εnnovation is a yearly University Competition on Entrepreneurship and Innovation with a four-month duration. The competition is run by a network of 20+ universities in Greece and Cyprus under the coordination of the ACE.
The main objective of εnnovation is to accelerate innovative “University Born” ideas by providing the participants with the knowledge, skill set, tools, and confidence required to turn them into action. The program is specifically designed for university students at all levels, from undergraduates to master’s and PhD candidates, as well as academic researchers, empowering them to turn their business ideas or research into sustainable ventures.
The entrepreneurial teams that enter the εnnovation competition are divided by the organizing committee into three distinct streams according to their maturity:
The Youth Stream
Primarily aimed at undergraduate students who are at the idea stage and wish to explore the entrepreneurial journey for the first time.
The Entrepreneurship Stream
Aimed at more developed teams with validated concepts or early prototypes.
The Research Stream
Aimed at research teams seeking to commercialize scientific outcomes or bring deep-tech innovations to market.
At a Glance
- Years of Implementation 18
- Entrepreneurial Ventures Every Year 100+
- Participants Every Year 300+
- Universities Actively Involved 23+
- Awarded in the Finals all these years € 100K
- Research Teams 30%
Why Participate?
Education & Mentoring
Gain access to specialized workshops and guidance from experienced mentors and industry professionals.
Develop Your Idea
Receive support in shaping and refining your business model.
Networking & Collaborations
Connect with other innovative teams and gain exposure to investors and business partners.
Cash Prizes & Support
Compete for cash prizes, access incubators, and receive further assistance to implement your idea.
Competition Structure
The competition consists of three main phases, which include the open call period, a series of workshops and deliverables, the coaching and mentoring sessions for all participating teams, as well as the pitching events.
Applications Open
8th of December 2025
End of submissions
10th of March 2026
Team auditions
February – March 2026
Announcement of qualified teams
16th of March 2026
Online Kick-Off Event - Phase B
17th of March 2026
*mandatory online participation from at least one member of each team
Coaching, Mentoring, Online Workshops & Deliverables
March – April 2026
Rehearsal of Pitching - Phase B
23rd of April 2026
*mandatory on-site (ACE premises, Troias 2, 113 62, Athens) participation from at least one member of each team
Pitching Event - Phase B
24th of April 2026
*mandatory on-site (ACE premises, Troias 2, 113 62, Athens) participation from at least one member of each team
Announcement of qualified teams - Phase C
27th of April 2026
Coaching & Mentoring
June 2026
Rehearsal of Pitching - Phase C
28th of May 2026
*mandatory on-site (ACE premises, Troias 2, 113 62, Athens) participation from at least one member of each team
Pitching Event & Award Ceremony - Phase C
29th of May 2026
*mandatory on-site (Specific Location TBA, Athens) participation from at least one member of each team
Proudly Supported By
Who Can Participate?
Are you ready to turn your innovative idea into reality?
εnnovation is open to
- Students
Undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students
- Researchers
Young researchers and scientists who wish to commercialize research findings.
- Startups
Startups and entrepreneurial teams in the early stages of development.
How to Apply
- Form
Complete the application form
- Submit
Submit your proposal according to the guidelines.
- Journey
Get ready to embark on an exciting innovation journey!