If your business is developing new technology with international partners, the Eurostars Call for Projects is a unique program that funds cross‑border R&D led by Canadian SMEs. The March 2026 call is now open. Canada supports participation through NRC IRAP rather than directly through the EU. Canadian SMEs can receive up to 50% of eligible R&D costs, to a maximum of CAD $500,000 per SME. This makes Eurostars a strong option for globally focused innovation.
This guide covers how the Eurostars Call for Projects works in 2026, Canadian eligibility, and key steps to prepare before the March deadline.
Eurostars is part of the Eureka Network, a multinational initiative that funds collaborative R&D projects with clear commercial outcomes. Each country funds its own participants. In Canada, support comes through the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP).
GrantHub can help you find similar international grant programs and check your eligibility for Eurostars and NRC IRAP.
Canadian participation in Eurostars is more restrictive than in some European countries. Only SMEs are supported, and all funding flows through NRC IRAP.
To qualify, your business must:
Not eligible from Canada:
For the March 2026 Eurostars call, Canadian SMEs can receive:
Eligible costs usually include:
Final cost eligibility is confirmed during the NRC IRAP review stage, not at the Eurostars submission stage. Always check the most current NRC IRAP and Eurostars guidelines for 2026 before applying, as funding caps and rules can change.
Waiting too long to contact NRC IRAP
IRAP registration delays regularly disqualify strong Eurostars proposals.
Assuming universities can be funded in Canada
Canadian universities may collaborate, but they cannot receive Eurostars funding through Canada.
Weak commercialisation plans
Eurostars is not basic research. Projects must show a clear path to market.
Budget mismatch between Eurostars and IRAP submissions
Inconsistent cost breakdowns raise red flags during IRAP review.
Applying to Eurostars is a two-track process. Missing one step is a common reason for rejection.
Your project must include partners from at least two participating Eurostars countries. One partner must lead the consortium. Canadian SMEs often act as technical leads, even if a European SME is the formal coordinator.
If you are not already an IRAP client, contact NRC IRAP at least four weeks before the Eurostars deadline. IRAP registration is mandatory before you can receive Canadian funding approval.
The Eurostars application focuses on:
This is submitted through the Eureka Network portal.
In parallel, you must submit a separate project proposal to NRC IRAP, including:
Approval from Eurostars does not guarantee IRAP funding unless this step is completed successfully.
Q: Do I need to be an NRC IRAP client before applying to Eurostars?
Yes. Canadian SMEs must register with NRC IRAP before submitting the Eurostars application. This is mandatory for funding eligibility.
Q: How much funding can my business receive under Eurostars?
Canadian SMEs can receive up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at CAD $500,000 per SME.
Q: Are Eurostars funds repayable?
No. Eurostars funding for Canadian SMEs is non-repayable. Tax treatment depends on your accounting approach and should be confirmed with an advisor.
Q: What types of projects are eligible?
Eligible projects are civilian R&D initiatives focused on developing new or improved products, processes, or services with strong commercial potential.
Q: Can large companies participate from Canada?
No. Canada only supports SME participation under the Eurostars program.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada, including international R&D funding options like Eurostars. This helps you confirm fit before you invest time in applying.
The Eurostars Call for Projects is one of the most competitive international R&D programs available to Canadian SMEs. To improve your chances, start planning early. Build a strong consortium. Make sure your project meets NRC IRAP rules. If you’re considering Eurostars or similar international programs, GrantHub can help you compare funding options that fit your business before deadlines approach.
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