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 & ThemesSelected startups will join one of the following programmes:Munich, Germany – Smart and Low-Carbon Supply ChainsHelsinki, Finland – Circular Solutions for Food SystemsParis, France – Biotech Ingredients, Products and ProcessesWarsaw, Poland – Future Resilient AgricultureCatania, Italy – Water-Smart Agrifood SystemsWageningen, Netherlands – Digital & Autonomous Farming SolutionsProgramme OverviewDuration: 2–3 months (September–December 2026)Format: Delivered in parallel across six European hubsFocus: Technology validation, commercial acceleration, and investment readinessStartups will undergo a rigorous selection process evaluated by entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Once selected, participants gain access to:Expert mentorship and tailored coachingEuropean research facilities and validation infrastructureIndustry and corporate connectionsInvestment readiness supportAccess to the EIT Food Innovation CommunityThe programme supports startups in refining their technology roadmap, strengthening their go-to-market strategy, and accelerating adoption in the market.Funding OpportunitiesAt 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 (2nd place)€20 000 (3rd place)The subgrant will support the implementation of a Technology Validation Project in 2027, in collaboration with leading universities, research centres, or specialised facilities of the startup’s choice.Are You Eligible?To apply for the EIT Food Accelerator Network programme:You must be a registered company established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe-associated countries (NB; this includes the UK) in or after 2016Your business innovation must be underpinned by a technology with a prototype, or pilot project (paid or unpaid) with TRL 4-8It must also fall under one of EIT FAN’s themesYour company must be pre-series A, with revenues up to €1 million and a team, no more than 20 peopleIdeally, you will have successfully completed customer validationIdeally, you will be able to demonstrate traction, for example, through letters of support, sales, or signed letters of intentSwitzerland and UK-based companies are eligible to apply. However, eligibility for funding will be determined based on Switzerland’s and the UK’s eligibility status for EU funding at that time.Apply now!