The European Prize for Women Innovators
The European Prize for Women Innovators awards recognition prizes to women entrepreneurs for breakthrough innovations that benefit people and the planet and inspire future women innovators.
Funder: European Innovation Council
Due Dates: December 1, 2026, 17:00 CET (All categories)
Funding Amounts: Nine recognition prizes: €20,000–€100,000, depending on category and rank
Summary: Recognises women entrepreneurs whose breakthrough innovations benefit people and the planet and inspire future women innovators.
Key Information: Apply as an individual founder or co-founder using a natural-person PIC, not your organisation’s PIC.
Description
The European Prize for Women Innovators is an annual Horizon Europe recognition prize jointly awarded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). Managed by EISMEA and EIT, the 2027 edition celebrates women entrepreneurs across the EU and Horizon Europe associated countries who have turned ideas into disruptive innovations.
The prize recognises breakthrough innovation, positive socio-economic or environmental impact, and inspiring leadership. It includes work in deep tech and science, technology, engineering and mathematics, alongside innovations addressing real needs for people and the planet. Through three categories, the programme raises awareness of women’s contribution to Europe’s innovation ecosystem and creates role models encouraging women and girls to become scientists, innovators and technology leaders.
