Open Horizons, a Horizon Europe funded initiative designed to elevate women-led deep tech startups, has officially opened its Second Open Call. It offers up to €55,000 in equity-free funding, strategic mentoring, and the chance to co-develop pilot projects with leading European corporates.
What selected startups will receive:
- Up to €55,000 in equity-free funding (Inception + Pilot Phase)
- Tailored mentoring and training from industry and innovation experts
- Opportunities to co-design and test paid pilot projects with major European corporates
- Visibility and support to accelerate market entry and scale
- Access to a European network dedicated to advancing women in deep tech
Who can apply?
To be eligible, startups must:
- Be based in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe-associated country,
- Operate in deep tech or digital innovation,
- Be a women-led startup (Founder or Co-founder in a top management position), with all women cumulatively holding ≥25% ownership.
- Be in inception or early-growth stage,
- Propose a solution to one of 17 challenges submitted by corporate partners.