Updated 22 October 2026. The first Proof of Concept (Dokazivanje inovativnog koncepta) call (from EUR 26,500 to 70,000) closed on 15 September 2026, and the second is planned for autumn 2026 and has not yet been published. You can follow the status of all calls in the guide Grants and EU funds for entrepreneurs 2026.
Proof of Concept (PoC), or proof of an innovative concept, is crucial in developing and testing innovative ideas, products and services. A PoC confirms the feasibility of a technology. It also shows its potential for market application. This is especially important for start-ups and companies seeking funding, including from EU funds.
In brief
- A Proof of Concept (PoC) confirms the feasibility of a technology and shows its potential for market application.
- A successful PoC helps attract investment and grants, reduces risk by revealing shortcomings before market launch and focuses resources.
- It is used for green technologies, in pharmaceuticals and medicine, and to test the key functions of mobile apps and digital platforms.
- Calls for the PoC phase target SMEs and scientific institutions with projects at TRL 3 and 4.
- The first Croatian Proof of Concept call, with grants from EUR 26,500 to 70,000, closed on 15 September 2026, and the second has not yet been published.
Why is Proof of Concept important?
- Attracting investment: Businesses and EU calls look for clear validation of an innovation. A successful PoC increases the chances of financial support and investment.
- Minimising risk: A PoC allows a product to be tested in real conditions. This reveals shortcomings before the product reaches the market.
- Strategic focus: It enables more efficient allocation of resources. This reduces unnecessary costs.
Proof of Concept
Where a PoC sits in innovation development and what it brings
What a PoC brings
Where is Proof of Concept used?
- Eco-friendly technologies: The PoC model helps in developing mini solar panels or energy storage systems. The aim is to prove that the innovative concept really works before full production begins.
- Pharmaceuticals and medicine: Pharmaceutical companies use PoC to confirm the efficacy of drugs and technologies.
- Mobile applications: PoC is used to test the key functionalities and user interface of digital platforms before launch or commercialisation.
Proof of Concept is an indispensable tool in the research and development process. It increases the success of innovations and their market relevance. Regardless of company size, a PoC is the foundation for future success.
Grants for Proof of Concept (PoC)
In 2024 and 2025, several EU calls will open to fund the PoC phase. They target SMEs and scientific institutions with projects at the TRL 3-4 stage. The aid helps reduce risk and speed up market application.
The conditions of the first call, eligible costs and aid intensity are described in our article Proof of Concept grants of up to EUR 70,000, and the meaning of TRL 3 and 4 in our guide to TRL levels.
Frequently asked questions about Proof of Concept
What is a Proof of Concept (PoC)?
A Proof of Concept, or proof of an innovative concept, is the step that confirms the feasibility of a technology and shows its potential for market application, before full production or launch.
Why does a PoC matter for funding innovation?
Businesses and EU calls look for clear validation of an innovation. A successful PoC increases the chances of financial support and investment, reveals shortcomings before the product reaches the market and helps allocate resources more efficiently.
Which technology readiness level does a PoC correspond to?
Calls for the PoC phase target SMEs and scientific institutions with projects at technology readiness level TRL 3 and 4.
Is the Proof of Concept call open?
As of 22 October 2026, the first Proof of Concept call, with grants from EUR 26,500 to 70,000, closed on 15 September 2026. The second call is planned for autumn 2026 and has not yet been published.
Do you have an innovative idea but are not sure about its feasibility or potential? Contact us at info@omniasolutions.hr. We will help you check eligibility and prepare the project application.
For the latest information on EU and national calls, follow our LinkedIn profile.
About the author
Davor Nikolić, MSc in Political Science
Co-founder and director of Omnia Solutions. He prepares and implements projects co-financed by EU and national funds, mainly in innovation, entrepreneurship and industry. From 2012 to 2014 he was an advisor in the Cabinet of the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Crafts, and from 2014 to 2018 a senior expert advisor for the implementation, evaluation and contracting of EU business projects at the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Crafts. As a project manager, he has worked on the preparation and implementation of European and international projects with a total value of more than EUR 60 million. Since 2025 he has been an external member of the European Affairs Committee of the Croatian Parliament. He is a doctoral candidate in International Relations at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana.
