⚠ Summarised by AI based on an external source. Last updated: 11 Mar 2026. Starthubs is not liable for any inaccuracies. Always consult the official challenge information.
The 28DIGITAL Open Innovation Factory is a year-round curated matching platform that connects high-potential digital and deep-tech startups with the right EU-funded opportunities, corporate partnerships and growth pathways across Europe. Rather than a one-size-fits-all accelerator, the platform designs bespoke growth pathways — from EU-funded pilot collaborations and proof-of-concept engagements with corporates to targeted investment calls. The portfolio includes over €40 million in non-dilutive funding and aims to support 500+ startups with free services. Startups submit an Expression of Interest and are assessed on excellence, impact and execution before being matched to the most relevant opportunity.
What is the Open Innovation Factory looking for?
28DIGITAL strategically matches startups to the most relevant pathway across four types of engagement:
- EU funding calls and cascade funding: grants ranging from €20,000 to €1,000,000 across multiple thematic programmes (cybersecurity, digital health, GenAI, circular economy, smart cities and more)
- Corporate co-creation projects: proof-of-concept pilots designed with corporate partners around specific business challenges
- Market access and mentoring: tailored support services through European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) across multiple countries
- Targeted investment opportunities: connections to investors and fundraising support
Applications are assessed on three dimensions: excellence (problem-solution fit, validation, team), impact (scale potential, societal value, EU alignment) and execution (capital readiness, credibility, co-creation potential). Full guidelines are available on the 28DIGITAL website.
Who is this for?
- Digital and deep-tech startups and scaleups from idea stage to Series B
- Based in any EU member state — Netherlands explicitly included
- Companies built around breakthrough scientific or engineering innovations (AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, digital health, cleantech, circular economy)
- Both early-stage (validating solution with first customer) and growth-stage (scaling internationally) welcome
What's in it for you?
- Access to €40M+ in non-dilutive funding across the 28DIGITAL portfolio of EU-funded programmes
- Bespoke matching — you submit one Expression of Interest and are matched to the most relevant opportunity
- Active EU-funded programmes include Eudoros (cybersecurity, €20K–€200K), LLM Bridge (GenAI incubation, €25K), UNITE (digital health, €200K–€1M) and RIV Circular (circular economy, up to €600K)
- Corporate proof-of-concept collaborations tailored to your business
- Free services through a network of European Digital Innovation Hubs across the continent
- If no immediate match is found, 28DIGITAL shares feedback and stays in touch for future opportunities