EIT Jumpstarter 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 edition of EIT Jumpstarter!

The programme supports early-stage innovators in transforming science-based ideas into viable start-ups through training, mentoring, and a structured entrepreneurial journey that culminates in an international pitch competition.

Participants have the opportunity to compete for over €240 000 in financial support, including prizes of €10 000, €5 000 and €3 000 for the top teams in each thematic cohort. In addition, special prizes of €2 500 will recognise the best projects from the EU Outermost Regions, the Western Balkans and Ukraine, as well as solutions aligned with the New European Bauhaus initiative. Beyond financial support, participants receive more than 55 hours of entrepreneurial training, expert mentoring, professional pitch development and access to the EIT’s pan-European innovation network.

EIT Jumpstarter is the perfect environment to validate an innovative idea and determine whether it can grow into a viable product or service. The 2026 edition offers also stronger alignment with European innovation priorities, to progress towards investment readiness. Participants join a supportive community, benefit from expert mentoring and gain the entrepreneurial mindset needed to build and scale a start-up. The renewed programme design empowers innovators to move faster, focus on market fit and confidently transform early-stage ideas into scalable ventures.

Adam Strzelecki, EIT Jumpstarter Programme Lead

EIT Jumpstarter primarily targets innovators from countries participating in the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme (EIT RIS), while also providing dedicated recognition for innovators from the EU Outermost Regions, the Western Balkans and Ukraine.

Eligible Thematic Areas

Participants will develop their ideas within one of six thematic cohorts aligned with Europe’s key innovation priorities:

• Food & Agritech (EIT Food)
• Healthcare (EIT Health)
• Energy & Renewables (InnoEnergy)
• Advanced & Green Manufacturing (EIT Manufacturing)
• Metals, Minerals, Advanced Materials & Industrial Side Streams (EIT RawMaterials)
• Smart Cities & Urban Mobility (EIT Urban Mobility)

A special cohort dedicated to entrepreneurial talent from Malta, powered by EIT Community and Xjenza Malta, will also be featured in this year’s edition.