The European Prize for Women Innovators 2025 is a prestigious initiative jointly awarded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT).
This collaboration aims to spotlight outstanding women entrepreneurs across Europe whose pioneering innovations are creating meaningful societal and environmental impact.
By recognizing these exceptional individuals, the prize not only supports the growth of innovation led by women but also promotes them as role models for future generations of female scientists, technologists, and business leaders.
European Prize for Women Innovators : Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
| Organizer | European Commission (EIC & EIT) |
| Prize Categories | EIC Women Innovators, EIC Rising Innovators, EIT Women Leadership Award |
| Application Deadline | September 25, 2025 |
| Prize Amounts | Up to €100,000 depending on category |
| Eligible Applicants | Women founders/co-founders in the EU or Horizon Europe-associated countries |
| Type | Innovation Prize / Contest |
| Target Group | Women Innovators, including young entrepreneurs under 35 |
About the European Commission
The European Commission’s Department for International Partnerships, under Commissioner Jutta Urpilainen, works with global partners to drive sustainable development.
Its mission is to reduce poverty, promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, and advance sustainable progress worldwide through impactful policies and international collaboration.
About the European Prize for Women Innovators
This annual prize celebrates women behind Europe’s most transformative innovations.
The competition is open to women from EU Member States and countries associated with Horizon Europe.
It aims to elevate visibility, unlock opportunities, and champion women’s contributions in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Aim and Benefits
The prize includes three distinct categories, each offering monetary rewards:
- EIC Women Innovators
- 1st Prize: €100,000
- 2nd Prize: €70,000
- 3rd Prize: €50,000
- EIC Rising Innovators (for applicants under 35)
- 1st Prize: €50,000
- 2nd Prize: €30,000
- 3rd Prize: €20,000
- EIT Women Leadership Award
- Winner: €50,000
- Runner-ups: €30,000 and €20,000
These awards recognize innovation, leadership, and the ability to inspire others.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a woman (natural person, not legal entity).
- Must be a founder or co-founder of a company or organization.
- The applicant and the company must be legally established in an EU Member State, an overseas country or territory (OCT), or a Horizon Europe-associated country.
- The company/organization must have been incorporated before January 1, 2023.
- Applicants cannot receive the same EU prize twice for the same achievements.
Selection Process
Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on:
- Breakthrough Innovation: The company’s work demonstrates pioneering advances, particularly in STEM or deep-tech fields.
- Impact: The innovation addresses real-world challenges and offers significant benefits to people and/or the environment.
- Inspiration: The applicant is a visionary leader and a role model who encourages other women and girls to pursue their innovative goals.
Application Deadline
September 25, 2025
Late applications will not be considered, so early submission is encouraged.
How to Apply
Before applying, candidates should review the following documents:
Applications must be submitted via the Funding and Tenders Portal for the respective categories:
- Apply for EIC Women Innovators Category
- Apply for EIC Rising Innovators Category
- Apply for EIT Women Leadership Award
For complete information and updates, visit the official European Prize for Women Innovators webpage.
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