EIT Food Accelerator Network announced the launch of the 2025 Supernovas Rocket Up programme, which is now accepting applications for its 2025 cohort. This initiative offers a unique internationalisation opportunity for women-led tech startups, allowing them to expand into new European markets. For the first time, the initiative is open to ventures outside Europe, allowing female entrepreneurs from around the world to scale their businesses into new European markets.
The six-month programme provides tailored support for startups aiming to expand internationally, guiding them through market selection, strategic planning and execution. Participants will have access to expert mentorship, networking opportunities and strategic guidance to navigate the complexities of European expansion.
Supernovas Rocket Up Structure and Support
Rocket Up is structured in three phases. In the first three months, startups will identify the most promising European markets by analysing customer needs, regulations, competition, and pricing. They will also execute a validation strategy to prioritise their expansion destinations.
The next phase focuses on strategic planning, covering essential aspects such as product localisation, marketing, distribution channels and regulatory compliance. Startups will develop a comprehensive market entry strategy, ensuring they are equipped to operate effectively in their chosen regions.
Participants benefit from a combination of group training, personalised mentorship, and industry networking. The programme includes expert-led sessions on international expansion, one-on-one mentoring with business and regional advisors, and opportunities to connect with investors and potential partners. Startups also gain visibility through the EIT Community’s communication channels and receive guidance on accessing additional financial support.
Key Dates and Participation Details
The call for applications opens on February 10, 2025, and will close on March 31, 2025. The Rocket Up programme officially launches on May 20, 2025, with a kick-off event in Rotterdam, aligning with the Upstream Festival. The final stage, Demo Day, will take place on November 18, 2025, in Helsinki, coinciding with the Slush Conference.
Rocket Up will select 12 to 16 startups for its 2025 edition. European startups may qualify for sponsorship, with the top-ranked ventures receiving full financial support. Those outside Europe must cover the full participation fee of €16,000 (USD 16,761). Attendance at both the Rotterdam and Helsinki events is mandatory, with participants responsible for their travel and accommodation costs.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
To qualify, applicants must be women-led startups, meaning a female founder or CEO must be part of the leadership team. Companies must be classified as SMEs and have at least three full-time employees. Eligible startups should focus on sectors aligned with EIT Urban Mobility, EIT Food, or EIT Manufacturing, including areas such as city logistics, sustainable agriculture, digital traceability, and human-machine collaboration.
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Applications must be submitted in English, and the female representative of the company must be fluent in spoken English. A commercial track record of at least €100,000 (USD 104,797) in revenue for 2024 is preferred but not mandatory. Startups currently participating in other EIT acceleration programmes are ineligible.
The application process involves multiple evaluation phases, including an eligibility check, an online assessment by a panel of experts, and a final interview round. The highest-ranked applicants will be selected based on factors such as innovation, market potential, scalability and internationalisation capacity.
A Platform for Growth and Expansion
Rocket Up aims to bridge the gap for women entrepreneurs seeking international growth. By combining academic insights, expert mentorship and direct market access, the programme equips startups with the necessary tools to establish a strong foothold in Europe. With a structured approach to internationalisation and access to a vast network of industry experts, Rocket Up 2025 presents a unique opportunity for women-led startups to scale their ventures in the European market.
