Applications are now open for the DeepTech for Impact Competition 2026, a Europe-wide competition aimed at research teams across Europe who want to take their science beyond the lab.
The initiative is promoted by the ZOLLHOF Startup Factory, a strategic alliance between the ZOLLHOF Tech Incubato – recognized by the Financial Times as one of Europe’s leading startup hubs – and several partner universities, including the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU).
Theme of the 2026 Edition
The 2026 edition focuses on “Sovereign Innovation – Building Europe’s Resilient Future”, with the aim of supporting deep-tech projects that contribute to Europe’s competitiveness, resilience, and strategic autonomy.
Who Can Apply
The competition is open to research teams from across Europe, composed of at least two members, including:
- PhD candidates;
- postdoctoral researchers;
- professors;
- senior researchers;
- research group leaders.
No startup experience or business plan is required – only innovative research and the willingness to explore its potential beyond academia.
Benefits for Participants
Selected teams will receive:
- direct feedback from industry experts, including Siemens Energy, on the market potential of their research;
- coaching on how to communicate research outcomes to industry partners and investors;
- more than €20,000 in in-kind prizes, resources, and support;
- access to a curated network of technology transfer experts, deep-tech venture capital investors, and industry leaders;
- the opportunity to compete for the Spin-Off Golden Ticket, which includes 3–6 months of pre-incubation at the ZOLLHOF Tech Incubator and dedicated venture-building support.
Key Dates
- July 31, 2026 – Application deadline (rolling review).
- September 15, 2026 – Competition Day and final event at the ZOLLHOF Tech Incubator in Nuremberg, Germany, where the top ten selected teams will pitch their projects in person.
To apply, candidates must complete the application form by July 31, 2026.