Deadline Date: April 08, 2026
The EIT Food Accelerator Network (FAN) 2026 invites ambitious agrifood and foodtech startups to accelerate their technologies and market readiness.
The programme focuses on Smart and Low-Carbon Supply Chains, Circular Solutions for Food Systems, Biotech Ingredients, Products and Processes, Future Resilient Agriculture, Water-Smart Agrifood Systems, and Digital & Autonomous Farming Solutions.
Startups selected for the programme will join one of six specialised hubs across Europe, each dedicated to a specific theme shaping the future of food systems. The accelerator runs for 2–3 months from September to December 2026, providing tailored support in technology validation, commercial acceleration, and investment readiness.
Participants undergo a rigorous selection process evaluated by entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Once selected, startups gain access to expert mentorship, personalised coaching, European research facilities, validation infrastructure, industry and corporate connections, investment readiness support, and the broader EIT Food Innovation Community. The programme helps startups refine their technology roadmap, strengthen go-to-market strategies, and accelerate adoption in the market.
At the conclusion of the programme, each hub will host a Technology Validation Pitch Event. The top three startups in each hub, 18 in total, will be awarded funding of €50,000 for first place, €30,000 for second place, and €20,000 for third place.
To be eligible, startups must be registered companies established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe-associated country (including the UK) in or after 2016, with innovations underpinned by a technology prototype or pilot project with TRL 4-8. Eligible companies should be pre-series A, have revenues up to €1 million, a team of no more than 20 people, and ideally, completed customer validation or demonstrated traction through letters of support, sales, or signed letters of intent.
For more information, visit EIT Food.
