ERC Proof of Concept Grant

Scope:

Objectives:

The ERC Proof of Concept Grants aim to maximise the value of the excellent research that the ERC funds, by funding further work (i.e. activities which were not scheduled to be funded by the original ERC frontier research grant) to verify the innovation potential of ideas arising from ERC funded projects. Proof of Concept Grants are therefore on offer only to Principal Investigators whose proposals draw substantially on their ERC funded research.

Size of ERC Proof of Concept Grants:

The financial contribution will be awarded as a lump sum of EUR 150 000 for a period of 18 months. The ERC expects that normally proof of concept projects should be completed within 12 months. However, to allow for those projects that require more preparation time, projects will be signed for 18 months. Given this initial flexibility, extensions of the duration of proof of concept projects may be granted only exceptionally.
The lump sum offered will cover the beneficiaries' direct and indirect eligible costs for the project: if the project is implemented properly the amounts will be paid regardless of the costs actually incurred. Specifically, the lump sum has been designed to cover 100% of the eligible direct costs and indirect costs calculated by applying a flat-rate of 25% to the direct cost categories.

Profile of the ERC Proof of Concept Eligible Principal Investigator:

All Principal Investigators in an ERC frontier research project, that is either ongoing or has ended less than 12 months before 1 January 2020, are eligible to participate and apply for an ERC Proof of Concept Grant.

For further information please see the ERC Work Programme 2020.