How to access cascade funding

How to access cascade funding

In the world of European innovation, accessing cascade funding provides SMEs, startups, and research organisations with a great way to secure financial support for their projects. This funding, also known as third-party funding, distributes grants from large EU programmes like Horizon Europe. Intermediaries handle the allocation process, making it easier for companies to access resources for developing cutting-edge technologies, advancing digitalisation, or building sustainable solutions.

If your company seeks funding for innovation, this guide will show you how to access cascade funding and the necessary steps to maximise your chances of success in these calls.

How to access cascade funding

You can access these opportunities by following a few key steps, and with the right preparation, success is within reach.

1. Identify the right calls

The first step to access cascade funding involves identifying the calls that best fit your sector and project. These calls are managed by European institutions, large consortia, or innovation clusters acting as intermediaries between the European Commission and companies looking for funding.

Stay updated on open calls because the deadlines are often tight. Platforms like Kaila.eu can simplify this process by providing detailed, centralised information about relevant calls for your business.

2. Check your project’s eligibility

Each cascade funding call has specific requirements that you need to meet. These can vary, depending on your company size or the type of innovation you’re developing. Most projects must align with European Union objectives, such as digital transformation, sustainability, or energy efficiency.

Carefully check the eligibility criteria before submitting an application. This step helps avoid rejection due to unmet requirements, ensuring your proposal gets proper consideration.

3. Develop a strong proposal

To successfully access cascade funding, you need a clear and well-structured proposal. Even though you don’t need to dive into extreme technical detail, your proposal must clearly outline the innovative value of your project and how it contributes to the objectives of the call. Additionally, explain how you will use the funds and the economic, social, or environmental impact of your project.

Highlight your project’s technical aspects, market potential, and the team driving it. A compelling and well-crafted proposal can significantly increase your chances of obtaining funding.

Which companies can access cascade funding?

One of the advantages of cascade funding is its accessibility to a wide range of organisations. Many companies and institutions can benefit from this opportunity:

1. Startups

Startups that develop solutions in areas like artificial intelligence, blockchain, or biotech have a strong chance of securing cascade funding. This type of financial support helps speed up R&D processes, validate products, and scale internationally.

2. SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are key targets for cascade funding. If your SME is working on an innovative project, this type of funding can help you reduce financial risks and gain access to advanced technologies or infrastructures.

3. Research organisations

Many cascade funding calls target research institutions or consortia working on collaborative, large-scale innovation projects. Universities and technology centres can take advantage of this funding to form partnerships and obtain support for applied research.

4. Technology companies

Firms developing disruptive technologies or working in sectors like IoT, cybersecurity, or robotics can also benefit. These companies can use cascade funding to build prototypes, test concepts, or scale their solutions.

How does cascade funding work?

In cascade funding, intermediaries distribute large EU programme funds to smaller beneficiaries. Clusters, accelerators, business associations, or research consortia often manage these funds.

To apply, submit a proposal to a specific call. If your project meets the criteria and gets selected, you receive a direct grant, with no need for complex administrative procedures.

Key steps to access cascade funding

  1. Monitor open calls regularly: Keep up to date with the latest opportunities.
  2. Check your project’s eligibility: Make sure your proposal aligns with the call’s requirements.
  3. Prepare a strong, structured proposal: Clearly define your project’s impact and how it will achieve its goals.
  4. Submit your application on time: Don’t miss out on funding by missing deadlines.

How Kaila.eu helps you find cascade funding calls

Navigating the complex landscape of european funding can feel overwhelming. This is where Kaila.eu becomes an essential tool for your funding strategy. Kaila offers a platform that centralises information about open calls, funding opportunities, and collaboration networks across Europe.

Kaila allows you to filter calls by programme, organisation type, and region, saving you time and helping you focus on crafting a successful proposal. Additionally, the platform connects you with other key players in the innovation ecosystem, enabling the formation of consortia and partnerships required by many calls.

With Kaila.eu, you’ll not only discover the most relevant opportunities but also stay on top of trends and access resources to enhance your funding strategy.

From Kaila, we also offer you a calendar of cascade funding calls with their closing dates. You can download it for free at this link:

Download cascade funding calendar

Accessing cascade funding provides an excellent opportunity for startups, SMEs, and research organisations to develop innovative projects. By following the right steps and leveraging the tools available, such as Kaila.eu, your company can secure the financial support it needs to thrive in the competitive European innovation landscape.