Co-Creation Accelerator 2026-2027

The Co-Creation Accelerator 2026–2027 is a specialized, challenge-driven initiative launched by 28DIGITAL (formerly known as EIT Digital, a prominent European Union innovation and technology engine).

Unlike traditional general-purpose incubators, this program is designed specifically to bridge the gap between early-stage deep-tech startups and major industrial players. The objective is to co-develop, test, and scale functional digital solutions to tackle real-world industrial pain points over a structured 4-month project timeline.

The accelerator leverages cascade funding and EIT’s expansive innovation network to de-risk technology validation.

• Up to €250,000 in Funding: Selected ventures receive up to €250,000 to fund the engineering and operational runway of the co-creation project, with no co-funding required.

• The Equity Model: Rather than a simple grant, this is an equity-based program. 28DIGITAL takes a 3.5% to 7% equity stake in the business via a formal Share Transfer Agreement.

• Direct Corporate Matchmaking: Startups work hand-in-hand with industry leaders, utilizing corporate facilities, data, or sandboxes as direct pilot customers.

• Masterclass & Mentorship Access: Founders secure dedicated placement in the 28DIGITAL Speed Master and MentorMe programs for intensive commercial and product scaling support.

Startups can enter the co-creation pipeline through one of two distinct structural routes:

1. The Open Challenge Track: You apply alongside an already established corporate partner of your choosing. Together, you jointly define a custom deep-tech challenge to build and validate over the 4-month cycle.

2. The Industry Challenge Track: You apply directly to solve predefined challenges created and published by 28DIGITAL's active network of corporate partners.

The evaluation panel enforces precise technical and legal boundaries. This program is not suitable for idea-stage concepts.

1. Organizational & Legal Criteria

• Company Status: Must qualify as a micro or small enterprise (fewer than 50 employees) under official EU definitions.

• Incorporation Window: Must have been legally incorporated within the last five years.

• Geographic Base: Must be incorporated and actively operating within an EU Member State, Horizon Europe country, or HE-associated nation.

• Team Size: The venture must have a minimum of two full-time equivalent (FTE) employees.

2. Technological Readiness & Assets

• TRL 4–5 Baseline: The core technology must operate at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or 5 and above.

• Functional Prototype: You must possess at least a working prototype or proof-of-concept validated in an experimental setting, alongside clear control over the underlying intellectual property (IP).