The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) will host the EIT Awards 2026 on 2 December 2026, from 11:00 to 18:15, in Budapest at the Central European University, offering a hybrid format with full online streaming for participants across Europe.

The EIT Awards recognise outstanding innovators, entrepreneurs, and teams from across the EIT Community whose work demonstrates the power of innovation to address societal challenges and create positive change. Bringing together around 200 physical attendees—including policymakers, investors, higher education leaders, research organizations, and startup founders—the event celebrates breakthrough scientific ideas turned into high-impact solutions, featuring live pitches, high-level panel discussions, and networking opportunities.

Finalists will compete across three jury-selected award categories, each featuring cash prizes of €50,000 for 1st place, €30,000 for 2nd place, and €20,000 for 3rd place:

• EIT Changemaker Award: Recognizing individual leaders driving significant social and environmental impact.
• EIT Innovation Team Award: Celebrating multidisciplinary teams developing groundbreaking products, services, or processes.
• EIT Venture Award: Honoring high-growth startups tackling key global challenges.

In addition, the EIT Public Award will allow audiences across Europe to vote online for their favorite finalist starting in November 2026.

For registration updates, complete agenda, and streaming links, please visit the Official EIT Awards Event Page