Call for Proposals: Summer School Programmes 2026

Deadline: 19-Jan-2026

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) is inviting applications for its Summer School Programmes under the 28DIGITAL Strategic Innovation Agenda. These two-week programs, scheduled for July–mid-August 2026, aim to equip students with entrepreneurial, innovation, and soft skills in areas like Digital Tech, Digital Industry, Digital Cities, Digital Wellbeing, and Digital Finance. Funding of up to €85,000 per applicant is available to support the design, implementation, and delivery of these Summer Schools.

Overview

The EIT Summer School Programmes provide training opportunities for universities, education and research organizations, business entities, and training providers to host two-week Summer Schools. The programs are aligned with the five strategic focus areas of the 28DIGITAL Strategic Innovation Agenda:

• Digital Tech

• Digital Industry

• Digital Cities

• Digital Wellbeing

• Digital Finance

The initiative aims to expose students to innovation and entrepreneurship (I&E) concepts, methods, and tools while fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Programme Structure

• Duration: 2 weeks (July–mid-August 2026)

• Credits: 4 ECTS, 112 hours of student work

• Participants: EIT Digital Master School students and external participants

Week 1: Knowledge and Exposure

• Lectures on emerging technologies

• Keynotes from academics and industry experts

• Interactive sessions and discussions with professionals

Week 2: Hands-on Application

• Team-based projects guided by coaches

• Conceptualization, development, and potential launch of entrepreneurial ventures

• Final pitch competition evaluated by a selected jury

Learning Outcomes

Students will gain:

• Entrepreneurial competences to turn ideas into viable businesses

• Innovation competences and awareness of global trends

• Ethical and sustainability integration in business solutions

• Teamwork and collaboration skills

Funding and Budget

• Total call value: €170,000

• Maximum EIT funding per applicant: €85,000

• Co-funding requirement: Minimum 30% of total budget

• Eligible costs: Teaching staff, materials, marketing, company engagement, logistics, social events, and meals

• Indirect costs: 25% flat rate of eligible direct costs

• Lodging costs are handled separately and paid by 28DIGITAL partners

Eligibility Criteria

• Proposers must be or become a Partner of 28DIGITAL

• Participation open to EU Member States and Horizon Europe associated countries

• At least one Summer School must take place in a RIS country

• Hungarian applicants must comply with Council Implementing Decision 2022/2506

Proposal Requirements

• Strategic alignment with 28DIGITAL focus areas

• Entrepreneurial focus and capacity to mentor participants

• Minimum of 50 participants and accessible European location

• Evidence of prior experience in venture creation

• Engagement plans with local Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs), scientists, and companies

Expected Deliverables

• Execution of the Summer School program

• Detailed programme and implementation plan

• Evaluation report of the Summer School

• Accurate budget allocation across personnel, subcontracting, purchase, and other cost categories

How to Apply

1. Submit proposals via the Proposal Submission System

2. Ensure compliance with formal requirements, including budget and delivery plans

3. Deadlines: 19 January 2026, 5 pm CEST

4. Follow-up includes expert review, Review Gate, and Management Committee decision

5. Selected applicants may implement requested changes before final inclusion in the Business Plan

Tips for a Successful Application

• Demonstrate clear alignment with the 28DIGITAL strategic agenda

• Provide a detailed plan for student engagement and mentorship

• Showcase prior experience in hosting or mentoring entrepreneurial initiatives

• Ensure the Summer School location is accessible and can accommodate 50+ participants

• Outline collaboration with companies and TTOs to emphasize real-world entrepreneurial application

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the Summer School funding?

Training providers, universities, business and research organizations must be or become 28DIGITAL Partners.

2. What is the maximum funding available?

Up to €85,000 in EIT support per Summer School, with a minimum 30% co-funding.

3. What are the program dates?

Summer Schools must be conducted between July and mid-August 2026.

4. How many participants are required?

Each Summer School must attract a minimum of 50 participants.

5. What countries are eligible for participation?

Participants from EU Member States and Horizon Europe associated countries; at least one Summer School must take place in a RIS country.

6. What are the key deliverables for funded Summer Schools?

Execution of the Summer School, a detailed programme and implementation plan, and an evaluation report.

7. How are lodging costs handled?

Variable lodging costs are arranged by partners and paid directly by 28DIGITAL, not through EIT funding.

Conclusion

The EIT 28DIGITAL Summer School Programmes provide a comprehensive platform for students to gain entrepreneurial and innovation skills while engaging with global industry and academic networks. With clear funding, structured guidance, and strategic focus on digital innovation, the program empowers institutions to deliver impactful Summer Schools that prepare students for real-world challenges and entrepreneurial success.

For more information, visit EIT.