
Apply now and bring your solution to life, and boost it with the support of Europe’s leading corporate innovators.
You’re ready? Apply directly here.