Co-Creation Accelerator 2026-2027
Build and validate your deep-tech venture with industry.
The Co-Creation Accelerator is a programme by 28DIGITAL, designed to bring together startups and industry partners to co-develop solutions addressing real-world challenges. The focus is on:
- validating core technology (TRL 4–5 and above);
- strengthening problem–solution fit;
- reducing technical and market uncertainty;
- developing a clear path toward scalability.
This is not a traditional accelerator. It is a challenge-driven, execution-focused programme.
Challenges
The programme is built around real industry challenges.
Two ways to apply:
- Open Challenge Track:
Apply with your own corporate partner and jointly define the challenge you want to address. - Industry Challenge Track:
Apply to predefined challenges developed with corporate partners. These reflect concrete industry needs and use cases.
What do you get?
- receive financial support from 28DIGITAL (up to €250 000), with no co-funding required;
- collaborate directly with industry leaders on their specific challenges;
- access fundraising assistance;
- receive intensive training from experts through your exclusive seat in the 28DIGITAL Speed Master and MentorMe;
- gain visibility among hundreds of partners from 28DIGITAL's innovation ecosystem across Europe, including corporates, public sector, investors and academia.
Who should apply?
28DIGITAL is looking for early-stage digital startups with the following characteristics:
- are a micro or small enterprise (fewer than 50 employees), according to the EU definition;
- are incorporated and operating in an EU, Horizon Europe or HE-associated country;
- operate at TRL 4 or above;
- have been incorporated within the last five years;
- have a minimum of two FTEs;
- possess or control key intellectual property (IP) or technology assets.
Applicants should have:
- a capable team with the necessary technical and business expertise;
- at least a working prototype or proof of concept that has been validated in an experimental setting;
- a clear problem-solution hypothesi;
- early engagement with users, stakeholders, or industry;
This programme is not suitable for idea-stage teams without a prototype.
Application process
How does it work?
Please read carefully the Call document and the FAQ to find the answer to some of the more common questions and if you can’t find your answer there, please contact 28DIGITAL.
1. Apply
- Step 1: register your organisation in the EU Funding & Tenders Portal to obtain the nine-digit Participant Identification Code (PIC number). If you do not know if your organisation already has a PIC number, you can verify directly on the EU Portal whether your organisation is already registered.
- Step 2: register all participating organisations as 28DIGITAL partners (preliminary registration) and the user that will access the submission system.
- Step 3: access the Co-Creation Accelerator 2026–2027 page to get additional information and access the submission system.
2. Get selected
- Each proposal will be reviewed against the criteria Excellence, Impact, Quality and efficiency of the implementation, Challenge and Strategic Fit.
3. Co-create with an industry partner!
- Accepted proposals will start their activities on 16 November 2026.
Information session
Join the Information Session on 16 July 2026 at 15.00 CEST to learn more about this opportunity. Register now.
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