The Innovation area at EIT Culture & Creativity bridges the gap between groundbreaking ideas and commercial viability, transforming creative concepts into market-ready innovations. We specialise in advancing promising prototypes from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 (validated under certain conditions) to TRL 9 (market launch), driving transformative solutions for Europe's Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries (CCSI).
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Big data intelligence for cultural tourism
ARCHITECTURE
Revolutionary sustainable flat-pack structure construction
FASHION
Reducing waste through virtual fitting
Audio-visual Media
AI-Powered reality TV production
GAMING
AI CRM transforming game publishing
Impact AMBITIONs by 2028
We are building a strong pan-European innovation ecosystem that unites education, research, and business. Between 2026 and 2028, we will deploy €30M in transparent cascade funding. Our initiatives directly support key EU priorities like the Competitiveness Compass, AI Continent Action Plan, and European Green Deal, by using culture and creativity to boost economic growth, strengthen social cohesion and encourage environmental sustainability.
What we do
From concept to market
We fuel high-impact innovations by offering financial support for scaling through our Innovation Calls. Our support extends beyond funding to include strategic mentorship, investor matchmaking, IP strategy development and unique access to Europe's largest network of creative industry stakeholders. This network spans our five priority sectors: Architecture, Audio-Visual Media, Cultural Heritage, Fashion and Gaming.
How we work
Flexible instruments, measurable results
We provide flexible support through SAFE agreements (convertible funding model), equity partnerships and revenue-sharing models, all subject to rigorous, milestone-based monitoring. Our flagship Innovation Forum offers top performers pathways to international growth by showcasing them to investors and industry leaders. Each project integrates sustainability principles, gender-sensitive design and robust intellectual property strategies, ensuring innovations are commercially viable and socially responsible.
Investment Network
Established in 2023, the EIT Culture & Creativity Investment Network brings together investors and innovators. This community seeks to direct private capital into the CCSI, expanding funding prospects beyond the initial incubation and acceleration phases.
100-to-Watch
The 100-to-Watch gathers Europe’s most forward-looking creative ventures. Supported by EIT Culture & Creativity, these startups and scaleups reflect the ambition of a new generation of innovators who are leading green, digital and social transitions.
Innovation forum
The Innovation Forum is one of EIT Culture & Creativity's main flagship event. It gathers key players in culture, creativity and innovation to explore how the cultural and creative sectors can drive sustainable transformation across Europe.
More information soon
Article type
Press releases
Opportunities
EIT Culture & Creativity Opens €10.5M to take Europe’s Creative Innovations to Market
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Events
Creative rights and IP emerge as strategic priorities for Europe's creative economy at Innovation Forum 2026
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Events
EIT Culture & Creativity Innovation Forum 2026 to take place in Alicante
