Corporate - women-led startup collaboration in deeptech and digital.

Open Horizons is a programme (2024-2026) funded by the European Union through the Horizon Europe initiative. It is designed to increase the market footprint of women-led digital and deep tech startups by fostering direct collaboration with leading European corporations. 

Through our “paid-pilot” model, 39 women-led startups will be selected via three open calls to participate in a tailored acceleration programme. Startups will receive equity-free funding of up to €55,000, as well as targeted support in corporate engagement, investment readiness, and scaling opportunities. 

Our approach

1: Discovery

Corporate Challenges Formulation

Collaboration with corporates to define specific industry challenges and opportunities. Setting a clear and targeted direction for innovation that aligns with strategic corporate objectives and market needs.

2: Scouting

Inclusive Talent Scouting

Implementing three comprehensive open calls to identify and select high-potential, women-led startups in deep tech sectors across Europe. Ensuring a diverse range of ideas and solutions to address the formulated corporate challenges.

3: Funding

Targeted Financial Support and Pilot Implementation

Providing direct financial support to selected startups to develop and implement pilots for their solutions in real-world corporate settings. Validating their viability and potential for scale.

4: Follow-On

Strategic Growth Facilitation

Supporting the continued growth of startups by connecting them with investment channels, such as Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) firms. Facilitating the negotiation of commercial agreements with corporates to establish long-term collaborations beyond the pilot phase.

5: Amplify

Ecosystem Integration and Expansion

Enhancing the collaboration and creating synergies with broader EIC activities, Startup Europe initiatives, and other relevant stakeholders. Amplifying the program impact, sharing best practices, and expanding networking opportunities for women-led startups in the deep tech sector.

Dean Mayster

social & ppc expert

Rebeca Swanstone

social & ppc expert

Timothy Powell

Creative Director

Jennie Ryan

Art Director

Susan Poore

Digital Consultant

Lisa R. Boone

PPC Ninja

Kiara Foster

Head of Content

Edward Smith

Strategy Dreamer

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