EPIC-X is a European initiative designed to strengthen the deep tech innovation ecosystem by empowering women-led startups from countries classified as moderate and emerging innovators. Through a competitive open call, EPIC-X will support 20 female-led deep tech startups, distributing a total of €1.2 million in non-equity grant funding alongside an intensive six-month acceleration programme.

Each selected startup will receive €60,000 in grant funding and gain access to the EPIC-X Acceleration+ Programme, which combines tailored mentoring, operational support, ecosystem connections, and investor exposure to accelerate growth and market readiness.

About EPIC-X

EPIC-X aims to transform Europe’s innovation landscape by strengthening place-based innovation and connected ecosystems for women entrepreneurs in deep tech. The programme focuses on bridging regional innovation gaps while ensuring women founders have the tools, capital, and networks needed to scale high-impact technologies.

EPIC-X is built on collaboration between experienced innovation partners, ecosystem builders, and research-driven organisations across Europe.

Why Apply to EPIC-X?

EPIC-X goes beyond funding. It is designed to help women founders scale deep tech innovations, access high-value ecosystems, and expand their European market footprint—while contributing to a more inclusive, competitive, and resilient European innovation economy.

What Selected Startups Receive

The 20 selected startups will benefit from:

• €60,000 in non-equity grant funding per startup

• Participation in a 6-month Acceleration+ Programme

• Personalised growth roadmaps and monthly operational support

• One-to-one mentoring from a pool of 100+ deep tech experts

• Masterclasses, meetups, and peer learning opportunities

• Direct connections to investors and European innovation ecosystems

• A high-profile Demo Day to showcase solutions and scale impact

Programme Focus

EPIC-X targets deep tech innovations with strong technological foundations and scalability potential, including (but not limited to):

• Strategic digital technologies

• Advanced engineering and applied sciences

• Research-driven and science-based solutions

The programme specifically supports startups operating in moderate and emerging innovator countries, strengthening cross-border collaboration and inclusive innovation across Europe.

Programme Structure and Timeline

• Open call launched: via EPIC-X official platform

• Selection: Independent evaluation of applications

• Acceleration+ Programme duration: 6 months

• Programme outcome: Investor-ready startups with expanded European market reach

No public closing deadline has been announced at the time of publication. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official EPIC-X platform.

Official programme page:
https://epic-x.eu/

Open Call information:
https://epic-x.eu/open-call/

Applicants should prepare clear information on their technology, traction, scalability, and the role of women in leadership within the startup.

Consortium and Ecosystem Support

EPIC-X is delivered by a strong European consortium of innovation agencies, research organisations, startup networks, and ecosystem builders operating across multiple EU countries. This ensures participants benefit from regional expertise, cross-border collaboration, and long-term ecosystem integration.

Contact and Enquiries

• General enquiries:
  https://epic-x.eu/contacts/

• More information about the programme:
  https://epic-x.eu/

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