In today’s evolving entrepreneurial landscape, many European startups face challenges such as fragmented investment opportunities and limited collaboration between developed and developing regions. The BEYOND project – funded through the European Innovation Ecosystems programme, under Horizon Europe – was created to address these barriers, offering vital support to startups and facilitating access to cross-border investments, ultimately driving growth and innovation.
A comprehensive approach to startup growth
“European startups have immense potential, but navigating the complexities of funding and cross-border investments can be overwhelming.Our goal was to simplify this process and provide startups with the connections and resources they need to succeed globally” says the BEYOND project coordinator, Verica Poposka, Senior Associate at Accelerace VC.
A major achievement of BEYOND was the creation of the Virtual Accelerator Marketplace (VAM), an innovative platform that brought together accelerators and startups to collaborate effectively. Through VAM, over those 2 years, 13 accelerators delivered 64 structured activities, over 2,223 mentoring hours, and 430 investor matchmaking meetings. These efforts helped startups secure €5 million in cross-border funding and create 56 high-skill jobs in underserved regions.
The project’s dedication to inclusivity stood out, with 40% of the supported startups being women-led – double the European average – demonstrating its commitment to fostering a more diverse and equitable innovation landscape.
Partnering with organisations such as FundingBox, Accelerace, ISDI, Innovation Capital, and Overkill Ventures, BEYOND offered customised in-person and online programmes blending expert mentorship, strategic networking, and tailored tools. They brought all the services and methodology together on the OnePass platform which is now run by FundingBox.
BEYOND has redefined how innovation ecosystems operate by uniting regions, empowering startups, and demonstrating the transformative power of collaboration. It sets a strong example for future EU-funded initiatives, proving that a connected and inclusive approach can generate lasting impact across Europe.
Background information
BEYOND project – funded through the European Innovation Ecosystems programme, under Horizon Europe – empowered 274 startups to thrive, with 47 taking part in a transformative joint acceleration program. This initiative sparked a unified pan-European accelerator network and unlocked new opportunities for international early-stage venture capital investments.
With €5 million in cross-border funding secured and 56 high-skill jobs created in underserved regions, BEYOND aimed to make a bold and lasting impact on Europe’s innovation landscape. By uniting 13 business accelerators and delivering 64 dynamic activities, tools, and courses, BEYOND proved that collaboration
Publication date
26 October 2026
Author
European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency
