Open Horizons, a Horizon Europe-financed initiative, has officially launched its first Open Call for funding of women-led start-ups. Those operating in deep tech and digital innovation can apply for unique financial support from 11 June to 21 August 2025.

Successful applicants will receive:

  • Up to €55,000 in equity-free funding,
  • Tailored mentoring and strategic matchmaking,
  • Opportunities to co-design and test paid pilot projects with major European corporates.

This is the first of three Open Calls under the project’s broader €1.2 million mission to boost female entrepreneurship in tech and bridge Europe’s innovation gap. The focus is on real-world business needs in sectors like AI, Green Tech, Blockchain, and Advanced Materials.

Who can apply?

To be eligible, startups must:

  • Be based in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe-associated country (this includes the UK)
  • Operate in deep tech or digital innovation,
  • Be led by at least one woman in a key executive role (CEO, CTO or Founder) with a minimum 25% ownership,
  • Be in inception or early-growth stage.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 21 August 2025, 17.00 CEST.

All detailed information can be found at the project website: https://www.openhorizonsproject.eu

Find out more and apply here.