Startups aiming to make a lasting positive impact on our environment, economy, and/or society, take note: The EIT Community New European Bauhaus (NEB) has launched the application period for its Catalyse NEB 2026 funding program. The program supports startups from across Europe that integrate sustainability, inclusion, and design into their business models. The application period opened on October 27, 2025, and an information session will be held on November 26. The application deadline is January 19, 2026.
Why participate?
Catalyse NEB helps young companies scale their business and social value simultaneously and become part of one of Europe's most vibrant innovation communities.
The aim is to foster innovations that put the European Green Deal into practice in everyday life: how cities are built, materials are produced, and communities are designed. The program offers young companies access to the EU-wide innovation ecosystem and opens doors to cross-sector partnerships in over 2,000 organizations, 60 innovation hubs, and hundreds of European cities.
Participating startups can expect €22,000 in funding and individually tailored mentoring. They will gain access to workshops on business strategy, communication, and the values of the New European Bauhaus. Furthermore, they will benefit from Europe-wide visibility, participate in EIT-wide events, and establish valuable contacts with investors. The program also provides direct connections to key players in business, research, and politics.
Who can apply?
Startups in the pre-seed, seed, or early Series A phase are eligible to participate.
- which were founded after January 1, 2020,
- are registered in an EU or Horizon Europe country,
- have raised less than one million euros in capital so far
- with at least one founder who actively participates in the program
- and those who are willing to sign a SAFE investment agreement.
Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
- at least €5,000 in revenue in 2024
- at least 10,000 euros in investments
- successful participation in the predecessor program Grow NEB
Eligible sectors include climate, food, manufacturing, mobility, circular economy, creative industries, well-being, and quality of life. Applications, including proof of establishment and the required financial figures, can be submitted online via neb.awardsplatform.com be submitted.
The program is supported by the EIT Community NEB, an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). The EIT is Europe's largest innovation network, connecting over 2,000 partners in all 27 member states. Participants in Catalyse NEB thus benefit not only from funding and mentoring, but also from further financing options, pilot projects in European cities, and long-term visibility within the EU innovation ecosystem. Following the completion of evaluations in spring 2026, the program will officially launch on May 25, 2026.
More information is available here.
