Financial Support to Startups and Scaleups | Shape Acceleration & Scale Post-Acceleration

EIT Culture & Creativity invites early-stage founders in Cultural and Creative technology (CreaTech) to apply for the Open Call for New Ventures in Creative Tech (Spark). This program is designed to support individuals and multidisciplinary teams ready to transform business concepts into legally established, viable ventures. The call specifically targets solutions in fashion, architecture, and advanced material innovations. Selected applicants will receive up to €30,000 in funding, alongside mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to the EIT Culture & Creativity ecosystem. The program includes an in-person Startup Sprint followed by a 9-month online Spark Incubation Programme. Eligibility requires applicants to be registered in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe associated country, be prepared to develop scalable, for-profit ventures, and already be testing, building, or validating their business concept, not just ideating. Participants are expected to incorporate a new legal entity no later than Month 3 of the program to continue receiving financial support.

To apply, applicants must obtain a Participant Identification Code (PIC) by registering on the EU Funding & Tender Portal. The application form, available from October 5, 2026, until November 16, 2026, requires the submission of a budget plan, a signed Declaration of Honour, a Lean Startup Canvas, and a Venture Execution Plan.