EIC Women Leadership Programme 2026: Call for Mentors to Shape Europe’s Next Generation of Women Innovators

The European Innovation Council (EIC) has officially launched its 2026 Call for Mentors under the highly impactful EIC Women Leadership Programme, inviting experienced professionals across Europe’s innovation ecosystem to contribute to the development of high-potential women researchers and entrepreneurs.

Running from May to November 2026, this prestigious initiative offers a unique opportunity for leaders to actively shape the future of European innovation while expanding their own influence, visibility, and professional network.

 What is the EIC Women Leadership Programme?

The EIC Women Leadership Programme is a flagship initiative by the European Innovation Council aimed at empowering women innovators by strengthening their leadership skills, expanding their networks, and supporting their entrepreneurial growth.

Since its launch in 2021, the programme has successfully supported over 300 women researchers and entrepreneurs, creating a dynamic and inclusive ecosystem where innovation thrives through diversity and collaboration.

A central pillar of the programme is its structured mentoring scheme, which connects:

• Experienced leaders (mentors)
• High-potential women innovators (mentees)

This exchange fosters meaningful collaboration, knowledge transfer, and long-term professional relationships.

 Purpose of the Mentor Call

The 2026 call seeks highly experienced professionals willing to contribute their expertise on a pro bono basis while engaging in a high-level European innovation network.

Mentors play a critical role in:

• Guiding mentees through leadership challenges
• Supporting business and venture growth
• Enhancing strategic thinking and decision-making
• Expanding mentees’ professional networks

Through this engagement, mentors directly contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive European innovation landscape.

 What’s in It for Mentors?

Participating as a mentor offers both professional recognition and strategic opportunities, including:

• Official mentor recognition and certification
• Visibility across EIC communication channels (including mentor showcases)
• Access to an exclusive European network of investors, founders, and innovation leaders
• Invitations to speaking engagements and thought leadership opportunities
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and breakthrough innovations
• Participation in prestigious events such as the EIC Summit
• Opportunity to shape the future of women’s leadership in innovation

This is not just a mentoring role—it is a strategic leadership position within Europe’s innovation ecosystem.

 The Role of a Mentor

Mentors are matched with participants based on their expertise and the mentees’ development needs, ensuring a high-impact and personalized mentoring relationship.

Key areas of focus include:

• Leadership development and confident decision-making
• Strategic thinking and business growth
• Career advancement and leadership positioning
• Network expansion and visibility

Mentors are expected to share insights, provide guidance, and open doors to opportunities that can accelerate the mentees’ professional journeys.

 Programme Timeline

The mentoring journey is structured to ensure meaningful engagement while respecting mentors’ time:

• 13 May 2026 – Online onboarding workshop
• 30 June 2026 – Mentor–mentee matching confirmed
• July – November 2026 – Mentoring sessions and networking activities
• 27 November 2026 – Final event, Demo Day, and pitching session (online)

 Time Commitment

The programme is designed to be flexible and manageable:

• 5–6 online mentoring sessions
• Each session lasts approximately 1 hour
• Scheduling is flexible based on mentor availability

 Who Should Apply?

The programme is open to experienced professionals from across Europe’s innovation ecosystem, including:

• Established entrepreneurs and founders
• Investors and venture capital professionals
• C-level executives and senior managers
• Innovation experts and ecosystem leaders

Ideal candidates demonstrate:

• Strong leadership experience
• Deep understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship
• Commitment to supporting the next generation of women leaders

 Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the official EIC application platform, where candidates can provide details about their expertise, experience, and motivation to join the programme.

After submission:

• Applications undergo a selection process
• Selected mentors are invited to onboarding
• Matching with mentees is conducted based on expertise and needs

 Deadline

All applications must be submitted by:

April 30, 2026 

Late applications will not be considered, so early submission is strongly recommended.

 Why This Opportunity Matters

The EIC Women Leadership Programme represents a powerful step toward:

• Promoting gender equality in innovation
• Supporting women in leadership and entrepreneurship
• Building inclusive and diverse innovation ecosystems

By becoming a mentor, you are not only giving back—you are actively shaping the future of European innovation leadership.

For more information click here 

APPLY HERE

Discover more opportunities here