European Prize for Women Innovators 2026 celebrates visionary women

The European Commission revealed yesterday the winners of the 12th edition of the European Prize for Women Innovators at the European Innovation Council (EIC) Summit in Brussels. The award honours the groundbreaking contributions of women entrepreneurs whose innovations are driving progress and strengthening Europe’s competitive edge in the global economy.

From pioneering advancements in healthcare and sustainability to revolutionising space technology and digital traceability, this year’s finalists exemplify the transformative power of women-led innovation.

The prize showcases the remarkable achievements of winners and runners-up across three categories: 1) ‘EIC Women Innovators’, for exceptional women founders and co-founders from EU Member States and Associated Countries of Europe’s multi-billion-euro programme Horizon Europe; the ‘EIC Rising Innovators’, for promising young women innovators under 35; and the ‘EIT Women Leadership’, for exceptional members of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology – EIT Community.

Source: European Commission