June 4, 2026
The HARD2SCALE Accelerator Programme has officially launched its Open Call for Cohort 2, inviting startups and SMEs developing innovative solutions for the Materials & Resource Industries to apply for one of Europe’s most ambitious industrial innovation support programmes.
As a partner in the HARD2SCALE project, INNOVA is proud to support the next generation of innovators addressing critical challenges facing Europe’s heavy industries and resource-intensive sectors.
Supporting the Industrial Transition
Materials and resource industries are fundamental to Europe’s economy, yet they face increasing pressure to decarbonize operations, improve resource efficiency, embrace circular economy principles, and remain globally competitive.
HARD2SCALE was created to bridge the gap between innovative startups and industrial stakeholders, helping promising technologies move beyond early-stage development and into real-world industrial applications.
The second cohort focuses on startups and SMEs developing solutions for sectors including:
- Cement
- Steel
- Aluminium
- Glass
- Pulp & Paper
- Metals
- Advanced Materials
The programme is particularly interested in innovations addressing:
- Industrial decarbonisation
- Energy efficiency
- Circular economy solutions
- Resource recovery and recycling
- Advanced materials
- Industrial digitalisation
- Process optimisation
- Carbon monitoring and emissions management
- Regulatory and compliance support technologies
What Selected Startups Will Receive
Participants selected for Cohort 2 will gain access to a comprehensive acceleration programme designed specifically for hard-to-abate industries. Benefits include:
- Industrial Validation Opportunities: Startups will connect directly with industrial players and explore opportunities for pilot projects, testing, and validation in real operational environments.
- Expert Mentoring: Participants will receive tailored support from industry experts, innovation specialists, investors, and business development professionals.
- Investor Matchmaking: The programme facilitates introductions to investors and funding opportunities aligned with industrial innovation and deep-tech ventures.
- International Visibility: Startups will become part of a European innovation ecosystem and gain exposure through networking events, industry engagement activities, and project communications.
Apply for the Accelerator Programme here: https://www.f6s.com/hard2scale/connect
Read more: https://hard2scale.eu/acceleration-programme/
Join the HARD2SCALE Cohort 2 Info Day
To help potential applicants better understand the programme and application process, HARD2SCALE is organizing an online Information Day.
Event Details
📅 Date: 9 June 2026
🕓 Time: 16:00 CET
💻 Format: Online
During this one-hour session, participants will gain:
- A clear overview of the Cohort 2 scope and timeline
- Detailed information about eligibility requirements
- Insights into the support available for selected startups
- Guidance on preparing a strong application
- The opportunity to ask questions directly during a live Q&A session
Register for the Info Day here:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/UTP3V0hcTMCbqKB-hjJ9CA#/registration
