Get ready to apply for the 2026 European Prize for Women Innovators
The European Prize for Women Innovators, supported by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), celebrates women entrepreneurs who drive positive change for society and the environment through innovative businesses.
Prize categories
As part of Horizon Europe, UK-based women innovators can compete in the following categories
- EIC Women Innovators – open to women founders and co-founders. The top three applications will be awarded €100,000, €70,000, and €50,000.
- EIC Rising Innovators – open to innovators under the age of 35. The top three applications will be awarded €50,000, €30,000, and €20,000.
- EIT Women Leadership – focused on women with a link to the EIT Community. The top three applications will be awarded €50,000, €30,000, and €20,000.
How to apply
The application period for the 2026 edition opens on 17 June 2025. When it opens, you will be able to submit your application online for each prize category.
Find out more about the European Prize for Women Innovators.
If you are considering entering the competition, you can join an online info session on 24 June 2025 to find out more. During the session, you will
- learn about the application and award procedures for each prize category
- hear from a winner of the 2025 European Prize for Women Innovators
- get tips for preparing prize applications from a former Jury Member
Secure your place at the info session now.
First published 13 June 2025
