EIT Urban Mobility is inviting experienced ecosystem players to submit proposals for its Startup Ecosystem Agents Open Call. This initiative aims to select six strategic partners to serve as local points of presence in key European startup ecosystems, with the goal of strengthening local and European urban mobility innovation from 2026 to 2028. The selected agents will be instrumental in expanding EIT Urban Mobility’s outreach, supporting local European mobility startups, and enhancing cross-border collaboration and investment opportunities.
Target Locations
The call is specifically targeting applicants based in the following locations:
• Berlin (Germany)
• London (United Kingdom)
• Paris (France)
• Turin (Italy)
• One Nordic country (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway or Sweden)
• One eligible RIS country (excluding Italy, Portugal and Spain)
Applicant Requirements
Applicants are required to demonstrate a comprehensive set of qualifications and experience, including:
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in supporting startups, with a preference for those in mobility, transport, or related deep-tech and sustainability sectors.
• Strong and established networks within the local startup ecosystem, encompassing startups, investors, corporates, public authorities, and support organizations.
• Solid knowledge of the local mobility market and regulatory landscape, complemented by an understanding of the European and global mobility startup scene.
• Proven experience in startup scouting, selection, mentoring, and acceleration, including the delivery of high-quality support programs.
• Active involvement in startup investment activities, either directly or through close collaboration with investors.
• A professional team, including at least two key members with over 7 years of experience in startup ecosystems.
• Operational capacity and access to a centrally located, well-connected venue for activities.
• Experience in organizing networking activities for startups and investors.
• The capacity to function as a trusted local Startup Ecosystem Agent for EIT Urban Mobility.
Program Activities
Selected Startup Ecosystem Agents will be responsible for implementing projects that reinforce both local ecosystems and EIT Urban Mobility’s European investment pipeline. These activities may include:
• Startup scouting and support
• Mentoring and knowledge-sharing activities
• Investment-related services
• Ecosystem events and networking
• Communication and visibility actions
• Market access support
Application Timeline
Key dates for the application and selection process are as follows:
• Call Opening: 21 January 2026
• Information Webinar: 5 February 2026
• Call Closure: 23 March 2026 (17:00 CET)
• Eligibility and Admissibility Check: Up to 1 week post-submission deadline
• Evaluation Period: Up to 3 weeks post-submission deadline
• Portfolio Selection: Tentatively during the week of 20–24 April
• Communication of Results: Tentatively during the week of 20–24 April
• Tentative Project Start Date: Approximately 1 month after the communication of results, expected in late May 2026.
Key Documentation
Applicants should consult the following documents for complete details:
• Main Documents:
• Call manual
• Application form guidance
• Project Budget 2027-2028 template (mandatory Excel attachment)
• Supporting Documents:
• Appeal Procedure
• Eligibility of expenditures
• Project Implementation handbook
• Financial Support Agreement (FSA) template
• EIT Urban Mobility Strategic Agenda 2021-2027
• Horizon Europe Annotated Grant Agreement (AGA)
This call presents a significant opportunity for established ecosystem builders to partner with a leading European initiative and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban mobility. Interested organizations are encouraged to review the provided documentation to understand the full scope of requirements and expectations for becoming a strategic partner.