EIT Food, headquartered in Heverlee, Belgium and founded in 2016, is an innovation community supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology. As a public-private partnership spanning universities, research centres, startups and industry, EIT Food focuses on transforming the food system to be healthier, more sustainable and more trusted, while delivering education and entrepreneurship opportunities across Europe.
The initiative runs education programmes, innovation projects and funding streams to support agrifood startups and research collaborations. With about fourteen structured programmes and a wide partner network, EIT Food helps learners and entrepreneurs develop skills in food technology, sustainability, business development and public engagement. Its activities include courses, accelerator programmes, research funding and cross-border initiatives that connect students, researchers and industry mentors.
International students and early-stage entrepreneurs interested in food systems, sustainability or agri-tech will find EIT Food a unique gateway to practical projects, mentorship and European networks. Participation can build applied skills, open pathways to startups and connect you to a consortium of leading institutions and companies. Explore EIT Food offerings to identify short courses, innovation challenges or collaborative projects that align with your interests in transforming the food sector.