EIT opens €40 million call for university innovation projects
Selected projects can receive up to €1.25 million over 18 months, with applications due by 13 January 2027.
The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has opened a €40 million funding call for 2026 to help higher education institutions commercialise research in manufacturing and deep tech. Applications must be submitted by 17:00 (CET) on 13 January 2027.
Through its Higher Education Initiative, the EIT aims to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation skills among university students and staff, particularly in STEM, manufacturing and deep tech. Selected projects can receive funding of up to €1.25 million each for an 18-month period.
Applicants must form consortia with at least five funded partners. These must include three or more higher education institutions across three different countries eligible for Horizon Europe, with at least one in an EU member state. At least two partners must be businesses, industry participants or organisations representing them. The call particularly encourages participation by businesses working in manufacturing or deep-tech technologies.
The EIT said the projects would support research commercialisation, intellectual property management and knowledge-sharing. Its Knowledge and Innovation Communities will help universities develop closer ties with businesses, investors and start-ups. EIT director Martin Kern said the call would provide students, researchers and university staff with support to turn research breakthroughs into businesses. The selected projects will be announced later in 2027.
