European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT)

The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) brings together higher education institutions, research organisations, businesses and other innovation actors through its Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs). The EIT supports education, skills development and entrepreneurship as part of wider innovation ecosystems. Its activities include entrepreneurial education, degree programmes, short learning opportunities, including micro-credentials, and innovation-driven activities addressing societal and economic challenges.

Examples of EIT education and skills initiatives include:

EIT Higher Education Initiative

The EIT Higher Education Initiative supports capacity building in higher education institution to become more innovative and entrepreneurial. Through calls for proposals, selected projects foster collaboration between higher education institutions, businesses, research organisations and EIT Knowledge and Innovation Communities.  The initiative supports activities such as entrepreneurship and innovation education, knowledge and technology transfer the development of innovation support structures, and the upskilling and reskilling of higher education staff. It also helps institutions strengthen their links with regional and European innovation ecosystems.

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EIT Skills Academies

EU Skills Academies bring together stakeholders from education, industry and other relevant sectors to address skills needs in strategic sectors and value chains. They support the development and delivery of training opportunities in areas linked to Europe’s green and digital transitions and industrial competitiveness. The EIT manages the implementation of the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA) Academies, covering areas such as batteries, solar energy, raw materials, wind, hydrogen, and the advanced materials academy.

EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction

EIT STEM Tech Talent Induction aims to attract young people to STEM careers and expand access to STEM learning and skills development. It supports skilling, upskilling and reskilling opportunities towards a broader STEM approach, helping develop the talent needed for Europe’s innovation, competitiveness and technological development.

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EIT Supernovas

Supernovas is a programme designed to boost the participation of women in entrepreneurship and investment. It addresses gender disparities by offering training, mentorship, access to investors, internationalisation support and visibility for women-led startups and aspiring female investors.

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EIT Girls Go STEM

EIT Girls Go STEM encourages schoolgirls and young women (aged 14-19) to explore STEM studies and careers. The initiative provides accessible, interactive and challenge-based opportunities combining STEM knowledge with digital, green and entrepreneurial competences. It supports participation through learning pathways and courses, challenges, mentoring, female role models, student ambassadors and an annual forum. It also engages teachers, schools, vocational education and training institutions and industry through teacher development, practical resources, hackathons and career-oriented activities.

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Relevant policy initiatives

STEM Education Strategic Plan

The STEM Education Strategic Plan is part of the Union of Skills. It addresses key challenges in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and aims to strengthen STEM skills and talent across Europe, promote STEM careers and increase participation, including among women and girls. It also supports Europe’s capacity to respond to the digital and green transitions and maintain its competitiveness and technological leadership.

Learn about the STEM Education Strategic Plan