HARD2SCALE is an EU-funded project that supports the growth of deep tech and digital startups, particularly in energy-intensive and hard-to-abate industries. The project establishes a European cross-border accelerator programme aimed at helping innovations move from the pilot phase to market and industrial deployment.
The main objective of the project is to accelerate the scaling of innovations and support the green transition of industry by:
- Supporting the growth and internationalisation of deep tech startups
- Promoting the adoption of innovations in energy-intensive sectors
- Connecting startups, industry, investors and research organisations
- Strengthening companies’ capabilities in accessing funding and entering markets
HARD2SCALE provides startups with comprehensive support from idea to market:
- Developing a cross-border accelerator programme that connects European innovation ecosystems
- Providing tailored business and technology expertise
- Organising workshops, pilot opportunities and matchmaking events
- Supporting companies in securing funding and engaging with investors
- Creating connections to industrial partners and testing environments
The goal is to build a sustainable model that supports startup growth across borders and strengthens the European innovation ecosystem.
The most difficult emissions to reduce in Europe often originate from heavy industry. At the same time, many promising technologies remain stuck in the pilot phase without sufficient support. HARD2SCALE addresses this challenge by combining technology development, business growth support, and access to funding and markets. The aim is to help innovations reach real-world application faster and to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness in developing sustainable industry.
The project is implemented in collaboration between eight European organisations, including actors from both emerging and leading innovation ecosystems.
The partners include:
- KiNNO Innovation Intermediaries (Greece) – Project coordinator
- Aster Capital (France)
- Accent Inkubator GmbH (Austria)
- Venture Booster (Portugal)
- INNOVA Technology Transfer & Valorisation (Italy)
- G-Force (Slovakia)
- EurA AG (Germany)
- Merinova
