The European Union project Open Horizons has announced the opportunity to apply for funding for 39 women-led digital and science-intensive startups (applications open until 21 August 2025).
The EU project Open Horizons (2025–2027), funded under the Horizon Europe subprogramme “European Innovation Ecosystems,” aims to create a new approach to bridging the funding and corporate networking gaps for women-led European deep-tech and digital startups. Within the framework of the Open Horizons project, a “Paid Pilot Projects” programme is being launched to finance pilot initiatives, create growth opportunities, and secure follow-up contracts with companies. This initiative will foster a synergistic ecosystem in Europe, complementing and collaborating with major European innovation support programmes.
From 2025 to 2027, the Open Horizons project will hold three open calls for project proposals. This announcement concerns the first call. All three calls will aim to provide new opportunities for women-led deep-tech and digital startups, offering additional access to funding and opportunities to develop pilot projects with major European corporations jointly.
The total funding for all three calls is €1.2 million, to be distributed among 39 women-led startups. Each may receive up to €55,000 in non-dilutive funding, along with direct collaboration with a European company, tailored mentoring, and access to future investors.
Applications for the 1st call can be submitted online via the Open Horizons project website. Call guidelines are available here. Applications are open until 21 August 2025.
Registration: here
More information: Open Horizons project.
