Are you considering applying to Incubator? Confused about the process? Please read the Incubator 2021 page and the related call. If you still have questions, we hope the FAQ below will help.
If you don't find the answer to your question, send a message to Kasia, our Capacity Building Manager at kasia.skowron@encc.eu.
For full details on the Incubator programme and process, start by reading this page and downloading the Call for Applications 2021.To apply for Incubator, go here.
> Is Incubator only for ENCC members?
No, it is open to all. ENCC members are prioritary, but non-members are very welcome to apply. Participation in the programme is fully covered for ENCC members (including members of members, please see list here). If you are not a member and your project is selected, your costs on Gran Canaria Island will also be covered, upon payment of a small registration fee (see below). On the other hand, travel to and from the consultancy retreat will not be covered.
> Which are the eligible countries?
Eligibility varies according to funding programme criteria, please check below:
> How long will I need to be away from work?
3 full days (excluding travel).
> What kinds of projects are not right for Incubator?
- Projects not linked to social and cultural concerns
- Projects only between 2 partners and not open to others
- Projects in their very initial state of preparation
- Projects that will not contribute to more cohesive and inclusive societies, promote common European values, foster participation and social integration, enhance intercultural understanding and a sense of belonging to a community, prevent violent radicalisation, or will not really benefit from the international dimension
- Project that do not correspond to European funding criteria
> How many partners will I need?
Projects should bring together at least 3 partners from 3 different EU member countries.
> Which are the targeted European funding programmes?
Incubator provides expertise on projects related to the following programmes: Creative Europe, Erasmus plus, Erasmus for Entrepreneurship, Interreg, CERV (previous Europe for Citizens).
> Can I apply if my organisation has no previous experience with European funding?
Yes, but you need to explain how your project will contribute to more cohesive and inclusive societies, promote common European values, foster participation and social integration, enhance intercultural understanding and a sense of belonging to a community, prevent violent radicalisation... and how the international dimension will contribute to your project.
> Do you accept applications from the UK?
Unfortunately, the answer is no, considering that UK applicants will not be able to apply for calls in the framework of the 2021-2027 programme.
> Should I apply for Incubator if I don't have time to work on my project between now and June?
No. Selected applicants will only have about 2 months to develop their project and identify their partners, so they need to have time to spend on that before the intensive workshop in June.
> What languages will be used in the Incubator programme?
English is the working language. However, this year's trainers also speak Spanish.
> What kind of follow-up can I expect from Incubator? Will you read and edit my application?
After deciding which funding programme you will apply to, you will have a final 1-hour virtual meeting with your trainer. It is between you and the trainer to agree how you will prepare this meeting and which aspects will be discussed. Please note that trainers will not work on writing or editing your application.
> Where can I read more?
To understand the Incubator programme and process, please start by reading this page and downloading the full Call for Applications. To apply for Incubator, go here.
> Can I apply to Incubator with a project that was not selected last year?
Yes, you can.
> What about COVID-19 related issues?
Please note that the meeting is scheduled to take place on Gran Canaria Island, in Spain, but will take place physically only if the health situation continues to be very good locally. So far, the Canary Islands have the lowest incidence rate in Spain, according to the 14-day cumulative number per 100,000 inhabitants. Airlines have maintained reduced but regular flights. The ENCC and local partner Ayuntamiento de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will monitor the situation and will apply all national measures in place to protect participants during the duration of the Incubator programme. Covid-19 safety procedures will be the highest priority during the meeting, study visits and when selecting accommodation and catering for participants.
We will adapt to the situation as it evolves, either adopting a hybrid format or going completely online if necessary. Participants will be informed about any changes as soon as possible.
You can find updated information about travel on the website of the Spanish Ministry of Social Affairs.
> Can I participate virtually in the training?
Due to Covid-related possible restrictions, it is possible to participate in the consultancy retreat virtually (if travel to Spain is difficult or uncomfortable for you due to the health crisis, there is also the option to join online). In this case, participants should arrange to be present for the whole duration of the event, with a stable internet connection and the necessary equipment for making their participation and interaction with others as smooth as possible.
> Do you plan to organize additional study visits to cultural organizations in the Canary Islands before or after the training?
Yes, Ayuntamiento de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will organize an additional cultural programme in the weekend following the Incubator meeting. Participation in these activities is highly recommended but not obligatory. The ENCC cannot cover additional costs such as accommodation and catering related to a prolonged stay.
