Européen
28Digital Co-Creation Accelerator 2026-2027
We are launching the EIT-funded Co-Creation Accelerator 2026-2027 a program, looking for world-class digital solutions developed by ventures ranging from early-stage to more mature teams who are looking to validate their digital products and achieve early traction at corporates and/or SMEs as pilot customers or partners. This includes startups that achieved a proof-of-concept or early prototypes, as well as more advanced ventures with validated solutions approaching or already in initial market use. Applicants should demonstrate a clear problem–solution fit or strong validation potential and be ready to leverage the program to address the challenges in collaboration with corporates, SMEs, or cluster organizations.
The Co-Creation Accelerator is a program by 28DIGITAL, designed to bring together startups and industry partners to co-develop solutions addressing real-world challenges. The focus is on:
Validating core technology (TRL 4–5 and above)
Strengthening problem–solution fit
Reducing technical and market uncertainty
Building a clear path toward scalability
The program is built around real industry challenges.
Two ways to apply:
– Open Challenge Track: Apply with your Challenge Partner and jointly define the challenge you want to address in line with the 28DIGITAL strategic domains. When applying to the Open Challenge Track, applicants need to provide, among other topics, a detailed description of the challenge to be solved as well as proof of the Challenge Partner’s commitment (i.e. signed LOI or other supporting documents).
– Industry Challenge Track: We are accepting Industry Track challenges on a rolling basis. These Industry challenges will be published here.
Apply to predefined challenges developed with corporate partners. These reflect concrete industry needs and use cases.
The Co-Creation Accelerator 2026-2027 focuses on digital innovation in three 28DIGITAL strategic domains:
• DeepTech: Breakthrough science-based technologies that shape the future of industry and society, transforming what’s possible in health, mobility, manufacturing, and beyond.
• Strategic Tech: Critical capabilities for security, autonomy, and geopolitical influence, where innovation supports both civil and dual-use applications
• Green & Social Tech: Sustainable technologies that enable the twin digital and green transition, accelerating decarbonization, circularity and social impact.
The maximum funding per project is EUR 250,000. The program covers 100% of eligible costs. Applicants are not required to provide co-funding.
In consideration of the support, an equity granting model is applied whereby 28DIGITAL will be granted equity in the venture.
– Startups provide 3.5–7% equity to 28DIGITAL.
– Formalized through a Share Transfer Agreement.
Expected startups should operate at TRL4-5.
We are looking for early-stage digital startups that:
– Micro or small enterprise (less than 50 employees) according to EU definiton.
– Incorporated and operating in an EU/Horizon Europe or HE associated country.
– Operate at TRL 4–5 and above.
– Are incorporated within the last 5 years.
– Have a minimum of 2 FTEs.
– Possess or control key IP or technology assets.

