As the InnoNext programme kicks into gear, the first internships facilitated by this EIC Business Acceleration Services’ initiative are already proving the strength of the model connecting highly qualified researchers with European start-ups and SMEs to accelerate innovation across key sectors.
In just a few weeks, several impactful matches have emerged, transforming InnoNext’sinitial intent into real-world collaboration to boost European innovation. Read on to discover our first success stories, showing what’s possible when mission-driven talent meets the right opportunity.
Deep-tech meets drive: Sarthak and Compular
Sarthak, master's student in Smart Electrical Networks and Systems recently started his internship at Compular, a deep-tech start-up from EIC Accelerator building advanced solutions in computational chemistry.
The platform made finding this role incredibly easy, he says. The onboarding was fast and efficient. The team was always available and kept everything on track. It gave me real confidence from the start.
Sarthak is now part of a highly motivated team, working on cutting-edge technology while gaining exposure to a tightly connected innovation environment. His goal? To contribute meaningfully, grow professionally, and expand his European network.
From food systems to AI: Nicolas and CinSOIL
Nicolas, a researcher from EIT Food, joined InnoNext with a clear vision: integrate AI into his career journey. He found a match in CinSOIL, a start-up working at the intersection of biotechnology, AI and sustainable agriculture. Nicolas shared:
The platform’s user-friendliness made the experience smooth and straight to the point.
Over six months, Nicolas will support CinSOIL in developing faster, more accessible soil diagnostics for the agri-food sector.
From the company’s perspective, the experience has been equally valuable. Dr. Tavseef Mairaj Shah, co-founder of CinSOIL, noted: “We received applications within 24 hours. The system works—fast, effective, and designed to match talent with ecosystem experience.”
InnoNext: The value of early impact
Each of these stories reflects what InnoNext was designed to do:
- Bridge the gap between research and entrepreneurship,
- Empower researchers to apply their knowledge in dynamic settings,
- Support start-ups and SMEs as they scale innovation in Europe.
More than a platform, InnoNext is a strategic tool: —one that helps translate European research excellence into tangible results.
Don’t miss out!
The InnoNext platform is still open and active. New matches are forming every week. Whether you're a startup seeking fresh expertise or a researcher ready to apply your skills in a real-world context, now is the time to act.
Apply or post your opportunity now at: www.innonext-project.eu
Let your research go further — with InnoNext.
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InnoNext is an initiative of the EIC Business Acceleration Services.
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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided in the interest of knowledge sharing and should not be interpreted as the official view of the European Commission, or any other organisation.