20 Oct 2026
EIT launches new call under EIT Higher Education Initiative to turn research into innovation
The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has launched a new call to strengthen the capacity of higher education institutions to turn their research into innovations in manufacturing and deep tech. Launched under the EIT Higher Education Initiative, the call aims to help universities develop innovation and entrepreneurship skills, improve technology transfer services and build stronger links with businesses.
With a budget of €40 million from the EIT, the 2026 Call for proposals will provide up to €1.25 million per selected project over 18 months. The EIT Higher Education Initiative invites consortia of higher education institutions, businesses, research organisations, public bodies and other innovation partners to apply. The call is aligned with EU initiatives, such as the Union of Skills, the STEM Education Strategic Plan, the Competitiveness Compass and the Clean Industrial Deal.
Selected projects will strengthen the capacity of higher education institutions by developing innovation, entrepreneurship and intellectual property skills among students and staff across science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and related fields most relevant to manufacturing and deep tech innovation. They will also improve knowledge sharing, technology transfer and intellectual property management, while building stronger links with industry partners, investors and innovation networks. These links will be supported by the EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs).
Eligible Consortia of higher education institutions, businesses, research organisations, public bodies and other non-academic partners can prepare their applications by consulting the full call text and finding potential partners through the matchmaking platform. The deadline for submitting applications is 13 January 2027, 17:00 CET. Selected projects will be announced later in 2027.
For more information, including eligibility criteria and consortium requirements: