The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has announced a funding allocation package of €978 million for the period 2026–2028
The investment will enhance innovation, entrepreneurship, and skills development across Europe, further solidifying the EIT’s position as the largest innovation ecosystem on the continent.
Funding allocation: Record investment for innovation areas
This is the EIT’s most significant financial commitment to date, supporting six Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) and several joint initiatives. The funding allocation is based on the strong performance of these communities and their alignment with key European Union policy priorities, such as the European Skills Agenda and the Clean Industrial Deal.
The six KICs to receive dedicated funding are focused on some of Europe’s most pressing challenges, including healthcare, sustainable food systems, urban mobility, and the creative industries.
These partnerships bring together universities, research institutes, startups, and major corporations to develop solutions that drive economic growth and have a positive social impact.
The funding breakdown for the six KICs is as follows:
- EIT Urban Mobility: €206.9 million
- EIT Manufacturing: €163.2 million
- EIT Food: €125.3 million
- EIT Culture & Creativity: €131.6 million
- EIT Raw Materials: €74.8 million
- EIT Health: €67.3 million
Cross-sector collaboration and innovation
In addition to direct funding to KICs, €79.3 million will be allocated to cross-KIC activities. These projects involve collaboration between both funded and financially autonomous KICs, such as EIT Climate-KIC, EIT Digital, and InnoEnergy. These joint efforts aim to amplify their impact by bridging sectors, enabling initiatives such as entrepreneurial education, support for women in innovation, and the development of AI and STEM skills.
This cross-KIC approach is designed to break down silos, foster synergies, and accelerate the translation of research into real-world applications. It also supports international cooperation, opening the door for European innovators to expand their reach beyond EU borders.
Universities as innovation hubs
A significant portion of the funding allocation, €130 million, will be allocated to the EIT Higher Education Initiative. This programme is designed to enhance the innovation and entrepreneurial capacity of universities across Europe. Since its inception, the initiative has involved over 600 higher education institutions. It has helped thousands of students, researchers, and staff members acquire entrepreneurial skills and turn innovative ideas into market-ready solutions.
Designed to support the EU’s STEM education goals and university alliance strategies, the initiative acts as a critical bridge between academia and the innovation economy. It complements other major EU programmes, such as Erasmus, by offering more targeted support for skills development and technology transfer.
Driving competitiveness through innovation
This investment reflects the EIT’s long-term vision to build a more competitive and resilient Europe. By supporting ecosystems that effectively link research, industry, and entrepreneurship, the EIT aims to power the development of future technologies, nurture entrepreneurial talent, and support the creation of sustainable businesses.
With this funding round, the EIT is not only investing in innovation but also in Europe’s ability to lead in global markets, strengthen its industrial base, and uphold shared values through technology and education.
