Are you a woman entrepreneur driving change through innovation? The 2027 European Prize for Women Innovators is your chance to gain European recognition for the impact of your work and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Jointly awarded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), the prize celebrates women behind groundbreaking innovations and successful businesses across Europe. It shines a spotlight on leaders who are turning bold ideas into real-world solutions, while helping to close the gender gap in innovation.

Ekaterina Zaharieva, Commissioner for startups, research and innovation said: 

Across Europe, women innovators are transforming bold ideas into solutions that improve lives and strengthen our societies. Their creativity, courage and determination are not only driving progress in every field, but they are also opening new possibilities for future generations. Through the European Prize for Women Innovators, we celebrate these exceptional women for a more innovative and equal Europe.

Why apply?

Winning – or even being recognised – can raise your profile, open new opportunities and showcase your journey to a Europe-wide audience. The prize honours women innovators whose work is creating value for the society, the economy and the planet.

How to apply?

If you meet the criteria outlined in the Rules of the Contest, submit your application through the Funding & Tender Opportunities portal for each prize category:

Prize categories

In 2027, the prize will be awarded in three categories:

Women Innovators

For women founders and co-founders from across the EU and countries associated to Horizon Europe. 

1st prize: €100 000 2nd prize: €70 000 3rd prize: €50 000

EIT Women Leadership

For exceptional members of the EIT Community whose innovation and leadership are making a strong impact. 

1st prize: €50 000 2nd prize: €30 000 3rd prize: €20 000

Rising Innovators

For promising young women innovators under the age of 35. 

1st prize: €50 000 2nd prize: €30 000 3rd prize: €20 000Key datesApplications open: 2 September 2026 Online info-session: 17 September 2026 (Register here)Deadline to apply: 1 December 2026, 17:00 CET Award ceremony: Q2 2027Celebrating innovation with impact

The European Prize for Women Innovators recognises the women who are shaping Europe’s future through creativity, leadership and entrepreneurship. From deep tech and digital to health, climate and beyond, the prize showcases innovators whose ideas are delivering tangible results and inspiring others to follow.

If you are leading an innovative company and ready to take your work to the next level, this is the moment to step forward.

Apply now and join Europe’s community of inspiring women innovators.

Have specific questions? Here’s how to reach us:

Women Innovators and Rising Innovators categories: EISMEA-WIPatec [dot] europa [dot] eu (EISMEA-WIP[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)EIT Women Leadership category: eit-awardsateit [dot] europa [dot] eu (eit-awards[at]eit[dot]europa[dot]eu)