2026 European Prize for Women Innovators now open for applications!

Wednesday 18 June 2025

The European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) have unveiled the 2026 edition of the European Prize for Women Innovators.

This joint initiative supports women entrepreneurs whose innovations create real impact – whether it is tackling climate change, improving healthcare, or reshaping the digital economy. Each year, more than 200 women apply from across Europe and beyond. Nine prizes are awarded in three categories, with a top award of €100,000.

Prize categories

EIC Women Innovators category: open to women founders and co-founders from the EU and associated countries. Three prizes of €100,000, €70,000 and €50 000 are awarded to the three highest-ranked applications.

EIC Rising Innovators category: targeting promising innovators under the age of 35. Three prizes of €50,000, €30,000 and €20,000 are awarded to the three highest-ranked applications.

EIT Women Leadership category: focused on women with a direct link to the EIT Community. Three prizes of €50,000, €30,000 and €20,000 are awarded to the three highest-ranked applications.

Key dates

Online info session: June 24, 2025 (from 11am to 12pm CEST) – Register here

Application deadline: September 25, 2025 – 5pm CEST

How to apply

If you meet the criteria outlined in the Rules of the Contest, submit your application through the Funding & Tender Opportunities portal for each prize category:

EIC Women Innovators category

EIC Rising Innovators category

EIT Women Leadership category

Celebrating inspiring women across Europe

The European Prize for Women Innovators highlights the pivotal role women play in driving innovation. By showcasing their success, the prize inspires girls and women everywhere and demonstrates the importance of inclusivity in technology and business. Get to know the last edition’s winners and their groundbreaking innovations.

Empowering women in tech and business

Systemic barriers still hinder women's advancement in technology and business sectors. The EIT and the EIC are committed to breaking these barriers and promoting women's empowerment. Recognising their indispensable role in creating a better future is just a small part of what the EIC and EIT do to help women in business and tech.