Record-Breaking Participation in the EIT HEI Initiative Call for Proposals 2024

1480 Organisations from 55 Countries Submit Applications

The EIT HEI Initiative Call for Proposals 2024, which closed on 12 December 2024, attracted an impressive 130 applications involving 1480 organisations from 55 countries. This milestone reflects the continued growth and impact of the initiative aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the European higher education landscape. 

Application Breakdown: 

  • Total Applications Received: 130 
  • Strand A (General I+E): 93 applications 
  • Strand B (Deep Tech I+E): 37 applications 

Who Participated: 

  • 677 Higher Education Institutions (602 full partners, 75 associated partners) 
  • 475 Businesses & Industry Partners (262 full partners, 213 associated partners) 
  • 328 Other Organisations (including research institutes, public bodies, and NGOs) 

Applications came from all EU Member States, with significant representation from countries in the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme (EIT RIS), as well as non-EU regions such as Latin America and Africa. Notably, 59 out of 65 European University Alliances are represented, reflecting the growing interest in fostering innovation through cross-border collaboration.  

Additionally, strong participation from EIT Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC) partners further underscored the initiative’s expanding network of innovation stakeholders. 

The evaluation process is currently underway, and the selected projects will be announced in Spring 2025. 

We extend our sincere gratitude to all partners, stakeholders, and applicants for their contributions and commitment to advancing innovation in higher education. 

Stay connected for updates on the selected projects and future opportunities!