This service supports innovative SMEs and startups in preparing and successfully executing equity fundraising activities by improving their investment readiness and facilitating access to relevant investors. It is addressed to EIC beneficiaries and other innovation-driven ventures (TRL 4-9), regardless of sector, and is typically delivered over a period of 2 to 6 weeks through a tailored combination of advisory sessions, coaching, and matchmaking activities. The service is delivered by experienced in-house experts in business development and access to finance, complemented where relevant by external, investors, and Market research specialists. The goal of the service is to support innovative SMEs and startups in building a structured and investor-oriented fundraising strategy that strengthens their capacity to attract equity investment and scale internationally.

The service includes: (1) Investment Readiness Assessment, consisting of an evaluation of the company’s preparedness for equity investment and the identification of gaps in team composition, business model, financial planning, and market traction based on investor expectations; (2)  Market research to support the development or execution of the business plan, including quantitative and/or qualitative primary research to test concepts and pricing and generate deeper insights into customer preferences, as well as situational analysis to identify differentiation opportunities, combined with refinement of the business model and value proposition through business intelligence, competitor analysis, and market exploration aligned with investor interests. The  support is provided by outsourced experts; (3) Pitching Preparation and Coaching, including guidance on structuring effective pitch decks, simulation sessions (dry-runs) with expert feedback, one-to-one and group coaching, and practical advice on engaging investors; (4) Investor Identification and Matchmaking, including mapping of suitable investors such as venture capital funds and business angels, advisory on outreach strategies and engagement techniques, facilitation of bilateral meetings and introductions, and access to pitching opportunities at international innovation and investment events; and (5) Internationalisation and Scale-up Facilitation, including participation in international brokerage events and business missions, support in identifying partners for R&D collaboration and market expansion, and promotion through European and national networks for increased visibility and cross-border collaboration.

While the service follows this structured pathway, specific activities and effort allocation across phases are tailored to the needs of each beneficiary and may emphasise selected components depending on their readiness level and fundraising objectives. The expected outcome is an increased level of investment readiness, improved investor-facing materials and pitching performance, and enhanced access to relevant investors and funding opportunities, ultimately increasing the likelihood of successful fundraising. The service is delivered through a combination of online and on-site sessions, depending on the needs of the beneficiary.