On 9 July, a new Eurostars call opened — Europe’s largest international programme funding R&D projects led by innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Applications are accepted until 10 September 2026, 14:00 CEST.
| Programme | Eurostars Call 11 (Horizon Europe partnership on Innovative SMEs) |
|---|---|
| Who it is for | International R&D consortia led by an innovative SME |
| Funding in Lithuania | Up to €300,000 per project (Research Council of Lithuania) |
| Funding rate for SMEs | 80% of applied research / 60% of pre-competitive development costs |
| Project duration | Up to 36 months |
| Deadline | 10 September 2026, 14:00 CEST |
Who can apply?
Eurostars funds international R&D projects in all fields whose result is a marketable product, process or service. The key eligibility requirements:
- the consortium is led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country;
- at least two independent partners from at least two Eurostars countries take part (37 countries participate, including Lithuania), with at least one from an EU or Horizon Europe Associated Country;
- SMEs account for at least 50% of the project budget (excluding subcontracting), and no single participant or country for more than 70%;
- project duration is up to 36 months, with an exclusive focus on civil applications.
Funding for Lithuanian participants
In Lithuania, Eurostars participants are funded by the Research Council of Lithuania, with up to €300,000 per project:
- SMEs — 80% of applied research or 60% of pre-competitive development costs;
- large companies — 65% or 40% respectively;
- research organisations and universities — 100% of costs if a Lithuanian SME takes part in the consortium.
Timeline and evaluation
Applications (in English) are submitted via the myeurekaproject.org platform. Independent experts score each application against three criteria: quality and efficiency of implementation, impact (market size, commercialisation plan) and excellence. Funding decisions are announced in mid-December 2026, and national funding contracts are signed within 5–7 months of the deadline.
How to prepare an application?
With less than two months left, it pays to start now: agree the consortium composition and budget split, verify eligibility with your national agency, and prepare a clear commercialisation plan — the factor that most often decides the evaluation outcome. ProBaltic Consulting helps assemble consortia, assess eligibility and prepare a competitive application.
Planning a similar project?
ProBaltic Consulting has prepared projects worth more than €250 million since 2007, securing over €90 million in non-dilutive grants. Learn about our services or contact us for a free eligibility assessment.