Budget

The funding for the internships is fully covered by the participating EU programs (EIC, EIT, ERC, MSCA, etc.) – host companies bear no costs. The remuneration of the interns covers a maximum of 3 months through the FSTP (Financial Support to Third Parties) mechanism, even if the internship can be extended up to 6 months. There is no direct funding granted to the host company.

Key dates and deadline

Call permanently open until July 2026 Companies can register at any time on the InnoNext platform (innonext-project.eu) Internship duration: 3–6 months Covered funding: maximum 3 months through FSTP AI matching between the company profile and available researchers CUT-OFF: April 30, 2026 July 31, 2026 October 31, 2026

Details

InnoNext offers two main streams: Deep Tech Talents (internships focused on research and advanced technical projects) and Entrepreneurship Talents (for aspiring entrepreneurs from academia). In addition to matchmaking, the platform provides personalized onboarding, mentorship during the internship, and a community of European innovators. The EIT Community joined the InnoNext initiative in April 2025, expanding access to opportunities through the EIT network. Through InnoNext, the EIC already supports over 9,900 companies and has contributed to the launch of 2,450+ new products.

Eligibility

Startups and SMEs from the EU or Horizon Europe associated countries, supported by EU programs (EIC, EIT, Horizon Europe, etc.) Companies must be financially stable and active They must define an internship opportunity relevant to innovation and provide a suitable working environment for the intern

Additional information

How to apply?

https://eic.ec.europa.eu/eic-funding-opportunities/bas/innonext-next-generation-innovation-talents-initiative_en