New opportunity for startups: 28DIGITAL Incubation Program 2026
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
Early-stage startups in digital and deep tech can apply for the Venture Incubation Program 2026 by 28DIGITAL (formerly the EIT Digital community).
The program aims to support startups in:
validating their business idea and developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP);
improving their entrepreneurial and startup-building skills;
establishing a company within the EU;
preparing for market entry, investment attraction, and scaling.
Multidisciplinary teams (at least two members) and startups established no earlier than January 1, 2025, are eligible to apply. Applicants must be based in an EU Member State or a country associated with Horizon Europe.
Additional requirements include:
operating in one of 28DIGITAL’s strategic focus areas – deep tech (advanced computing, AI/ML, robotics, sensors, materials, quantum technologies, etc.), strategic technologies (cybersecurity, digital identity, secure data, dual-use technologies, etc.), and green & social technologies (circularity, decarbonization, energy efficiency, sustainable production, climate tech, etc.);
presenting a prototype, proof of concept, or a product close to the MVP stage.
Applications from countries with lower innovation performance, including Bulgaria, are especially encouraged.
The program will be conducted in two phases:
Growth Package – an introductory bootcamp followed by a 12-week incubation program including mentorship, MVP development, and validation, ending with a Demo Day. Around 25 selected teams will receive financial support of €5,000 each;
Final Prize – selected startups may apply for the final stage to compete for up to €25,000 based on their performance. Participants must provide 28DIGITAL with 5% equity through a SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity).
Applications will be evaluated based on excellence, impact, and quality and efficiency of implementation, with impact being the most important criterion.
Shortlisted teams will be invited for interviews in the second half of June, and the program will start on July 6, 2026.
The application deadline is June 9, 2026, at 17:00 CET from here.









