EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction Call 2026: Up to €80,000 per project

Published on October 19, 2026

The EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction Call for Proposals 2026 is now open, inviting organisations across Europe to develop STEM learning activities that address real-world skills gaps and help learners progress towards further education, training and careers in STEM.

With up to €2 million in total funding and up to €80,000 per project, the call aims to support up to 25 projects that strengthen the connection between education, training and industry.

What does the call support?

Projects should respond to clearly identified STEM skills needs at industry, regional or sectoral level, offering practical and accessible learning opportunities. Activities can range from introductory experiences that build interest in STEM to more focused technical training and skills development.

Eligible focus areas include:

  • Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics

  • Information and Communication Technologies

  • Engineering, Manufacturing and Construction

Proposals are also encouraged to address strategic technologies and emerging applications, including artificial intelligence, other digital technologies and space-related technologies. Interdisciplinary projects combining STEM with areas such as entrepreneurship, sustainability, creativity and human-centred problem-solving are also welcome, provided they retain a clear STEM focus.

Activities can be delivered online, in person or through blended formats, including industry challenge-based learning, vocational education and training (VET), higher education activities and modular learning programmes.

Who can apply?

Applications must be submitted by a consortium including at least one education provider and one business or industry partner.

Potential partners include universities, VET providers, schools and training organisations, EdTech companies, enterprises, start-ups, scale-ups, industry associations, research centres and innovation labs. Regional and public-sector actors are also encouraged to participate where relevant.

This offers EIT Health partners an opportunity to explore collaborations between education and industry, particularly where healthcare innovation, digital technologies and emerging skills needs intersect.

What makes a strong proposal?

The call prioritises learners at ISCED levels 3–5, with particular attention to VET pathways. Projects should demonstrate:

  • A clear response to identified STEM skills gaps and labour-market needs

  • Strong engagement between education providers and industry

  • Clear learning outcomes and appropriate assessment

  • Inclusive approaches that widen participation in STEM, including among women and girls, learners from RIS countries and people from remote regions or diverse backgrounds

  • Potential for lasting impact through reusable resources, integration into existing programmes, train-the-trainer approaches or opportunities to replicate and scale successful activities

Each selected project is expected to reach a minimum of 1,200 learners.

Key dates

  • Call opens: 14 October 2026

  • Information session 1: 26 October 2026, 11:00–12:00 CET

  • Information session 2: 19 November 2026, 15:00–16:00 CET

  • Application deadline: 14 December 2026

Find out more and apply

Partners interested in developing a proposal or joining a consortium can find further information about the call, eligibility requirements and application process on the EIT STEM Talent website.

Explore the EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction Call 2026