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Final Call for EIT Jumpstarter 2025

As we approach the closing date for participants, the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) is paving the way for innovative entrepreneurs throughout Europe to join the EIT Jumpstarter 2025 program. This initiative, which has garnered extensive recognition and accolades, primarily aims to transform groundbreaking ideas into viable businesses under the auspices of the European Union. It particularly highlights the importance of candidates from the Balkans and Mediterranean regions, as well as the EU's Outermost Regions.

The EIT Jumpstarter provides not only a remarkable opportunity but also a financial backing amounting to €150,000 along with bespoke support aimed at ensuring that innovative concepts are refined and ready for market launch. The urgency for applications is palpable, as the deadline for submissions is set for April 2, 2025. Candidates who wish to seize this transformative experience must apply via the official EIT Jumpstarter website (eitjumpstarter.eu).

The success of the previous eight editions of the program is evident in its impressive track record. More than 1,300 entrepreneurs have honed their skills through this pre-accelerator, which has propelled a staggering 124 startups into existence, generating over 2,600 jobs across various sectors. These startups have collectively raised approximately €150 million in external investment, demonstrating an exceptional return on investment where every €1 spent yielded an impressive €30 in revenue.

Tina Benda of EIT RawMaterials emphasizes that the EIT Jumpstarter serves as an ideal platform for validating innovative ideas while exploring the commercialization of research products. This year, the program distinctly promotes the inclusion of innovators from the Mediterranean and the Outermost Regions of the EU. Notable examples of these territories include Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Réunion, Martinique, Mayotte, and Saint-Martin (France), as well as the Azores and Madeira (Portugal) and the Canary Islands (Spain). These regions have the added advantage of competing for extra awards upon success, ensuring that their unique talents are recognized.

Additionally, aspiring innovators from North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina are strongly encouraged to submit their applications, as tailored opportunities await them.

What’s Next?

Participants can apply in various categories including Agricultural Technology, Healthcare, Advanced Sustainable Manufacturing, Renewable Energy, Smart Cities, New European Bauhaus, Rebuilding Ukraine, and Metals, Minerals, and Industrial Chains. Each of these categories is crucial for addressing modern societal and environmental challenges, and candidates can submit their proposals until April 2, 2025, through the EIT Jumpstarter page.

A total of 190 teams will be meticulously selected to engage in online workshops and presentation days, aimed at refining their business plans and preparing their startups for registration. The competition escalates in November 2025, where 48 teams will present their innovative solutions for prizes and invaluable exposure within EIT's expansive network of innovators across Europe.

The EIT is committed to enhancing Europe's innovative capacity by tackling global challenges and nurturing entrepreneurial talent, contributing to sustainable growth and the creation of qualified jobs continent-wide. As an integral component of the EU’s Horizon Europe initiative, it underscores the paramount importance of research and innovation in contemporary society. The EIT Jumpstarter serves as a shining beacon for entrepreneurs aiming to make a substantial impact in their communities and beyond, incentivizing creativity and forward thinking across Europe’s diverse landscapes.