EIC Community Partnership Programme: Call for Tenders Launched

On July 23, 2025, the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) announced a new call for tenders titled the "EIC Community and Ecosystem Partnership Programme," identified by the procedure number EISMEA/2025/OP/0024. This initiative aims to support activities for the European Innovation Council (EIC) community and its ecosystem partners, focusing on enhancing collaboration and communication among stakeholders involved in innovation.

The main goal of the EIC Community Partnership Programme is to effectively coordinate and implement various components of the EIC Community Programme and the EIC Women Leadership Programme. Additionally, it seeks to enhance the communication strategies for the EIC Business Acceleration Services and connect EIC awardees with innovation actors worldwide. According to the official announcement by EISMEA, this will enable participants to access specialized, sector-focused services, resources, facilities, and expertise tailored to their specific technology and business development needs.

The services to be procured under this tender include: 1. **Management of the EIC Community:** This involves overseeing the EIC Community platform, organizing community events, and deploying Key Account Managers assigned by sector to effectively engage with community members, identify their needs, and guide them towards appropriate services. 2. **Joint Activities with EIC Partners:** The program will facilitate various collaborative activities, such as information sessions, stakeholder days, pitching, and training sessions to promote available services as per the existing EIC Service Catalogue. 3. **EIC Women Leadership Programme:** This component will focus on providing training, mentoring, and networking opportunities specifically designed for female researchers and entrepreneurs aspiring to leadership roles in business. 4. **Communication and Event Coordination:** The tender also includes responsibilities for coordinating and supporting the communication and event activities associated with ongoing EIC Business Acceleration Services contracts.

Applications for this tender must be submitted electronically via the e-tendering portal by September 9, 2025. The estimated total value of the contract is €7 million, with a maximum duration of 48 months. The award criterion will be based on the best price-quality ratio.

The significance of this initiative lies in its potential to strengthen the EIC community and promote innovation across Europe. By fostering collaboration and providing targeted support, the EIC Community Partnership Programme is expected to enhance the overall impact of the EIC's initiatives, particularly in empowering women leaders in the innovation sector.

According to the European Commission, the EIC is a crucial component of the EU's strategy to drive economic growth and sustainability through innovation. It focuses on supporting high-risk, high-potential startups and SMEs that contribute to Europe’s competitive landscape. The launch of this tender illustrates the EIC's commitment to creating a robust ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurial talent and fosters collaboration between various stakeholders.

In conclusion, the EIC Community and Ecosystem Partnership Programme represents a strategic effort to unify and strengthen the innovation landscape within Europe. As stakeholders prepare to engage in this tender process, the future of the EIC community looks promising, with increased opportunities for collaboration, development, and leadership among its members.