Swiss Accelerator for start-ups and SMEs

The Swiss Accelerator aims at becoming one of the main instruments promoted by the Swiss government to boost Swiss startups. The Swiss Accelerator is intended to endorse Swiss emergent companies as the EIC Accelerator since Swiss startups and SMEs cannot apply for this program. It is focused on individual startups and SMEs that pursue an innovation project with a strong innovation potential and whose goal is to market innovative new products and services. The focus is on advanced projects that are linked with a high level of risk, but also have great potential for impact and disruption.

The funding from Innosuisse is a maximum of 70 % of project costs. The company bears 30 % of the costs itself. Per application, Innosuisse funding amounts to a maximum of 2.5 million Swiss francs, typically spread over two years.

General information

The revised law allows companies to contribute between 40-60% of the total costs of innovation projects, unlike how it has been so far (up to 50% contribution). This way, Innosuisse may consider either a higher or lower partner contribution in individual cases. The focus will be placed on funding innovations projects by startups, as Innosuisse will have the power to directly support startup innovations and prepare their market entry.

Application process

Start-ups and SMEs undergo a competitive three-stage application process. Short applications may be submitted from 19 April until 10 May 2022 (12:00 CEST), and six steps must be followed to submit the applications:

1.Submit short application: In order to do that, startups or SMEs must fulfil a series of requirements.

2.Submit full application: if the short application is successful, Innosuisse will ask for a full application. After receiving the written confirmation, they will inform of the final submission deadline in writing. The requirements are the same for the short application.

3.Hold applications presentation: this is the final stage of the three-step process: You present your application and the project team to a jury. The jury consists of experts and members of the Innovation Council.

4.Funding decision and project start: A final assessment is made, based on the presentation. The Innovation Council of Innosuisse will make a final decision on applications and Innosuisse will inform of the funding decision at the end of 2022 or beginning of 2023. If the Innovation Council approves your application, you will receive a contract from Innosuisse before the project starts.

5.Project reporting: You must report on your progress according to the contract during your Swiss Accelerator project. This reporting will provide Innosuisse with insights into the progress of the project. Important changes to your project must be requested.

6.Complete project: a final report must be sent on the content and a financial report to Innosuisse no later than two months after completion of your Swiss Accelerator project. You must complete and sign both forms. All reports must be sent by email to [email protected]. Templates can be consulted here.

Last update: April 4, 2022