"Open Innovation Factory 2023": a call to action for Europe’s early-stage deep tech startups

European innovators looking for support to boost their digital venture will soon have access to a new, exciting opportunity.

On March 31, EIT Digital will open applications to its "Open Innovation Factory 2023" programme, offering early-stage deep tech startups a unique chance to accelerate their growth and attract investment.

Focusing on five key areas - Digital Tech, Digital Industry, Digital Cities, Digital Wellbeing, and Digital Finance - the programme is set to propel innovation within the European digital ecosystem.

In addition to financial support of up to 400,000 euros from EIT Digital, selected applicants will receive assistance in attracting follow-up investors and customers, mentoring and coaching by seasoned industry experts and access to a pan-European ecosystem of over 350 partners from businesses, research institutions, investors, and the public sector.

An overview of the objectives of the Open Innovation Factory as well as concrete advice on the ingredients of a successful proposal, will be offered by the EIT Digital management in the Information Session scheduled for April 5, 2023 (free registration required).

"At EIT Digital, we are thrilled to present the Open Innovation Factory 2023 programme and we encourage every ambitious entrepreneur in the deep tech space to apply. Let's work together and create lasting impact in the digital landscape," says Diva Tommei, CIEO/CMO of EIT Digital.

Success stories from previous editions include Rentall, a smart renting platform which signed deals in Spain with well-known brands such as Carrefour Spain and Leroy Merlin, Greenhabit, a startup that uses gamification to help people stick to their rehabilitation programmes, Snowpack, which has developed a solution that enables secure communication over telecom networks, and several more.

The Open Innovation Factory 2023 programme will accept proposals on a rolling basis throughout the year, with two predefined cut-off dates. The first deadline for applications is scheduled for May 15, 2023.