European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Impact Study 2026

A study published in February 2026 shows that the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), through its support of innovation ecosystems, delivers strong and measurable impact for Europe’s competitiveness in areas such as sustainable energy and digitalisation. The findings come at a time when Europe is seeking tangible returns on its investments.

The study finds that the EIT – an EU body that created ten thematic Knowledge and Innovation Communities (KICs) – has generated substantial economic and societal benefits for Europe through its unique innovation model. It shows strong contributions by the EIT to innovation-based growth in areas that are EU policy priorities. The study focusses in particular on financial leverage, i.e., how EU funds allocated by the EIT to its Innovation Communities lead not only to direct economic and societal impact, but also create significant leverage as they mobilise significant amounts of further private and public funds.  

It also highlights the impacts on candidate countries, i.e. Western Balkans.

Results for Europe: jobs, skills and social benefits 

The EIT is Europe’s largest innovation ecosystem, connecting education, research and business to turn public investment into lasting economic and social impact. Through the support of its innovation communities, EIT-backed companies grow faster and survive longer than the European average.

The study demonstrates that after receiving EIT support: 

• Ventures have attracted €15.7 billion in external investment, significantly multiplying EIT funding. 

• Companies have more than doubled their revenues on average. 

• Over 90% remain active, far above typical European startup survival rates. 

• Nearly half qualify as high-growth companies, compared with fewer than one in five across the EU. 

• In 2023 alone, EIT-supported companies supported over 92 000 jobs across Europe. 

Beyond economic performance, the study also highlights further results of the EIT in education and skills, as well as examples of societal impact: 

• The EIT reduces the European skills and innovation gaps by combining technology and entrepreneurship training. Graduates of EIT programmes report strong outcomes, with two in three indicating significant skills gains, and one in four going on to found or join a startup company. 

• The EIT ensures presence on the ground through hubs also in EU Member States with lower innovation capacity as well as EU Candidate Countries through the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme. This system of innovation hubs within the EIT Community provides access to all its programmes across Europe and increases participation, according to the study.  

• The study also shows how the EIT strongly contributes to Europe’s green and digital transition. This includes supporting more than 100 regions across Europe to adapt to changes in climate conditions, reaching up to 53 million people. The EIT also contributes to EUR 9.1 billion in energy cost savings. In addition, EIT-sponsored activities have helped provide improved energy access to over 503 000 households.

For more information, quotes and access to the study, please refer to the source page of this announcement: New Study Confirms EIT’s Impact in Strengthening Europe’s Competitiveness | EIT

You can also refer to the factsheet the full report and the Press Release.