The AquaSphere project opens applications for the 2026 edition of IDEAS, a 6-week venture support programme for university students with an early-stage idea in the blue economy, maritime or sustainability fields. Deadline: 22 October 2026.
The AquaSphere project has opened applications for the IDEAS Programme 2026. IDEAS is a 6-week venture support programme for university students with an early-stage business idea in the blue economy, maritime or sustainability fields.
After the 2025 edition, IDEAS comes back to help students move from an initial concept to a structured venture. Participants work on their business model and go-to-market strategy, supported by entrepreneurs, business experts and investors.
Who can apply
- Bachelor, Master and PhD students from Higher Education Institutions or associate partner universities and organisations
- Individual applicants and teams
What participants receive
- Mentorship from entrepreneurs, business experts and investors
- Access to venture development templates and prototyping tools
- Connection to a pan-European network of universities, industry and innovation hubs
- A peer learning community
- Support refining their business model and go-to-market strategy
- An EIT Certificate of participation
Key information
📅 Application deadline: Thursday 5th of November (midnight CET)
👉 Apply here: https://wkf.ms/4gPwUjc
Follow the campaign and programme updates on the AquaSphere LinkedIn page.
IDEAS Programme is part of the EU-funded AquaSphere project under the EIT HEI Initiative.