Alleco Oy to recive financing for developing the world’s first underwater tablet computer within the framework of SME Instrument Phase 2 project

Invent Baltics consultants supported Finnish company Alleco Oy in preparing a successful SME Instrument Phase 2 project proposal to the European Commission Horizon 2020 research and innovation funding program. The project with a total budget of €1.2 million was the highest scoring proposal under the Open Disruptive Innovation (ICT) topic.

Alleco is developing the world’s first tablet computer with a fully functional touchscreen that works under water. The proposed outcome of the project will be an ICT solution for professional divers - ranging from scientists, military and fire&rescue to dive instructors. The innovation will disrupt the market for diving equipment and decrease the costs of an average diving project by more than 50%. On a longer time scale, additional market segments include offshore oil&gas, the mining industry, as well as the medical industry. In these areas electronic devices that are dust- and water proof, easy to clean, as well able to operate in explosive prone areas, are in high demand, but short supply.

SME Instrument is a dedicated funding instrument under the Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation programme that supports innovative SMEs in Europe. The instrument aims to fill the gaps in funding for research and innovation at early stages and thereby accelerate the exploitation of novel solutions to address key societal challenges. Applications are expected in various topics and companies can apply for funding as single applicants or with partners. Subcontracting is allowed both in phase 1 and phase 2 projects.

The SME Instrument phase 1 funding supports SMEs to cover the funding for initial feasibility assessment and business modelling for the novelty. Phase 2 funding is targeted to SMEs with particular focus on product development, demonstration activities and market replication.

The next cut-off dates for phase 1 are November 9 and February 15 (2017). The next phase 2 deadlines are October 13, January 18 (2017) and April 6 (2017). Invent Baltics OÜ provides initial consultancy regarding funding opportunities within the Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation programme free of charge.  

More info:
Silver Toomla
silver.toomla@invent.ee
+372 51 71 781