Application Deadline: 29 January 2026
The push to diversify the European tech landscape gains powerful momentum with the launch of the Open Horizons Open Call. This pivotal initiative is now actively seeking applications to propel early-stage, women-led startups working at the cutting edge of deep tech and digital innovation. As part of the ambitious Horizon Europe programme, this open call is designed to bridge the gender gap in technology entrepreneurship by providing not just funding, but a comprehensive support ecosystem to help promising ventures thrive.
What is the Open Horizons Initiative?
Open Horizons is a strategic programme dedicated to fostering inclusion and innovation within Europe’s deep tech sector. By specifically targeting women-led startups, it addresses a critical funding and network gap, ensuring brilliant ideas and transformative technologies have the resources to move from lab to market. The programme offers a unique blend of financial support and strategic guidance, creating a launchpad for the next generation of tech pioneers.
What Does the Open Call Offer?
Selected startups will receive a powerful package of non-dilutive support:
Equity-Free Funding: Receive up to €55,000 in grant funding to validate your technology, develop your MVP, or accelerate your go-to-market strategy all without giving up any company ownership.
Tailored Mentoring: Gain direct access to a network of seasoned experts, industry veterans, and successful entrepreneurs for one-on-one mentorship. Receive guidance on business strategy, technical development, investment readiness, and scaling.
Corporate Collaboration Opportunities: Connect with and explore pilot projects, partnerships, and collaboration opportunities with large European corporations, opening doors to real-world testing, industry insight, and potential customers.
Eligibility Criteria
This call is designed for ambitious founders building the future. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
Sector Focus: Your startup must operate in deep tech or digital sectors such as:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning
Robotics & Advanced Manufacturing
Cybersecurity
Green Tech & Clean Energy
Internet of Things (IoT) & Connectivity
Biotechnology, Health Tech, and other advanced fields.
Team Composition: The startup must have at least one woman founder or co-founder who holds a minimum 25% ownership in the company.
Company Stage: Be an early-stage startup (typically pre-seed or seed) that has not raised more than €1 million in total prior funding.
Geography: Be legally established and operate in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe-associated country.
Key Dates
Application Open: 20 November 2025
Application Deadline: 29 January 2026, at 17:00 Central European Time (CET).
Application Portal: All applications must be submitted through the official Open Horizons portal. Prepare your pitch, business details, and supporting documents in advance.
How to Apply
To apply or find the full guidelines, FAQs, and the official application form Click here
Why This Opportunity Matters
The Open Horizons Open Call is more than just a grant; it’s an entry ticket to a dedicated community and a validation of your venture’s potential. For women founders in deep tech a field historically fraught with funding disparities this programme provides essential capital, credibility, and connections to level the playing field. If you are a woman building a startup that aims to solve complex challenges with groundbreaking technology, this call is your catalyst. Don’t miss the chance to fuel your vision and join a growing network shaping Europe’s technological future.
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