The transformation of the energy industry is opening up avenues in areas as diverse as renewables, smart systems, energy efficiency, storage and mobility – all of which adds up to a massive opportunity to boost innovation in Europe and bring new technologies to market.Running from 2014 to 2020 and with a budget of nearly €80 billion, Horizon 2020 is the new EU research support programme. With the first calls for proposals launched in January, SMEs can now apply to Horizon 2020 to obtain European funding to help launch their projects.EDF’s ambition is to help SMEs better understand EU decision-making and procedures, while bringing EU institution representatives insights into the ideas and experiences of start-ups, and the challenges and opportunities that matter most to them.EDF is an active player in energy venture capital, helping start-ups to develop their ideas and access new markets. As a major European industrial player which is also deeply implanted in local and regional communities and economies, EDF has a major role to playin fostering dialogue between energy SMEs and EU decision-makers.EDF is hosting a debate in which 3 young companies with exciting energy projects will tell their stories, challenging EU representatives to respond with advice, comments and questions.SPEAKERSJean-David MALO, Head of Unit - SMEs, Financial engineering - DG R&I, European CommissionFrançois-Xavier TESTARD-VAILLANT, EDF R&DNicolas CHAUDRON, Partner, Idinvest PartnersJean-Claude BARRE, President and founder, AltilumAlexandre SAUVAGE, CEO and owner, LeosphereChristian VON OLSHAUSEN, CTO, Sunfire GmbH