Attention startups wanting to drive sustainable positive change in our environment, economy, and/or society: The EIT-Community New European Bauhaus (NEB) has launched the application round for its Catalyse NEB 2026 funding program. The program supports startups from across Europe that combine sustainability, inclusion, and design in their business models. The application phase has been running since October 27, 2025, with an info session scheduled for November 26. The application deadline is January 19, 2026.
Why participate?
Catalyse NEB helps young companies scale business and social value simultaneously and become part of one of Europe’s most vibrant innovation communities.
The goal is to foster innovations that implement the European Green Deal in everyday life: how cities are built, materials are produced, and communities are shaped. The program provides young companies with entry into the EU-wide innovation ecosystem and opens doors to cross-sector partnerships within over 2,000 organizations, 60 innovation hubs, and hundreds of European cities.
Participating startups receive €22,000 in funding and individually tailored mentoring. They gain access to workshops on business strategy, communication, and the values of the New European Bauhaus. Furthermore, they benefit from Europe-wide visibility, participate in EIT-wide events, and can build valuable connections with investors. The program also opens direct connections to key players from business, research, and politics.
Who can apply?
Eligible startups are in the pre-seed, seed, or early series A phase,
- founded after January 1, 2020,
- registered in an EU or Horizon Europe country,
- that have raised less than one million euros in capital so far,
- with at least one founder actively participating in the program
- and 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 in investments
- successful participation in the predecessor program Grow NEB
Eligible sectors include climate, food, manufacturing, mobility, circular economy, creative industries, wellbeing, and quality of life. Applications, including evidence of founding and required financial figures, can be submitted online at neb.awardsplatform.com.
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 across all 27 member states. Participants in Catalyse NEB benefit not only from funding and mentoring but also from further financing options, pilot projects in European cities, and long-term visibility in the EU innovation ecosystem. After evaluations conclude in spring 2026, the program officially launches on May 25, 2026.
More information is available here.
