News
July 14, 2026
The selected teams will join one of the programme’s thematic cohorts, each powered by leading EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities. This year’s cohort includes 30 participants in each of the following categories:
In addition, 12 teams have been selected for a thematic agnostic category dedicated to supporting Maltese startups and innovations, powered by EIT Communities together with Xjenza Malta.
EIT Jumpstarter is a European pre-acceleration programme designed to support early-stage innovators in turning promising ideas into startup-ready business concepts. Through hands-on entrepreneurial training, tailored mentoring, and expert guidance, participants learn how to validate their ideas, develop a robust business model, and prepare for the next stages of their startup journey.
The programme primarily targets innovators from countries participating in the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme (EIT RIS), while also providing dedicated recognition and support for innovators from the EU Outermost Regions, the Western Balkans and Ukraine.
“EIT Jumpstarter is the perfect environment to validate an innovative idea and determine whether it can grow into a viable product or service. The 2026 edition also offers stronger alignment with European innovation priorities, helping participants progress towards investment readiness. Participants join a supportive community, benefit from expert mentoring and gain the entrepreneurial mindset needed to build and scale a startup. The renewed programme design empowers innovators to move faster, focus on market fit and confidently transform early-stage ideas into scalable ventures,” said Adam Strzelecki, — EIT Jumpstarter Programme Lead.
Over the coming months, the selected teams will take part in an intensive learning journey focused on idea validation, customer discovery, business modelling, pitching, and market readiness. Working closely with experienced trainers, mentors and industry experts, participants will refine their solutions and strengthen their entrepreneurial capabilities.
Since its launch, EIT Jumpstarter has trained more than 1,500 innovators, supported the creation of over 150 startups, generated more than 2,600 jobs, and helped young companies attract over €150 million in investment. These results demonstrate the programme’s growing impact in strengthening Europe’s early-stage innovation ecosystem and creating opportunities for innovators in emerging regions.
With the 2026 cohort now selected, EIT Jumpstarter continues its mission to unlock entrepreneurial talent, support science-based innovation, and help build the next generation of European startups.
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