28 start-ups announced for New European Bauhaus accelerator programme

The New European Bauhaus (NEB) is an EU-backed initiative that calls on all Europeans to shape an alternative future for the continent – built on the core principles of sustainability, inclusivity and aesthetics. 

Along with partners EIT Food, EIT Manufacturing, and EIT Urban Mobility, EIT Climate-KIC leads the EIT Community NEB, whose role is to support on-the-ground projects that embody the values of the NEB movement.

In a business landscape where profit margins often outweigh societal impact, the Catalyse NEB startup accelerator programme is an example of positive change. Launched last week at a special event in Leuven, Belgium, the programme features a record-setting cohort of 28 funded start-ups and represents a collaborative effort to support entrepreneurship that prioritises societal well-being alongside economic prosperity.

Integral to Catalyse NEB’s mission is its emphasis on nurturing start-ups that align with its core principles. In particular, the recognition of aesthetics and design beyond functionality allows the programme to highlight the beauty within innovation – making it more accessible and engaging for all.

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With support services worth a total of EUR 50 000, each of the 28 start-ups will benefit from a range of resources tailored to boost their growth and impact during the one-year acceleration programme. From programme-specific training based on the core NEB principles to leadership coaching, business mentoring and access to a vibrant innovation community, Catalyse NEB offers a fertile ground for start-ups seeking to become international game changers in an increasingly competitive market. 

The journey for this year’s Catalyse cohort is set to be an exciting one, full of opportunities for learning and collaboration. From forecasting their climate impact to refining their communication strategies, the programme offers a wealth of opportunities for growth and development.

Perhaps the most anticipated event on the calendar is the Smart City Expo in November 2024, where all 28 start-ups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations on a global stage. Through the programme, each member of the cohort will receive support to attend the event, further amplifying their visibility and impact.

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Meet the new Catalyse NEB cohort

From producing sunglasses made from fallen leaves to connecting consumers with local food producers, this year’s cohort spans 15 countries and is as diverse as it is innovative. Below, you can find links to each start-up’s website, as well as brief descriptions of the projects.

Austria

• Freyzein: Plastic-free clothing using a unique, 100% cellulose-based fabric
• Vienna Textile Lab: Producing textile dyes using naturally occurring microorganisms

Belgium

• ToGatherHomes: Next-generation housing that reduces cost, time and carbon footprint

Denmark

• Naviblind: Empowering the visually impaired to move independently
• Urban Tree: Innovative greening solution that combines nature with social interaction

Estonia

• WasteLocker: Informed and structured in-house waste management

Finland

• Ekotekt: Robotic 3D printing system to produce precast concrete elements

France

• Istya: Customisable sensors to monitor indoor air quality

Germany

• Footprint Intelligence: Sustainability platform for AI-based ESG reporting
• Joy and Meal: On-site cooking experiences for families and corporate teams
• MycoLutions: Developing circular and healthy materials using mycelium

Hungary

• SpaceCrop: Improving farming using satellite data and artificial intelligence

Israel

• Maygia: Producing electricity and treating water using air and hydrogen

Italy

• Coffeefrom: Producing thermoplastic materials from used coffee grounds

Portugal

• Hortee: Online marketplace connecting consumers with local food producers.
• Seenergy: Eco-friendly household items designed to harness and store energy.
• SuperSave: Price comparison app for Portuguese supermarkets.

Romania

• Bluana: Food-tech start-up creating a plant-based seafood alternative

Spain

• Comunitaria: Healthy and balanced nutrition for vulnerable families in the community
• Remonda: Creating bioplastics using the waste products of fruit
• Volupte: Bespoke interiors that celebrate individuality and sustainability
• Waisense: Set of physical and digital solutions to save water across sectors

Netherlands

• Biosphere Solar: Developing modular and sustainable solar panels

United Kingdom

• Alga: Researching sustainable seaweed cultivation for nutrition
• Boldr: Smart technology for lower domestic energy use
• Eyeleaf: Plastic-free eyewear, innovatively crafted from fallen leaves
• farmz2u: Supply chain management for agricultural value chains
• IONA: Creating efficient delivery networks with drones and robotics

As the new cohort of Catalyse startups begins their NEB journey, we invite you to follow their progress on the EIT Climate KIC LinkedIn channel, and we look forward to sharing updates later in the year!