Scaling a startup into new European markets is a complex process, requiring a strong network, local knowledge, and strategic partnerships, along with navigating legal and regulatory challenges. The EIT Urban Mobility RIS Soft-Landing (SL) is designed to support startup expansion by connecting high-potential startups with expert networks in key RIS (Regional Innovation Scheme) countries, providing essential support to navigate local business ecosystems, establish strategic partnerships and explore new funding opportunities. In addition to this, doing so accelerates the potential for innovation.
Who should apply?
Mobility sector: Startups operating in key sectors such as public transport, shared mobility, logistics & freight, road safety, smart infrastructure, and sustainable energy solutions. Startups should offer practical, adaptable solutions that are not overly complex or infrastructure-heavy, with a focus on areas like micromobility, EV infrastructure, last-mile logistics, workplace mobility and mobility-as-a-service (MaaS).
Stage: Eligible startups should be at early-stage (minimum TRL5), growth-stage, or scale-up level, ideally with a tested prototype or prior validation in another market. Strong candidates will have a clear market fit, a unique value proposition and experience deploying successful pilots, making them well-positioned for startup expansion in new regions.
Success factors: Key success factors include a highly capable and committed team, openness to collaboration and a willingness to adapt solutions to local market needs. Startups should be ready to engage with public and private stakeholders, participate in pilot opportunities and leverage networking support for business development and startup expansion.
What can you get?
Through the RIS Hub Network, as orchestrated by European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), selected startups will gain tailored support to do the following:
- Establish a subsidiary in the target country.
- Build local partnerships with key ecosystem players.
- Join project consortia applying for national and European funding programmes.
- Access investment opportunities with local investors.
The programme offers a minimum two-month support period, with all activities to be completed by the end of December 2025. During this period, EIT Urban Mobility will facilitate matchmaking with expert partners based on each startup’s specific needs.
Key partners helping you land
With this initiative, selected startups have the opportunity to soft-land into the following countries with the following partners.
Green Brother – Hungary
A professional network for green tech and mobility innovators, helping startups enter domestic and international markets, secure investments, and reduce business risks.
Valletta Design Cluster and Project Aegle Foundation (PAF) – Malta
A collaborative hub for creative industries, supporting startups with product development, funding and strategic connections in design and innovation and a sustainable mobility NGO supporting traffic and environmental improvements through smart transport innovations.
CreateHub – Poland
A business development and funding expert, helping startups with fundraising, expansion and investor matchmaking.
BGI – Portugal
An accelerator providing global startups with knowledge, tools and networks to scale, leveraging deep US and European market expertise.
Iceberg+ and Activize.tech – Romania
A growth-focused incubator and accelerator, offering sustainable scaling solutions through interactive labs and ecosystem connections and a technology-driven platform helping startups in mobility and tech scale through mentorship, funding and strategic business optimization.
Sounds good, what’s next?
Great! This initiative is a unique opportunity to fast-track your expansion, gain access to expert support and unlock new business opportunities across Europe!
If your startup is ready to expand into one of these markets, submit your expression of interest before 7 April, outlining your expectations and preferred destination.
