BlockStart is not only about supporting DLT/blockchain-based startups. It is also about promoting a strong collaboration between these and innovative end-user SMEs, willing to implement those solutions. But what can they get from BlockStart?
One of the main objectives of BlockStart is to encourage collaboration between end-user SMEs and potential DLT/blockchain specialists, as technology providers, and to promote knowledge about the benefits and opportunities of these technologies. This collaboration is of upmost importance in the Pilot stage of the acceleration programme, where startups will have the chance to test their solutions together with end-user SMEs.
But what can end-user SMEs get from BlockStart? The 2nd Open Call for SME adopters is still open and will close on the 2nd of November at 5pm CET (Brussels Time). Only SMEs operating in the fields of fintech, ICT and retail are eligible and should apply here. Selected SME adopters will benefit from up to €4,500 equity-free grants.
Eligible SMEs will have the chance to implement DLT/blockchain pilot solutions together with DLT/blockchain startups, that have gone through the 2nd BlockStart Acceleration Programme.
BlockStart is an acceleration programme funded by the European Commission’s Horizon 2020, aiming to support DLT startups to develop blockchain solutions and promote its implementation in SME adopters. 10 end-user SMEs will be invited to participate at the Ideation Kick-off event, a matchmaking event that will be held online on the 26 of November. After that, up to 20 end-user SMEs will be matched with DLT/blockchain startups based on their mutual interest, during the Pilot stage of the programme, to help test and validate the blockchain-based solution. This stage is expected to take place between April and June 2021.
For more information on this Open Call, please contact us through the F6S BlockStart page 
Mor information on end-user SMEs criteria, selections and application process can also be found here: https://www.blockstart.eu/adopters/