Up to €100,000 for Women Entrepreneurs & Innovators – European Prize for Women Innovators 2027

The European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) are offering cash prizes of up to €100,000 to recognise women entrepreneurs developing groundbreaking innovations across Europe.

The programme celebrates women founders whose businesses are making a positive impact on society, the economy and the environment.

Here's what you can expect:

• Up to €100,000 in cash prizes

• Nine prizes across three award categories

• Recognition across Europe's innovation ecosystem

• Opportunities to increase business visibility

• Connections with European innovation networks

• Recognition for entrepreneurial leadership and impact

What prizes are available?

1. Women Innovators – Up to €100,000

For women founders and co-founders developing breakthrough innovations.

• 🥇 First Prize: €100,000

• 🥈 Second Prize: €70,000

• 🥉 Third Prize: €50,000

2. Rising Innovators – Up to €50,000

For promising women innovators under the age of 35.

• 🥇 First Prize: €50,000

• 🥈 Second Prize: €30,000

• 🥉 Third Prize: €20,000

3. EIT Women Leadership – Up to €50,000

For eligible women leaders within the EIT Community.

• 🥇 First Prize: €50,000

• 🥈 Second Prize: €30,000

• 🥉 Third Prize: €20,000

What types of innovations are recognised?

Innovations may include:

• Artificial intelligence and digital technology

• Healthcare and life sciences

• Climate and sustainability solutions

• Engineering and deep technology

• Education and social innovation

• Other breakthrough products, services and technologies

Who can apply?

Depending on the category, eligible applicants include:

• Women founders and co-founders of innovative businesses

• Women entrepreneurs based in EU Member States or eligible Horizon Europe Associated Countries

• Young women innovators under 35

• Eligible women leaders within the EIT Community

UK-based applicants may also be eligible under Horizon Europe's associated-country arrangements.

Applicants must meet the relevant category's official Rules of Contest, including requirements relating to their business, innovation and achievements.

How are applications assessed?

Applicants are evaluated on:

• Breakthrough innovation: The originality and significance of their innovation

• Impact: The positive results their work has achieved

• Inspiration: Their leadership and ability to inspire future innovators

Funding: €20,000–€100,000 in cash prizes

Applications Opened: 2 September 2026

Application Deadline: 1 December 2026 at 17:00 CET

Applicants can access the three separate application categories through the official announcement.