European Prize for Women Innovators

The European Prize for Women Innovators 2026 is jointly awarded by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) and the European Innovation Council (EIC). The prize highlights a broad range of women innovators, offers increased opportunities for trailblazers, and provides inspiring role models for women and girls.

Applicants may apply in only one category, and winners will be selected by an independent expert jury.

Applications open on June 17, 2025.

The award is presented in three categories to women from across the EU and countries associated with the Horizon Europe programme, whose groundbreaking innovations drive positive change for people and the planet.

• EIC Women Innovators: Three prizes of €100,000, €70,000, and €50,000 will be awarded to the top three ranked applications.
• EIC Rising Innovators: Three prizes of €50,000, €30,000, and €20,000 will be awarded to the top three ranked applicants under the age of 35.
• EIT Women Leadership Award: Awarded to outstanding women leaders from the EIT Community. The winner will receive €50,000, and the two runners-up will be awarded €30,000 and €20,000 respectively.

Key information about the European Prize for Women Innovators 2026 — including eligibility criteria, the application process, and other important details — will be shared during an online Info Session on June 24, 2025, from 11:00 to 12:00 CET.

Register for the session via this link

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