The European Innovation Council (EIC) has awarded nearly €116 million in funding to 31 new research projects selected through the 2024 EIC Pathfinder Challenges call
These projects aim to achieve a significant breakthrough in five strategic areas of research and innovation. Picked from 401 eligible submissions, the selected projects will each receive, on average, €3.73 million to support their cutting-edge developments.
The EIC Pathfinder Challenges initiative supports creative and high-risk research in breakthrough technologies. This year’s funding is directed at projects that have the potential to transform industries and address major global challenges, with a particular focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and space innovation.
The chosen projects cover a variety of fields, including sustainable manufacturing, next-generation electronics and space exploration. A few of these projects hope to reduce humanity’s environmental impact, whether by advancing renewable sources or improving efficiency across various industries.
Sustainable chemistry with SUN2CN
One of the projects, SUN2CN, hopes to revolutionise the production of important chemicals by using sunlight.
This new technology will use waste products such as carbon dioxide and nitrates, transforming them into valuable chemicals typically used in fertilisers and medicines.
The SUN2CN approach eliminates the need for fossil fuels, dramatically reducing energy consumption in the chemical manufacturing process. By using only sunlight, this project could pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly chemical industry.
Eco-friendly materials with BORN
Another project, BORN, focuses on creating a bio-based, low-cost material that can replace traditional packaging and other products requiring heat resistance.
This new material, produced from renewable resources, is biodegradable and can be used to make compostable microwave containers and disposable cups for hot drinks.
BORN’s innovation addresses environmental concerns and offers practical applications in various industries, including agriculture, where it can be used in mulch films, and in packaging solutions. The project emphasises sustainability throughout the material’s lifecycle, from production to biodegradation.
Revolutionising electronics with 2D-ADDICT
The 2D-ADDICT project is expected to reshape the future of nanoelectronics.
Researchers are focusing on two-dimensional materials (2DMs), just a few atoms thick that can potentially create ultra-energy-efficient devices. These devices will be used in smart technologies, consuming less power while maintaining high performance.
2DMs offer unique advantages, such as rapid electron movement and precise control over electric fields, making them ideal candidates to overcome limitations in current semiconductor technologies. This project can potentially drive major advancements in electronics, paving the way for smarter, more energy-efficient devices.
Space innovation with DEXTER
Regarding space technology, the DEXTER project hopes to address the growing problem of space debris.
As more satellites and spacecraft accumulate in Earth’s orbit, the risk of collisions increases, creating hazardous conditions for future missions. DEXTER proposes a new solution: advanced robots and propulsion systems that can recycle space junk.
The project plans to use laser cutting and welding techniques to process discarded satellites, converting scrap materials like aluminium into fuel for future missions. This initiative could significantly reduce space debris and establish a circular economy in space, turning waste into valuable resources.
Supporting innovation through EIC business acceleration services
Not only will the projects gain financial support, but they will also benefit from tailored coaching provided by the EIC Business Acceleration Services. These services hope to help innovators refine their business strategies, accelerate their growth, and maximise the impact of their work. The projects may receive fast-track access to the EIC Accelerator, further boosting their potential for success.
The next steps for the selected projects involve finalising grant agreements. Once these agreements are signed, the funding will be officially disbursed, enabling researchers to begin fully developing and implementing their groundbreaking ideas.
