EIT Climate-KIC startup Accelerator is an acceleration program focused on promoting projects and initiatives to combat climate change. The accelerator was launched by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) in 2010 yet, its activity did not start until 2012 in Europe, and 2014 in Spain.
Since its inception, they have supported more than 2,000 companies, many of which have grown to become leaders in their field. In Spain the program goes for its sixth edition and has generated more than 100 jobs and admitted more than 1.1 million euros.
A European initiative, the EIT currently operates across 24 countries with 28 centres in Europe, including in the main European capitals, such as Brussels, London, Paris and Berlin. José Luis Muñoz heads the Spanish office.
The program is currently in its 6th edition and access to it depends on the state of maturation of applicants. The Climate-KIC Accelerator is an 18-month program divided in three phases from the closing of its call. The program offers the most innovative startups in the field of climate change and low carbon economy technical (mentors, coaches, specialized sessions, masterclasses, etc.) and financial support. Throughout the three phases, a startup can receive up to 95.000€, as well as gaining access to a wide network of investors.
The program is open to teams of at least two entrepreneurs willing to create a company in in 2019 (6th edition call) during the first phase. In phase 2 and 3 is open to recent companies and SMEs, with no more than two to three of existence, respectively.
The acceleration program requires an innovative idea or product, with potential for growth and global expansion, applicable to any dimension of the climate change. Hence the search for ambitious entrepreneurs and balanced teams, made up of at least two people, with an advanced knowledge of English. To enter the program, the scope of action of the company must be related to one of the following four thematic areas: sustainable industrial production, transition to sustainable cities, sustainable land use and climate data services for decision-making.
At the same time, in addition to the access to specialized investors and an exchange program with other accelerators, including New York, Singapore, Dubai and Paris, the EIT Startup Accelerator Climate-KIC allows access to the largest innovation CleanTech network in the EU, with more than 200 members, public and private. The program can help reach up to 95.000€, apart from giving access to national and international masterclasses and specialised investor forums. Climate-KIC Start-up Accelerator is looking for innovative solutions in the areas of industrial production, urban transitions and land use invested in fostering a low carbon economy. It is a unique chance for entrepreneurs since Climate-KIC Accelerator is the only cleantech accelerator in Spain and the largest in Europe.