Women TechEU has created the Allies network to extend support for women-led DeepTech startups across Europe. It brings together investors, technology companies, innovation organisations, media partners, EU projects and public institutions that can contribute connections, expertise, resources and visibility.
The initiative’s current programme aims to select 160 startups between 2026 and 2028. Each selected company is set to receive a non-dilutive grant of €75,000, alongside tailored mentoring, training, expert guidance, matchmaking and networking opportunities, and support in connecting with other European funding programmes.
Allies can contribute by mentoring founders, sharing business and funding opportunities, introducing startups to investors or corporate partners, and promoting women-led innovations through their networks. Participating organisations can also use the Women TechEU Partner-Hub to connect with startups and other European innovation stakeholders, and take part in events including investment sessions, corporate challenges and meetups.
The network includes investors Alma Angels, Antler and Playfair Capital. Technology and ecosystem organisations named among its members include Microsoft, FundingBox, Women in Tech, the Western Balkan Startup Alliance, allWomen, Impulse4Women and WomenTechIceland. Media and event partners include TechBBQ, Web Summit and Wolves Summit, while EIT Deep Tech Talent, PQreact and Ready2Scale are also part of the network.
Organisations interested in joining can register on the Partner-Hub and select the option to become an Ally. The Women TechEU Helpdesk says it will contact applicants within one week with further information and a Memorandum of Understanding. Once both parties sign the document, the organisation can participate in network activities.
The Partner-Hub serves both as the registration point for prospective Allies and as an online space for connecting with startups and other members of the Women TechEU community.
Sources: EU-Startups.