Budget

The program does not offer direct funding (grant). It is a completely free acceleration program with no equity taken. Startups benefit from value through acceleration services, mentorship, market validation, and connections with investors, without any cost or shareholder dilution.

Key dates and deadline

Application deadline: May 9, 2026 Program duration: approximately 6–7 months (May – November 2026) Final Demo Day: November 2026, Malta Format: predominantly online, with physical activities at the Demo Day Application platform: F6S

Details

The program focuses on three thematic areas: recycling, recovery, and remanufacturing (including semiconductors and the photovoltaic sector); scaling the EU electronics industry value chain and circularity; integrating green chemistry and secondary raw materials into semiconductor and electronics production. Selected startups undergo a structured 6–7 month program that includes onboarding, individual coaching sessions, thematic workshops, collaboration opportunities with industrial partners for piloting, investment readiness training, and pitching at the Demo Day in front of European investors.

Eligibility

Startups from any country in the world (if registered outside of Europe, they must register in a European country within 6 months of selection) Activity in the electronics or semiconductor sector Technology readiness level TRL 4–8 Company founded since 2019 (maximum 7 years old) Team with relevant and demonstrable expertise Clearly articulated potential for scaling and market penetration

Additional information

How to apply?

https://cascadefunding.eu/open-call/even-closer-acceleration-program/