This programme aims to support the creation of new ventures in the  architecture and cultural heritage sectors.

EIT Culture & Creativity launches its 2025 call for applications for the Spark – Incubation Programme, designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage innovators in the architecture and cultural heritage sectors. 

The programme offers individuals and teams the opportunity to develop their business ideas, validate their market potential, build a minimum viable product (MVP), and compete for financial prizes at the Demo Day. 

To learn more about the application process, watch the recording of our Q&A here.

Timeline

  • Call opening: 6 May 2025
  • Application deadline: 11 July 2025, at 17:00 CET
  • Communication of results to applicants: Mid-August 2025
  • Programme start: Mid-September 2025
  • Programme duration: 8–10 weeks
  • Demo Day: at the end of the programme (December 2025), in an EU country to be decided

Total estimated EIT funding allocated to this call

Financial Prizes

Top-performing participants will receive prizes awarded at the Demo Day:

  • 1st Prize (x2): €10,000
  •  2nd Prize (x3): €7,500
  •  3rd Prize (x3): €5,000

The maximum EIT funding for prizes in this call is €57,500.

Who can apply?

Individuals (students, recent graduates, researchers, professionals) or teams (up to 3 people) based in an EU Member State or a Horizon Europe-associated country. No company registration is required at application stage, but a legal entity must be established before the Demo Day to be eligible for financial prizes. 

Ideas must target Architecture or Cultural Heritage, with a strong innovation potential. 

How to apply 

  1. Read the full Call Guidelines and check eligibility (documents provided below).
  2. Complete and submit your application via the EIT Culture & Creativity application platform. 
  3. If selected, register a legal entity and fully participate in the programme to qualify for the Demo Day and prize competition. 

For more information, please visit here: https://eit-culture-creativity.eu/incubation-programme-2025/