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European Institute of Innovation and Technology

European Prize for Women Innovators

Awards women founders and co-founders across three prize categories, from EUR 20,000 up to EUR 100,000, for leading breakthrough European innovations.

Applications are judged on three named criteria: breakthrough innovation, meaning the company or organisation is pioneering disruptive work, often in deep-tech or STEM fields; impact, meaning the innovation addresses a real need with meaningful benefit to people or the planet; and inspiration, meaning the applicant has played a pivotal, personal role in the company's success and can act as a role …

The prize looks for women entrepreneurs whose companies or organisations are pioneering breakthrough, disruptive innovation, often in deep-tech and STEM fields, within the EU or a Horizon Europe associated country. It runs three tracks: established women innovators, 'Rising Innovators' founders under 35, and women leaders from the EIT Community.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.1 Dec 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.-
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Prize
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.-

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