EIT Food is one of the largest innovation communities in the food and agriculture sector, supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT). Its aim is to make the food system more sustainable, healthy, and reliable, and to support innovative research and entrepreneurship.
EIT Food has launched the Biotechnology Innovation Call to accelerate the commercialization of high-potential biotechnological innovations in the agriculture and food sector. The call is being conducted under EIT Food's Co-funded Biotechnology Portfolio and aims to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to key challenges in the sector.
Priority Focus Areas
Project applications are expected to cover one or both of the following two thematic areas:
- Sustainable Downstream Processing (Post-Bioprocess Product Purification and Recovery Processes): Innovative processes and technologies that increase energy and water efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
- Real-Time Process Monitoring and Control Systems: Smart technologies that make production processes more efficient, automated, and traceable.
Types of Projects to be Supported
- New R&D or commercialization projects expected to reach commercialization potential within 12 months,
- Existing research projects planned to be scaled up or brought to market with additional funding,
- Adaptation or dissemination of existing technologies to the food sector through new business models.
Project Period
February – December 2026
Grant Support
- A maximum of €400,000 support will be provided per project.
- The total call budget is €3 million.
Who Can Apply?
The call is open to all eligible institutions and organizations located in EU Member States and Horizon Europe Associated Countries. There is no requirement to be an EIT Food partner to apply.
From Our Faculty's Perspective
The call presents an important opportunity for researchers working in the fields of biotechnology, bioprocessing, sustainable production, digital agriculture, and food technologies. Adapting the interdisciplinary studies conducted within our faculty to this call will provide strategic contributions both to our university and to industry collaborations.
For detailed information and application conditions: EIT Food Biotech Innovation Call