€75,000 in Equity-Free Funding for Women-Led Deep-Tech Startups – Women TechEU

Women TechEU is offering €75,000 in non-dilutive grant funding to early-stage, women-led deep-tech startups across Europe, including eligible businesses registered in the United Kingdom.

Funded by the European Union, the programme aims to help women entrepreneurs develop groundbreaking technologies, strengthen their businesses and access investment opportunities.

Here's what you can expect:

• €75,000 in equity-free grant funding per startup

• €12 million available across the 2026–2028 programme

• Funding for 160 startups, with 40 selected per full proposal deadline

• Personalised business development support

• One-to-one mentoring and expert coaching

• Support with innovation strategy and commercialisation

• Guidance on fundraising and investment readiness

• Opportunities to connect with investors and corporate partners

• Access to European innovation networks and events

• Support with preparing for future European Innovation Council funding opportunities

What types of startups can be funded?

Women TechEU welcomes innovations across deep-tech sectors, including:

• Artificial Intelligence: Developing advanced AI technologies and systems

• Biotechnology: Advancing scientific discoveries and biological technologies

• Robotics: Developing autonomous systems and innovative robotics solutions

• Clean Energy: Creating advanced renewable energy and sustainability technologies

• Advanced Manufacturing: Developing innovative industrial processes and materials

• Quantum Technologies: Advancing quantum computing, sensing and related technologies

• Space Technology: Developing innovations for aerospace and space applications

• Advanced Digital Technologies: Creating new connectivity, sensing and digital systems

Startups must demonstrate genuine scientific or engineering innovation rather than simply using existing technology.

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Women-led deep-tech startups

• Registered early-stage technology businesses

• Startups based in EU Member States

• Startups registered in eligible Horizon Europe Associated Countries, including the UK

• University spinouts meeting the programme's requirements

Important eligibility requirements:

Applicants must:

• Be registered for at least six months but no more than five years at the relevant eligibility cut-off.

• Have a woman founder or co-founder in a senior leadership position, such as CEO, CTO or equivalent.

• Have at least 25% of company shares collectively owned by women.

• Have raised less than €1 million in equity investment.

• Be developing technology at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4–6.

• Be an autonomous small or medium-sized enterprise (SME).

• Have a registered commercial business with a separate legal identity.

• Not have previously received funding through Women TechEU or the EIC Accelerator.

Important: Sole traders, unregistered business ideas, NGOs and foundations are not eligible.

How does the application process work?

Stage 1 – Eligibility Assessment

Applicants complete the online eligibility form to confirm that their startup meets the programme's requirements.

Eligibility applications are accepted continuously, with cut-offs every Tuesday at 17:00 Brussels time.

Stage 2 – Eligibility Confirmation

Applicants normally receive an eligibility decision within one week of the relevant cut-off.

Eligible businesses receive access to the full application form.

Stage 3 – Full Proposal

Applicants submit their business proposal, innovation details and supporting information for evaluation.

Stage 4 – Selection & Funding

Successful startups receive €75,000 in grant funding and participate in a tailored business development programme.

Funding: €75,000 per selected startup – non-dilutive grant

Application Status: OPEN NOW

Next Full Proposal Deadline: 14 January 2027 at 17:00 CET (Brussels time)