Open Horizons project introduces a novel approach to bridging funding and corporate networking gaps for women-led European startups in deep tech and digital. Although women business owners generate 10 % more revenue over five years, they receive less funding than men when raising capital. While the European Commission supports initiatives to address this disparity, one crucial aspect remains overlooked – corporates, which have distinct investment strategies.

The main goal of the project

Open Horizons project aims to significantly enhance the scalability and market reach of women-led European startups. Mainly by fostering a collaborative ecosystem with pan-European corporations. 

It will create and launch a full programme to:

• fund pilot projects,
• create growth opportunities,
• secure follow-on agreements with corporates.

Planned activities

The project’s structured approach includes:

• identification and formulation of corporate challenges,
• inclusive talent scouting across Europe,
• facilitation of funding,
• implementation of pilot projects within real-world corporate settings.

Post-pilot, the programme will focus on expanding growth opportunities for startups by connecting them with investment channels and helping negotiate commercial agreements for long-term collaborations.

Project consortium

Open Horizons initiative comprises of experienced partners: PEDAL Consulting, s.r.o. (the coordinator), SPLORO (experts on cascade funding), INNOVX (EIC Partner and leading Accelerator), and  MIGROS (a retail corporation with an established open innovation program).  

Corporates are also linked to the initiative as associated partners, such as e.g. Siemens Industry Software, Repsol and Stahl.