The EIT Jumpstarter 2026 is a European pre-acceleration programme that supports innovative ideas—either without a formally established company or established as recently as 2026—in their development into structured and validated businesses.

Throughout the programme, teams have access to:

• Intensive training in business modelling and market validation
• Thematic bootcamps in EIT focus areas
• Specialised mentoring throughout the entire process
• A final pitch with access to prizes of up to €10,000

Additionally, the programme enables integration into the EIT European network, opening doors to future funding opportunities and international collaboration.

Thematic areas:

• Food & Agritech
• Energy & Renewables
• Healthcare
• Smart Cities & Urban Mobility
• Advanced and Green Manufacturing
• Metals, Minerals, Advanced Materials & Industrial Side Streams

As a partner entity of the EIT Community Hub Portugal, Startup Madeira also highlights that this programme, organised by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), includes a dedicated prize category for the Outermost Regions, encouraging applications particularly from autonomous regions, including Madeira.

Applications are open until 8 May 2026.