Innovation Funding Consultant (100%)
Our client is a leading deeptech innovation funding advisory firm specializing in Horizon Europe instruments. Recognized as the #1 performer in the EIC Accelerator programme, they are sustaining success rates equal top5x the market average through a unique, high-performance methodology. They are a remote-first, high-performance team dedicated to deeptech and scientific innovation.
Role Overview
You will be the strategic architect behind winning EIC Accelerator proposals. Operating in a high-impact duo with a Lead Writer, you own the "investment case" and the overall strategic direction of the application. Your role is ~80% dedicated to building the strategic narrative, complex financial models, and high-stakes pitch decks. The remaining ~20% involves intensive deep-tech guidance and founder coaching to prepare clients for the European Commission jury and the rigors of the EIC Accelerator, Transition, Pathfinder, and Innovation Fund programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Storytelling: Own the innovation narrative, crafting compelling pitch decks and video scripts that translate breakthrough science into commercial impact.
- Founder Coaching: Lead sessions of intensive interview coaching, challenging founders to refine their vision and pitch performance.
- Financial & Commercial Acumen: Construct robust business cases, including budgeting, forecasting, and TRL/market-entry roadmaps.
- Project Leadership: Lead the full lifecycle of client management and proposal development, ensuring a premium service experience.
- Portfolio Excellence: Participate in the rigorous vetting of startups to maintain the company #1 ranking in funded cases.
- Collaboration: Work seamlessly with internal teams and external stakeholders to gather technical know-how and validate project details.
- Knowledge Leadership: Act as a mentor to junior team members and stay ahead of trends in the EU funding landscape.
Candidate Profile
- Education: PhD (highly preferred) or MSc in Physics, Quantum Technology, AI/Data Science, or Cleantech/Energy.
- Deep Expertise: 3-5+ years of success in strategic advising for Horizon Europe/H2020; prior exposure to the EIC Accelerator is a major asset.
- Writing Excellence: Exceptional technical and business writing skills in English. You must simplify the complex without losing scientific rigor.
- Business Literacy: Proficiency in VC-level fundamentals (budgeting, financial analysis, and commercial viability).
- The "Challenger" Mindset & Soft Skills: You possess the editorial leadership and human-centric approach to coach CEOs through the rigors of the EIC process while adhering to strict deadlines. You maintain a resilient, positive, and team-oriented attitude, thriving in a high-performance remote setting.
What’s On Offer
- Work with the #1 performing consultancy in the European deep-tech funding space.
- A remote-first culture offering a high degree of autonomy and flexibility.
- Competitive compensation: A project-based model with aggressive success fees (e.g., ~€12,000 per funded project).
How to Apply Apply via our website with your CV and a cover letter. Tell us about your track record with high-stakes proposals and your experience coaching deep-tech founders.