EIT HEI call 2026 is open

The call 2026 under the EIT Higher Education Initiate (EIT HEI) that funds projects to build innovation & entrepreneurship capacity in HEIs was launched on 20 October 2026.

• Who can apply: Consortia led by HEIs with business, research, and public sector partners
• Funding per project: up to €1.25 million
• Project duration: 18 months (1 May 2027 – 31 October 2028)
• Key documents: Call text, Project Design and Implementation Guide, Various mandatory templates, KIC synergies documents and FAQs - HERE

Submission deadline: 13 January 2027 – 17:00 CET

The EIT HEI aims to strengthen European higher education’s role in innovation ecosystems. By building institutional innovation and entrepreneurship capacity, the EIT Higher Education Initiative fosters systemic change in higher education institutions (HEIs) and enhances their integration into regional and European innovation networks. EIT HEI projects follow the Knowledge Triangle Model, described in the EIT Strategic Innovation Agenda, bringing together education, research, and business to co-create impactful solutions to global challenges. Central to the initiative is the creation of a dynamic and inclusive innovation community that connects HEIs, businesses, investors, and other stakeholders, amplifying individual and collective project impact.