⚠ Summarised by AI based on an external source. Last updated: 30 Mar 2026. Starthubs is not liable for any inaccuracies. Always consult the official challenge information.
RENEW-BOOSTER is a Euroclusters project that puts EU innovation grants directly in the hands of SMEs working in solar (PV), offshore wind and energy grids. The first open call offers two routes: Strand A for SMEs responding to specific industry challenges in a fast-tracked two-step format, and Strand B for open innovation projects at any maturity stage. Grants run up to €60,000 per SME — with 50% paid upfront for Strand B — alongside mentoring, training and access to a pan-European clean energy network. The deadline is 28 April 2026.
What is RENEW-BOOSTER looking for?
The call targets product and process innovations that strengthen the resilience and diversification of European clean energy supply chains across three sectors: photovoltaics, offshore wind (including floating), and energy grids. Two routes are available. Strand A (challenge-driven) asks SMEs to respond to specific innovation challenges defined by leading energy industry players — projects run in two steps, with a fast feasibility phase (3 weeks, TRL 6–7) followed by a demonstration phase (12 weeks, TRL 8–9). Strand B (open call) is sector-scoped but topic-open: eligible innovations include new or improved products enabling critical material substitution, diversified supplier development, process innovations in manufacturing, digital solutions related to supply chains and technologies reducing environmental impact. Projects last 3 to 6 months. Funding is structured in three tiers based on project maturity. Full guidelines and the application form are available on the official RENEW-BOOSTER website and via the EU Survey portal.
Who is this for?
SMEs (under the EU definition) established in an EU Member State or Single Market Programme country — including the Netherlands. Both individual SMEs and consortia may apply; in a consortium, each SME can receive up to €60,000. Applicants must comply with EU fundamental values and be able to demonstrate financial capacity.
What's in it for you?
- Strand A (challenge-driven, two-step): €10,000 grant at Step 1 (80% funding, 20% co-financing) · €50,000 at Step 2 (60% funding, 40% co-financing)
- Strand B (open call, maturity tiers): €10,000 (30% funding), €30,000 (40%) or €60,000 (60%) depending on project maturity · tiers can be combined sequentially from prototyping to deployment · 50% pre-financing paid upfront
- Training and toolkits on sustainability, energy efficiency, AI/data, cloud, cybersecurity and digitalisation
- Mentoring, R&D facilitation and cross-border networking across Denmark, Norway, Spain, France, Bulgaria and Poland
- Access to testbeds and innovation labs via the consortium's partner network
- Project execution within the RENEW-BOOSTER programme period (October 2025 – June 2028)