The Co-Creation Accelerator is a program by 28DIGITAL, funded by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (part of Horizon Europe), designed to bring together startups and industry partners to co-develop solutions addressing real-world challenges. The focus is on:
- Validating core technology (TRL 4–5 and above)
- Strengthening problem–solution fit
- Reducing technical and market uncertainty
- Building a clear path toward scalability
This is not a traditional accelerator. It is a challenge-driven, execution-focused program. The premise is straightforward. Early-stage deep tech startups are matched with established corporate partners around concrete challenges. Over four months, they co-develop solutions together — with real access to data, expertise, and operational context that most startups can’t get on their own. The goal is to exit the program with validated technology, a stronger product-market fit, and the foundation of a real commercial relationship.
Two ways to apply:
- Open Challenge Track
Apply with your own corporate partner and jointly define the challenge you want to address. - Industry Challenge Track
Apply to predefined challenges developed with corporate partners. These reflect concrete industry needs and use cases. These will be available on 28DIGITAL’s website.
Selected startups receive up to €250,000 with no co-investment required, plus mentorship, expert training through 28DIGITAL’s SpeedMaster and MentorMe programs, and visibility across a network of over 270 European partners spanning industry, investment, and academia. In exchange, 28DIGITAL takes a small equity stake.
Challenges must connect to one of three areas where 28DIGITAL focuses its bets: deep technologies (AI, robotics, advanced computing); digital security and dual-use applications; and the sustainable digital transition.
Teams must be based in the EU or a Horizon Europe-associated country (this includes the UK), and should have clear ownership of their core technology.
To find out more, register for the next Information Session on 16 July 2026, 15:00 CEST (2pm UK time).
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We are looking for early-stage digital startups that:
- Micro or small enterprise (less than 50 employees) according to EU definiton.
- Incorporated and operating in an EU/Horizon Europe or HE associated country.
- Operate at TRL 4–5 and above.
- Are incorporated within the last 5 years.
- Have a minimum of 2 FTEs.
- Possess or control key IP or technology assets.
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The program is built around real industry challenges.
Two ways to apply:
Open Challenge Track
Apply with your own corporate partner and jointly define the challenge you want to address.Industry Challenge Track
Apply to predefined challenges developed with corporate partners. These reflect concrete industry needs and use cases.Industry challenges will be listed on 28DIGITAL’s website.
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Challenges must connect to one of three areas where 28DIGITAL focuses its bets: deep technologies (AI, robotics, advanced computing), digital security and dual-use applications, and the sustainable digital transition.
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To find out more, register for the next Information Session on 16 July 2026, 15:00 CEST (2pm UK time).
Q&A Session 1: August 5 Q&A Session 2: September 2
Accepted proposals will start their activities on 16 November 2026. Each activity must have an execution timeframe of four months.
A second cut-off will follow with date to be confirmed.