Budget
Up to 100% of eligible project costs, under an actual-cost reimbursement model. Initial financial support of up to €100,000 per venture, up to 4 top-ranked Shape ventures may each receive up to an additional €100,000 following the Demo Day.
Key dates and deadline
Call opening 10 August 2026 Application deadlines 12 October 2026, 17:00 CEST Evaluation of proposals October – December 2026 Communication of results Mid-December 2026 Publication of results Mid-January 2027 Start of projects January 2027
Details
Shape Acceleration supports early-stage startups with validated market need and initial commercial traction that are ready to strengthen their product-market fit, refine their business model, accelerate go-to-market execution and prepare for future investment. Selected ventures also participate in the mandatory Shape Acceleration Programme, which includes a kick-off event, online working sessions, dedicated coaching, mentoring, peer and expert sessions, pitching and storytelling support, visibility opportunities and a mid-programme Demo Day. Sectors / domain: Cultural and Creative Sectors and Industries (CCSI), targeting tech-enabled, market-driven and scalable ventures. For the 2027 cohort, only Fashion, Architecture and Audio-Visual Media are included.
Eligibility
Applications must be submitted by a single for-profit legal entity. Specific eligibility requirements: Applicants must be legally established in an EU Member State or a country associated with the relevant Horizon Europe pillar under which the EIT operates and must have a valid PIC number. The venture must operate in one of the eligible 2027 sectors and demonstrate a differentiated and defensible value proposition, credible competitive advantage and real market traction through proven revenue and/or active commercial pilots. The core product or technology must be the primary source of current or planned revenue rather than a supporting service. Founding teams should combine creativity, technology and business capabilities, with at least one founder working full-time and at least one founder demonstrating relevant sector expertise.
Additional information
How to apply?
https://eit-culture-creativity.eu/your-opportunities/calls-funding/financial-support-startups-and-scaleups-shape-acceleration-scale