COPILOT is an EIT HEI Initiative project committed to transforming Europe’s Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) into powerful engines of innovation in Sustainable Energy and Clean Technologies (SECT). Through strategic collaboration, tailored curricula, and inclusive innovation ecosystems, COPILOT bridges the gap between education, research, and industry — supporting startups, enhancing employability, and driving climate-friendly growth.
COPILOT envisions a thriving European innovation landscape where universities — from leading pioneers to underrepresented institutions — collaborate to drive Deep Tech entrepreneurship. Our long-term vision includes building sustainable, regionally rooted ecosystems where innovation flourishes and skilled professionals shape the clean energy future.
Our mission is to embed structural and cultural transformation in HEIs by strengthening institutional capacity, developing market-aligned SECT programs, and connecting students, researchers, and industry. Through cross-consortium courses, internships, and startup support, COPILOT builds a foundation for inclusive, long-term innovation leadership.
Transform academic structures to better support Deep Tech innovation.
Train 1500 students and 550 academics in emerging SECT technologies.
Help launch 30 startups and create 25 clean <tech jobs by 2030.
Discover how COPILOT is accelerating the transformation of Europe’s Higher Education Institutions through these impactful initiatives:
We implement a robust development strategy to guide institutions through structural and cultural change. This includes planning, coordination, and continuous monitoring of activities to ensure alignment with innovation goals and long-term sustainability.
COPILOT facilitates the co-design and transfer of cutting-edge SECT courses between experienced and emerging institutions. These curricula are aligned with market needs and promote entrepreneurship, sustainability, and deep tech competencies.
By offering mentoring, networking, and infrastructure support, COPILOT empowers students, researchers, and academics to launch and grow SECT startups — aiming to support 30 ventures and generate 25 new jobs by 2030.
COPILOT actively promotes inclusivity by targeting less-developed regions, addressing gender gaps, and involving underrepresented institutions. Our visibility campaigns ensure widespread awareness and adoption of project outcomes across Europe.
