INNOVA Europe is a pan-European coalition dedicated to promoting responsible entrepreneurship among students and alumni. We host Europe’s leading academic startup competition, conduct insightful research, and organize impactful activities that empower the next generation to tackle today’s most pressing challenges.
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Academic institutions across Europe are welcome to join the INNOVA Europe coalition. If your university or business school is committed to fostering responsible entrepreneurship, you can express your interest through our contact form. We are actively expanding and open to new partnerships.
Startups and alumni ventures from our participating member schools are eligible to enter the annual INNOVA Europe Competition, one of Europe’s leading academic startup competitions. Each school conducts its own national selection process before finalists proceed to the INNOVA Grand Final.
Additionally, anyone passionate about sustainable and impactful innovation is encouraged to attend the INNOVA Grand Final, taking place in Berlin on September 5th, 2025. This event showcases the best of student entrepreneurship across Europe and offers a first look at our upcoming European Barometer for Responsible Entrepreneurship, launching in Q4 2025.
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At INNOVA Europe, we define responsible entrepreneurship as innovation that creates lasting, positive impact across society, the environment, and the economy. Our definition is grounded in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and grouped into three main pillars:
Environmental Transition
We support ventures that accelerate the shift to sustainable and regenerative practices—moving away from linear, resource-heavy models to circular and eco-conscious innovation.
Related SDGs:
Clean Water and Sanitation
Affordable and Clean Energy
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Life Below Water
Life on Land
Empowerment & Inclusion
We champion startups that drive social progress by promoting equality, access to opportunities, community building, and inclusive innovation.
Related SDGs:
No Poverty
Quality Education
Gender Equality
Reduced Inequalities
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Healthy Living & Holistic Well-being
We value entrepreneurship that promotes mental, emotional, physical, and environmental health—enabling people to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Related SDG:
Good Health and Well-being
This framework guides how we evaluate startups in our pan-European student and alumni entrepreneurship competition each year.