From ideas to impact: EIT Community New European Bauhaus joins NEB Festival 2026

The EIT Community New European Bauhaus (NEB), an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), is taking part in the NEB Festival 2026 in Brussels with a programme demonstrating how the NEB is being translated into practical action across Europe. 

The NEB Festival is the European Commission’s flagship biennial event, bringing together communities, creators, innovators and policymakers to showcase projects and ideas that support more sustainable, inclusive and high-quality living environments.  

The 2026 edition will open with official speeches, including an address by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and explore themes such as democratic engagement and affordable housing through exhibitions, discussions, workshops and cultural activities.  

The EIT Community NEB supports startups, citizens and innovators in developing solutions that promote more sustainable, inclusive and people-centred ways of living. Festival participants can engage with the EIT Community NEB through a range of sessions, workshops and networking opportunities across the programme, which begins on 9 June with a gathering of the EIT Community NEB alumni network and continues with two days of public activities showcasing the initiative’s work across Europe. 

NEB Innovation Arena 

One of the programme highlights is the NEB Innovation Arena, taking place on 10 June. The session spotlights eight startups from the Catalyse NEB accelerator, showcasing solutions from circular materials to climate-tech. 

Ignite NEB Workshop 

On 11 June, the EIT Community NEB is hosting the Ignite NEB Workshop, an interactive co-creation session inviting participants to explore challenges and generate ideas through the NEB approach. 

EIT Community NEB interactive booth 

Visitors are also able to meet the EIT Community NEB team on 11 June at its interactive booth. The booth provides information on the initiative’s seven programmes, open calls and funding opportunities, while enabling visitors to connect directly with partners and peers from across the ecosystem. 

Learn more about EIT Community NEB 

Through startup pitches, co-creation activities and opportunities for collaboration, the festival programme highlights the role of EIT Community NEB in bringing NEB values to life across Europe. 

Explore the ‘EIT Community New European Bauhaus at the NEB Festival 2026’ booklet

Learn more about the NEB festival