The European innovation network EIT Digital has announced the EIT Digital Challenge 2017. It is seeking startups that have already successfully launched their technology on the market and are looking to expand internationally. The winners in five technology categories will each receive a prize package worth €100,000. Among the winners in recent years are the Munich-based startups. KONUX and ProGloveThe application deadline is October 8, 2017.
EIT Digital has announced the fourth Europe-wide EIT Digital Challenge 2017 competition. Startups in the scaling phase – so-called scaleups – can apply in five categories: Digital Industry, Digital Cities, Digital Wellbeing, Digital Infrastructure and Digital Finance. The winner of each category will receive a prize package worth 100,000 euros, consisting of a full year of growth support from the EIT Digital Accelerator and a cash prize of 50,000 euros.
The competition specializes in deep-tech solutions – highly complex technologies based on scientific research or technical innovations that can fuel digital transformation.
“Deep-tech companies need qualified and specialized support to attract customers and investors,”
says the CEO of EIT Digital, Willem Jonker.
“Through our pan-European business and technology network, supported by our experience and proven track record, we are uniquely positioned to support deep-tech companies in their international growth.”
Participation criteria
To be successful, scaleups must be headquartered within the EU and have a minimum turnover of €300,000 in 2016 or have already received funding of at least €2 million. They must also be no older than 10 years. The top five applicants in each category will be invited to present their technology to a jury of experts. The final round of the EIT Digital Challenge 2017 will take place in five European cities starting at the end of November:
Digital Cities – Trento, Italy – November 28, 2017
Digital Industry – Eindhoven, Netherlands – November 29, 2017
Digital Wellbeing – Madrid, Spain – November 30, 2017
Digital Finance – Budapest, Hungary – December 4, 2017
Digital Infrastructure – Berlin, Germany – December 11, 2017
The application deadline is October 8, 2017.
Munich startups are among former winners
Since 2014, the EIT Digital Challenge has attracted more than 1,400 applicants from 27 EU member states. The award-winning scaleups have grown into successful international companies. In recent years, KONUX (2014) and ProGlove (2016) two Munich representatives also prevailed.
