The SolarHub Project, in collaboration with the Federation of Industries of Greece (SBE), has launched the SolarHub SYNERGIES 2026 Open Innovation Challenges, inviting innovators from across Europe to contribute solutions to real industrial challenges in the renewable energy sector.
The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between industry and the European innovation ecosystem by bringing together businesses, public organizations, startups, scale-ups, research institutions, and individual researchers. Through this open innovation framework, participants will have the opportunity to develop and validate solutions addressing key challenges in photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, agrivoltaics, and electrical grid integration.
Currently, seven industry-driven energy challenges are seeking innovative solution providers.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcome from:
- Startups
- SMEs
- Scale-ups
- Research teams and research centres
- University spin-offs
- Independent researchers
Proposals may include innovative products, services, prototypes, methodologies, or other solution concepts. Applications at any Technology Readiness Level (TRL) are eligible, provided they demonstrate realistic development potential during the Validation Stage.
Benefits for Selected Solution Providers
Successful applicants will receive:
- Direct collaboration opportunities with Challenge Owners and technical experts;
- Access to SolarHub pre-designs and technical documentation;
- Coaching and mentoring throughout the Bootcamp and Validation Stage;
- The opportunity to present their solution at the final event in Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Eligibility for a €5,000 cash prize;
- Access to the SolarHub network for future projects, partnerships, and consortium-building activities.
Key Dates
📅 10 July 2026 – Submission deadline
📅 25 July 2026 – Announcement of evaluation results
📅 14–18 September 2026 – Bootcamp
📅 18 September – 4 December 2026 – Validation Stage
📅 9 December 2026 – Final Pitching Event (Thessaloniki, Greece)
📅 16 December 2026 – Award Ceremony
How to Apply
Interested participants should register on the platform, select one of the available challenges, and submit their proposal by 10 July 2026.
Further Information
For additional information, please visit the SBE website or contact:
Ms. Kyriaki Konstantinou
📧 konstantinou@sbe.org.gr
📞 +30 2310 539817 (ext. 143)
The detailed challenge descriptions, application guidelines, and submission platform are available through the SolarHub SYNERGIES 2026 initiative.