SolarHub IGNITION 2026

Open Acceleration Programme for Solar Energy Innovators


SolarHub IGNITION 2026 is the final edition of the SolarHub Acceleration Programme, supporting early-stage innovators working on solar energy solutions across Europe. The programme is part of the Horizon Europe SolarHub project, which connects solar innovation ecosystems in Greece and Türkiye and contributes to advancing the European Green Deal.

IGNITION 2026 welcomes students, researchers, startups, SMEs, and independent innovators who are developing ideas related to solar energy technologies, applications, and business models. Participants do not need a company, a prototype, or a detailed business plan to apply, a motivated team and a promising idea are enough.

Selected teams will gain access to the SolarHub ecosystem and benefit from training modules, coaching sessions, technical mentoring from solar energy experts, and networking opportunities with researchers, companies, and investors across Europe. Throughout the programme, teams will develop their ideas and prepare a pitch presentation showcasing their solution and its potential impact.

The best teams will be invited to present their work at the SolarHub Final Online Pitching Event and the SolarHub Final Conference in 2026, gaining visibility among industry stakeholders, investors, and the wider European solar innovation community.

Applications are open to teams from EU Member States and Horizon Europe Associated Countries


Programme Tracks

SolarHub IGNITION 2026 offers two participation tracks. Applicants may apply to one or both tracks depending on their idea.


Track A — Open Innovation

In this track, teams can apply with their own solar energy idea.

Your idea may involve:

  • a new technology
  • a digital solution
  • a solar energy application
  • a business model or service
  • an improvement to an existing solar system

Any idea related to solar energy, distribution, storage, digitalisation or applications of solar technologies is welcome.


There is no predefined challenge in this track. Teams are free to propose their own concept.

Track B — Challenge Response


In this track, teams develop solutions addressing real industrial or research challenges defined by SolarHub consortium partners.

These challenges reflect real problems faced by organisations working in solar energy technologies and deployment.

Examples of challenge areas include:

  • solar manufacturing optimisation
  • digital tools for agrivoltaics
  • solar heat integration in industrial processes
  • smart control systems for solar thermal technologies
  • grid integration of solar energy systems

Teams may choose to address one or more challenges as part of their application.


Why join IGNITION 2026?

Participants will receive:

A curated library of on-demand training content, accessible throughout the programme. Topics include:

  • Business Foundations for Solar Energy Startups
  • Market Analysis and Strategy
  • Business Model Development
  • Financial Planning and Management
  • Pitching and Communication Skills
  • ESG and Sustainability in Solar Energy
  • Technical modules on solar energy technologies (content defined by technical partners)

Access is self-paced. Teams are encouraged to complete a minimum of 2 modules. The Training Academy remains accessible for the duration of the programme.


Coaching and Mentoring

Every selected team is entitled to:

  • At least 1 coaching session (minimum 1.5 hours) with a SolarHub business coach (mandatory).
  • Up to 3 hours total of business coaching, available on request.
  • Up to 3 hours of technical mentoring with solar energy subject matter experts, available on request

All sessions are held online (video call). Teams book sessions through the programme coordinator after onboarding.

Two Column Table
Applicant Type Conditions
Student teams1 Minimum 2 members; must include at least one researcher or faculty supervisor
Research teams Affiliated with a recognised university or research institution; minimum 2 members
Individual innovators / entrepreneurs Must apply as a team of at least 2 people
Startups Any stage of development; legal entity not required
SMEs Fewer than 250 employees; working on solar energy

Geographic eligibility

Teams must be based in any EU Member State or country associated with the Horizon Europe programme.

Apply as an Expert

As part of our SolarHub Ignition Acceleration Program, we are seeking knowledgeable and passionate external experts to evaluate proposals and support our innovation teams and start-ups as business mentors and technical coaches for our upcoming open calls.

Experts will be reimbursed for their time and effort. All Business Mentors will be compensated with €50 per hour (€400 Daily Rate) for their services rendered to the program. This rate applies to hours spent on activities such as mentoring sessions, coaching, and any other activities directly related to their role.

SolarHub Ignition program anticipates 12 hours of business mentoring per research team or start-up. Business Mentors will be assigned to at least one research team or start-up by the SolarHub Ignition Program Team.

Timeline Deadline: 20 April, 2024

Their services will be required during the implementation phase of the acceleration program between 1 Jun 2024 – 30 Nov 2024.

Before you apply, make sure that you read the SolarHub Ignition Guide for Experts 2024

Deadline: 20 April, 2024
APPLY via F6S: https://www.f6s.com/solarhub-ignition-for-expert-2024/apply

SolarHub Ignition Acceleration Program

How to apply?

To apply for the SolarHub Acceleration Program, we're utilizing the F6S.com platform, a leading global online hub for startups, entrepreneurs, and accelerators. F6S.com is renowned for its extensive network and ease of use, offering a streamlined application process for programs like ours.

Here's how you can apply:

1. Visit https://www.f6s.com/solarhub-ignition-2024/apply: Start by navigating to the F6S.com website. If you're new to F6S, you'll need to sign up; if you already have an account, simply log in.

2. Create Your Profile: Once signed up, you'll be prompted to create a profile. For individuals, this involves providing some personal details and your professional background. For teams, you will create a team profile that includes information about your startup or project,including team members, your mission, and what you're working on. Ensure your profiles are as detailed and clear as possible to stand out.

3. Find the SolarHub Acceleration Program: Search for the SolarHub Acceleration Program within the F6S platform. You can find it under the accelerators section or by using the search function.

4. Complete the Application: Follow the instructions to fill out the application form. You'll be asked to provide information about your idea or startup, your team, and how you plan to leverage the SolarHub program to accelerate your growth. An application template with all the questions can be found at the end of the Guide. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

5. Submit Your Application: Once you're satisfied with your application, submit it through the platform. Make sure to review your application for completeness and accuracy before submission.