28DIGITAL Co-Creation Accelerator

Overview

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The Co-Creation Accelerator 2026-2027 is a 4-month, challenge-driven program by 28DIGITAL, an organization initiated by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). It brings early-stage deep tech startups (TRL 4-5 and above) together with industry partners to validate core technology, strengthen problem-solution fit, and build a path toward scalability. Proposals are accepted continuously throughout 2026-2027 with two cut-off dates; the next cut-off is 8 September 2026 at 17:00 CEST, and accepted proposals start on 16 November 2026.

Focus Areas

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• Open Challenge Track: apply with your own corporate partner and jointly define the challenge to address
• Industry Challenge Track: apply to predefined challenges developed with corporate partners reflecting concrete industry needs
• Validating core technology at TRL 4-5 and above and reducing technical and market uncertainty

Benefits

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• Financial support of up to 250,000 EUR from 28DIGITAL with no co-funding required, in exchange for 3.5-7% equity
• Direct collaboration with industry leaders on their specific challenges
• Fundraising assistance and intensive expert training via the 28DIGITAL Speed Master and MentorMe programs
• Visibility across 28DIGITAL’s European innovation ecosystem of corporates, public sector, investors, and academia

How to Apply

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• Eligible applicants are EU/Horizon Europe-based micro or small enterprises incorporated within the last 5 years, with at least 2 FTEs, key IP or technology assets, and a validated prototype.
• Register your organization in the EU Funding & Tenders portal to obtain a PIC number, register as a 28DIGITAL partner, then submit your proposal through the program’s submission system before the 8 September 2026 cut-off.