28DIGITAL Open Innovation Factory

Overview

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The Open Innovation Factory is 28DIGITAL’s curated matching platform and year-round gateway for high-potential digital and deeptech startups in Europe. Instead of a one-size-fits-all accelerator, it designs bespoke growth pathways: startups submit an expression of interest, are assessed on excellence, impact, and execution, and are then matched to the most relevant opportunity — from EU-funded pilot collaborations and proof-of-concept engagements with corporates to targeted investment calls and innovation services. Corporates can also submit challenges to co-design pilots with startups.

Focus Areas

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• Digital and deeptech startups built on breakthrough scientific or engineering innovation, such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing
• Corporate co-creation and proof-of-concept pilot projects
• EU funding calls and cascade funding schemes
• Market access, mentoring, and targeted investment opportunities

Benefits

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• Tailored matching to EU-funded opportunities, including cascade funding schemes with grants ranging from about EUR 20K to EUR 1M
• Access to a non-dilutive funding pool of over EUR 40M across the ecosystem
• Proof-of-concept and co-creation projects with corporates across Europe
• Mentoring, market access services, and targeted investment calls
• Feedback and continued contact for future opportunities when no immediate match is found

How to Apply

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• Submit an expression of interest through the online form on the Open Innovation Factory page; 28DIGITAL assesses the submission and proposes the most relevant pathway. Applications are open year-round.