Future where innovation reigns supreme in the heart of the European Union (EU) is not a mere vision; it’s a clear-cut priority for the years to come. The EU is setting its sights on revolutionary advancements in the domains of energy transition, digitalization, Internet of Things, and robotics. And at the forefront of this ambitious journey is the transformative force of Cascade Funding. Cascade funding, also known as Financial Support for Third Parties (FSTP), is a mechanism devised by the European Commission to distribute public funding with the aim of facilitating the adoption and development of digital innovation among SMEs and start-ups.
The Cascade Funding Approach
In the ever-evolving landscape of European research and innovation, Cascade Funding takes centre stage. It thrives within the renowned Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe programs, introduced in 2021, both dedicated to shaping a smarter, more sustainable, and inclusive future while creating job opportunities across Europe.
Its purpose is to simplify and expedite the journey towards accessing public funding through the European Commission. In a brilliant twist, European consortia can earmark a portion of their budget to support third parties, even those not initially recognized as direct beneficiaries. These funds are allocated through competitive open calls, often in the form of prizes, vouchers, or grants.
A distinctive feature of Cascade Funding is its equity-free nature. No equity or share capital is expected from any party involved, making it a level playing field where innovation knows no financial constraints.
In this dynamic process, the European Commission’s criteria stand strong:
Excellence: The quest for innovation excellence remains at the core.
Transparency: Every step of the journey is clear, open, and transparent.
Fairness: Fairness ensures that opportunities are equal for all.
Confidentiality: Ideas are safeguarded with the utmost confidentiality.
Efficiency and Speed: An agile and swift approach keeps the momentum alive.
Conflict of Interest: Strict conflict of interest protocols maintain integrity.
With Cascade Funding, the path to shaping a dynamic European landscape of research and innovation has never been more accessible and promising. And the easiest way to get access to cascade funding is to join the FundingBox ecosystem and be the first informed about new funding opportunities. Scan the QR code and join the Smart Manufacturing Community.
FundingBox is a gateway to a world of possibilities in the realm of innovation and growth. Here’s what makes us stand out:
- Financial Empowerment: At FundingBox, we specialise in the art of securing funding for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Our dedicated team assists businesses in identifying and accessing grants, subsidies, and investment funds that can fuel their visionary projects.
- Championing Innovation: We’re not just supporters; we’re champions of innovation. In our relentless pursuit of progress, we collaborate with a diverse network of partners from both public and private sectors, as well as innovation trailblazers. Together, we pave the way for groundbreaking solutions.
- Elevating Projects and Partnerships: We actively engage in a myriad of initiatives aimed at fostering innovation. These ventures encompass research and development projects, dynamic accelerator programs for startups, and strategic efforts to boost business development.
- Bridge Builders: At FundingBox, we serve as the vital link connecting a kaleidoscope of innovators, including startups, SMEs, investors, research institutions, and industry organisations. Our mission is to create synergy and inspire transformative change.
- Information Hub: We’re not just about securing funds; we’re your go-to resource for project communication, innovation advocacy, and the distribution of crucial information about available financial resources and investment opportunities.
- Comprehensive Business Support: For startups and SMEs who partner with us, we offer a comprehensive suite of business support services. Whether you need guidance on refining your business strategy, honing your product development, or making a successful market entry, FundingBox has your back every step of the way.
| In the AMULET Project, FundingBox is responsible for exploiting the innovation potential of small and medium-sized enterprises through organising Open Calls. The finalist of the Open Call participated in the Support Programme and received financial support up to €60,000. FundingBox managed two Open Calls in which 43 SMEs were selected and joined the AMULET Support Programme. |
