Eurostars is an international funding programme for innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) engaged in research and development. It is jointly operated by EUREKA and the European Commission, with co-funding from national budgets of 37 participating countries and the European Union through Horizon Europe. The programme focuses on supporting collaborative international R&D projects aimed at developing marketable innovative products, processes, or services. Eurostars is open to all technological areas and markets, provided the projects have a civilian purpose. Eurostars offers substantial funding, with most countries providing up to 50% of project costs, typically ranging from €100,000 to €500,000 per project. A typical project with three SME partners could receive up to €1.5 million in subsidies. The programme has a high success rate of 29% compared to other funding schemes. To be eligible, projects must involve at least two independent partners from different Eurostars countries, with the main partner being an innovative SME. Projects should aim for rapid commercialization, with market introduction planned within two years of project completion. Eurostars has supported numerous successful projects across various sectors, contributing to job creation, economic development, and long-term transnational cooperation. The programme offers two application deadlines per year, providing ample opportunities for SMEs to secure funding for their innovative projects.
Eurostars, a joint programme between EUREKA and the European Commission, could potentially support the development of the European Housing Cooperative (EHC) in several ways. Eurostars primarily funds innovative R&D projects led by research-performing SMEs. While the EHC itself may not qualify as an SME, it could partner with eligible SMEs working on sustainable housing technologies, energy efficiency solutions, or innovative cooperative management systems to apply for Eurostars funding. The programme's focus on market-oriented transnational projects aligns well with EHC's pan-European vision. Eurostars could support research and development of technologies that enhance sustainable and affordable housing across Europe, such as energy-efficient building materials, smart home systems, or cooperative housing management platforms. Eurostars offers funding of up to 60% of project costs for SMEs, with a maximum duration of 36 months. This could provide significant financial support for developing innovative solutions that address EHC's goals. While there are no exact precedents for funding a cooperative housing initiative, Eurostars has supported projects in related fields such as sustainable construction, energy efficiency, and smart city technologies. For example, projects focusing on eco-friendly building materials or energy management systems for residential buildings have received funding in the past.