The EIT Awards highlight why Europe needs strong innovation ecosystems connecting education, research and business in an innovation ecosystem. These innovators show how entrepreneurship and collaboration can address real challenges that matter to citizens. We are committed to supporting this work and helping more talented Europeans turn their fledgling ideas into marketable solutions.
Antoaneta Angelova Krasteva, Director at the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture of the European Commission
The innovators we celebrate today are outstanding examples of how European talent can turn strong ideas into impact. In Europe, we need more of that: solutions that improve our lives and help us to regain our ability to compete globally. I warmly congratulate the winners and all finalists for their achievements.
Martin Kern, EIT Director
Finalists in each of the three main prize categories competed for the top spot on the podium, with monetary prizes of €50 000 for first place, €30 000 for second, and €20 000 for third. The Public Award was presented separately as a recognition prize.
The Changemaker Award winner is: Laura Laringe (Germany), nominated by InnoEnergy, for co-founding reLi Energy, which improves battery performance and lifespan through smart software. Second place went to Laurie Lancee (Netherlands) and third to Farnaz Baksh (Estonia).
The EIT Venture Award winner is ABLE Human Motion (Spain), nominated by EIT Health, for developing accessible, affordable motorised exoskeletons that support mobility and gait rehabilitation. Second place went to Sofi Alchemist (Finland) and third to Digiclean Solutions AB (Sweden).
The EIT Jumpstarter Grand Finale
The EIT Jumpstarter Grand Finale highlighted early-stage innovators from moderate and emerging innovation regions. Teams presented solutions developed through the programme’s training and mentoring, showcasing the diversity of ideas from Europe’s newest innovation communities. Finalists competed across seven categories – Healthcare, Food & Agritech, Energy & Renewables, New European Bauhaus, Raw Materials, Smart Cities & Mobility, and Rebuild Ukraine – with special awards recognising standout teams from the Western Balkans, the Mediterranean, and the EU outermost regions. Learn more about this year’s winners and finalists here.
Recognition of Ukrainian Women Driving Innovation
The event also honoured Ukrainian women innovators through the EIT Red Kalyna Awards, recognising entrepreneurs, educators, researchers, and mentors who continue to drive innovation and support resilient communities despite Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Their achievements underscore the strength of Ukraine’s innovation ecosystem and the need to support women leading change in times of crisis. Learn about this year’s winners here.
Strengthening European Cooperation
The Awards took place during a full day of activities bringing together innovators, policymakers, investors, and partners from across Europe. The main stage featured opening remarks by Antoaneta Angelova Krasteva, Director of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture, Stefan Dobrev, Chairperson of the EIT Governing Board and László Bódis, Deputy State Secretary for Innovation, Hungarian Ministry of Innovation and Culture, the presentation of the newly designated EIT Water team, and live pitches from the nine EIT Awards finalists. The programme also included high-level debates on regional innovation and place-based growth, and a panel on why EIT-backed startups attract investment. A highlight of the day was the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding between the EIT and the Government of Malta, strengthening cooperation and innovation capacity in the region.
Europe’s Largest Innovation Network
The EIT Community brings together more than 2 420 leading partners from business, research, and education, connected through over 70 hubs across Europe. It has supported more than 9 900 ventures and generated over 2 400 new products and services, with EIT-backed companies raising €9.5 billion in external investment. The EIT has also trained more than 1.3 million learners, while its startups have reached a combined valuation of €71 billion.
