EIT Food Accelerator Network (FAN) – Call for Startups 2026

Join the EIT Food Accelerator Network 2026 to scale your agrifood startup with expert mentorship, investor connections, and access to Europe’s leading food innovation ecosystem! The EIT Food Accelerator Network (FAN) is a multi-hub European accelerator programme supporting high-impact agrifood and foodtech startups to validate their technologies and accelerate market readiness. The 2026 call invites ambitious startups to join one of six specialised hubs across Europe, each focused on a key theme shaping the future of food systems. Accelerator Hubs & Themes Selected startups will join one of the following programmes: Munich, Germany – Smart and Low-Carbon Supply Chains Helsinki, Finland – Circular Solutions for Food Systems Paris, France – Biotech Ingredients, Products and Processes Warsaw, Poland – Future Resilient Agriculture Catania, Italy – Water-Smart Agrifood Systems Wageningen, Netherlands – Digital & Autonomous Farming Solutions Programme Overview Duration: 2–3 months (September–December 2026) Format: Delivered in parallel across six European hubs Focus: Technology validation, commercial acceleration, and investment readiness Startups will undergo a rigorous selection process evaluated by entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Once selected, participants gain access to: Expert mentorship and tailored coaching European research facilities and validation infrastructure Industry and corporate connections Investment readiness support Access to the EIT Food Innovation Community The programme supports startups in refining their technology roadmap, strengthening their go-to-market strategy, and accelerating adoption in the market. Funding Opportunities At the end of the programme, each hub will host a Technology Validation Pitch Event. The top three startups per hub (18 in total) will receive: €50 000 (1st place) €30 000