Open Call for Start-ups & SMEs
Got an innovation for the construction sector?
Take it to the European level
Join the EXCEL4HOUSING4.0 Open Innovation Programme and connect your innovative solution with organisations across Europe.
Application Deadline: 29 May 2026, 17:00 Brussels time
Is this for you?
This programme is designed for:
- Start-ups and SMEs
- Working in construction, housing, or related sectors
- With an innovative product, service, or technology
- Looking to grow, gain visibility, and connect with partners across Europe
If you want to take your solution beyond your local context, this programme is for you.
What is this programme?
The EXCEL4HOUSING4.0 Open Innovation Programme connects innovative companies with organisations looking for solutions.
These organisations include:
- Companies
- Public authorities
- Research organisations
- Education and training providers
The goal: to support the visibility, collaboration, and uptake of innovative solutions across Europe.
What do you gain?
Visibility across Europe
Showcase your solution to a targeted European audience.
Direct connections
Meet organisations interested in solutions like yours.
Pitch your innovation
Present your solution at a European pitch event and compete for the €7,500 excellence award.
What kind of solutions can apply?
You must apply under one of the following thematic areas:
Digitalisation in construction
Solutions that improve productivity, coordination, transparency, or decision-making through digital technologies.
Circular economy and resource efficiency
Solutions that support sustainable use of materials and circular practices in construction and renovation.
Energy efficiency and net-zero housing
Solutions that improve energy performance and reduce the environmental impact of buildings.
How it works
1. Apply
Complete the online application form in English. Deadline: 29 May 2026, 17:00 Brussels time.
2. Evaluation
Applications assessed on: relevance, innovation level, impact & scalability, team capacity, and sustainability. Up to 30 companies selected (max 10 per thematic area).
3. Join the programme
Present your solution at a European pitch event in October 2026 and connect with potential partners.
4. Pitch and award
Present to a jury. The best pitch wins the €7,500 excellence award.
Timeline
- Call opens: 26 March 2026
- Application deadline: 29 May 2026
- Evaluation period: June – July 2026
- Notification of results: July 2026
- Pitch event: October 2026
Who can apply?
- Start-up or SME applying as a single legal entity
- Legally established in an EU Member State, a country associated with Erasmus+ (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, North Macedonia, Serbia, or Türkiye), or Ukraine
- Working in construction, housing, or related value chains
- Submitting only one application under one thematic area
Important to know
- Free to participate
- This is not a funding or procurement call
- Participation does not guarantee contracts or pilot projects
- You keep full ownership of your solution and intellectual property rights
- Applications are treated as confidential and processed in line with GDPR
Open Innovation Programme Call
Apply Now
Complete the form below to submit your application before 29 May 2026.
Need help?
Eric Kota
Open Innovation Programme Responsible
BGT Consulting Group (Belgium)
eric.kota@bgtconsultinggroup.com
