Introduction to the European Innovation Council (EIC)

The European Innovation Council (EIC) is an ambitious initiative by the European Union designed to support groundbreaking innovations across Europe. With a mission to foster the next generation of technology and innovation, the EIC offers substantial funding opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), start-ups, and researchers pushing the boundaries of what is possible in their respective fields.

The EIC offers two primary types of support: EIC Pathfinder and EIC Accelerator. While EIC Pathfinder targets early-stage innovation with high-risk, high-reward potential, EIC Accelerator is focused on supporting SMEs and start-ups with innovative solutions that have the potential to scale rapidly in the market. This funding is highly competitive, and companies must submit comprehensive applications that demonstrate their potential for significant impact, scalability, and market disruption.

The Power of Video in EIC Funding Applications

One of the unique aspects of the EIC application process is the opportunity to include a video pitch. This three-minute video is a powerful tool that can set your application apart from the competition. Unlike traditional written documents, a well-crafted video can vividly communicate your passion, vision, and the innovative nature of your project in a way that resonates on a personal level with evaluators.

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However, the three-minute time limit is both a blessing and a challenge. It forces companies to distill their message to its most potent form, eliminating fluff and focusing on the core of their innovation. Done right, a video can engage, inspire, and leave a lasting impression, potentially tipping the scales in your favour.

Why Use Video for EIC Applications?

  1. Visual Storytelling: Video allows companies to tell their story in a dynamic and engaging way. Through visuals, narration, and even animation, you can effectively convey the problem your innovation solves, the impact it will have, and the market need it addresses. This form of storytelling is far more compelling than text alone.
  2. Showcase Innovation: If your project involves new technology, a video can demonstrate its functionality, application, and potential. Seeing a prototype in action or understanding a concept through visual aids can make your innovation more tangible and easier to grasp for evaluators.
  3. Emotional Connection: Humans are wired to respond to emotions, and video is an excellent medium for creating an emotional connection. Whether it’s the passion of the founders, the potential societal impact, or the excitement of breakthrough technology, video can capture and convey these emotions effectively.
  4. Clarity and Focus: With only three minutes to make your case, a video forces you to hone in on the most important aspects of your project. This brevity helps avoid overwhelming evaluators with too much information and ensures that your key messages are communicated clearly and concisely.
  5. Differentiation: In a sea of written applications, a well-produced video can make your application stand out. It demonstrates a commitment to your project and a willingness to go the extra mile, which can be a positive signal to evaluators about your dedication and professionalism.
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EIC Application Soluboard® Video

Best Practices for Creating an EIC Application Video

Given the importance of the video in the EIC application process, it is crucial to approach its creation strategically. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

  1. Start with a Strong Script: Your video should be carefully scripted to ensure that every second counts. Start with a hook that grabs attention, clearly state the problem, introduce your solution, and conclude with the potential impact and why your innovation deserves EIC funding. Ensure that your script is concise, clear, and focused.
  2. Visuals Matter: Use visuals that complement and enhance your message. This could include footage of your product in action, animated diagrams that explain complex concepts, or even customer testimonials. High-quality visuals help maintain viewer interest and convey professionalism.
  3. Focus on the Problem and Solution: The core of your video should be centered around the problem you are solving and how your innovation provides a solution. This is what evaluators care most about, so make sure it is clearly communicated.
  4. Professional Production Values: While you don’t need a Hollywood-level production, ensuring that your video is well-lit, has clear audio, and is free of distracting elements is crucial. Poor production quality can detract from your message and leave a negative impression.
  5. Practice the Pitch: If you or your team members are appearing on camera, practice your pitch multiple times to ensure it is delivered confidently and naturally. Nervousness or unclear communication can undermine the effectiveness of your video.
  6. Edit Ruthlessly: With only three minutes available, every word and image must count. Be ruthless in editing your video to remove anything that doesn’t directly support your key messages.
  7. Call to Action: Conclude your video with a strong call to action that encourages evaluators to take the next step. This could be a reminder to review your full application or a closing statement that reinforces the impact your project will have.

Case Study: Jiva Materials – A Winning Video Production

A prime example of how effective video can be in the EIC funding application process is the video production done for Jiva Materials. As a videographer with extensive experience, I had the privilege of creating the video pitch that played a crucial role in securing their funding.

Jiva Materials is an innovative company dedicated to creating sustainable alternatives to traditional materials used in the electronics industry. Their flagship product, Soluboard®, is a biodegradable, non-toxic circuit board that reduces electronic waste and environmental impact.

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Jiva materials Soluboard® EIC video

For their EIC video, the challenge was to convey the technical aspects of Soluboard® while also highlighting its environmental significance and market potential. The approach we took was multi-faceted:

  1. Visual Demonstration: The video included close-up shots of the Soluboard® in various stages of production, illustrating its unique properties and how it functions as an alternative to traditional circuit boards.
  2. Clear Messaging: The script was meticulously crafted to ensure that the problem of electronic waste and the solution offered by Soluboard® were communicated clearly and concisely. We emphasized the innovation’s potential to disrupt the electronics industry and contribute to sustainability goals.
  3. Human Element: To build an emotional connection, we included interviews with the founders of Jiva Materials, where they shared their passion for the project and their vision for the future. This helped to humanize the innovation and demonstrate the team’s commitment.
  4. Impact Focus: The video concluded with a powerful message about the potential environmental impact of widespread adoption of Soluboard®, reinforcing the importance of EIC funding in making this a reality.

The final video was a well-rounded, engaging, and impactful piece that encapsulated the essence of Jiva Materials’ innovation. It not only highlighted the technical merits of Soluboard® but also made a compelling case for its environmental and market impact. This video was instrumental in helping Jiva Materials secure EIC funding, demonstrating the power of a well-crafted video in the application process.

Conclusion

In the competitive landscape of EIC funding, where only the most innovative and impactful projects are selected, every element of your application matters. The three-minute video pitch is a golden opportunity to make a strong, memorable impression on evaluators. By leveraging the power of video, you can clearly convey your innovation, connect emotionally with your audience, and stand out from the competition.

For companies looking to maximize their chances of success, investing in professional video production can be a game-changer. As demonstrated by the Jiva Materials case study, a well-produced video can effectively communicate the essence of your project, making it an invaluable tool in your EIC application arsenal.