The New European Bauhaus (NEB) is a visionary EU-backed initiative inviting all Europeans to create a future grounded in sustainability, inclusivity, and aesthetics. The NEB movement, supported by partners like EIT Food, EIT Manufacturing, EIT Urban Mobility, and led by EIT Climate-KIC, focuses on bringing these values to life through practical projects.
Catalyse NEB: A Step Towards Positive Change
In a world where profit often trumps societal benefit, the Catalyse NEB startup accelerator programme is a refreshing change. Launched last week in Leuven, Belgium, this programme features a remarkable group of 28 funded start-ups. These start-ups are not only aiming for economic success but also prioritizing societal well-being.
Core Principles and Support
Catalyse NEB places great importance on nurturing start-ups that align with its principles. This means recognizing the beauty in innovation, making it accessible and engaging for everyone. Each of the 28 start-ups will receive support services worth EUR 50,000, including:
- Programme-specific training based on NEB principles
- Leadership coaching and business mentoring
- Access to an innovation community
A Year of Growth and Opportunities
The year-long acceleration programme is packed with opportunities for learning and collaboration. Key highlights include:
- Climate impact forecasting
- Refining communication strategies
- Showcasing innovations at the Smart City Expo in November 2024
This expo will provide the cohort with a global platform to display their work, enhancing their visibility and impact.
Meet the 2024 Catalyse NEB Cohort
This year’s cohort is diverse, with projects ranging from sustainable fashion to innovative waste management. Here’s a glimpse into some of the start-ups:
Austria
- Freyzein: Plastic-free clothing using a unique, 100% cellulose-based fabric
- Vienna Textile Lab: Producing textile dyes from naturally occurring microorganisms
Belgium
- ToGatherHomes: Next-generation housing reducing cost, time, and carbon footprint
Denmark
- Naviblind: Helping the visually impaired navigate independently
- Urban Tree: Combining nature with social interaction
Estonia
- WasteLocker: Structured in-house waste management
Finland
- Ekotekt: Robotic 3D printing for precast concrete elements
France
- Istya: Customizable sensors for monitoring indoor air quality
Germany
- Footprint Intelligence: AI-based sustainability reporting platform
- Joy and Meal: On-site cooking experiences for families and corporate teams
- MycoLutions: Circular and healthy materials using mycelium
Hungary
- SpaceCrop: Satellite data and AI for better farming
Israel
- Maygia: Producing electricity and treating water using air and hydrogen
Italy
- Coffeefrom: Thermoplastic materials made from used coffee grounds
Portugal
- Hortee: Connecting consumers with local food producers
- Seenergy: Eco-friendly household items that store energy
- SuperSave: Price comparison app for Portuguese supermarkets
Romania
- Bluana: Plant-based seafood alternative
Spain
- Comunitaria: Balanced nutrition for vulnerable families
- Remonda: Bioplastics from fruit waste
- Volupte: Bespoke interiors celebrating sustainability
- Waisense: Solutions to save water across sectors
Netherlands
- Biosphere Solar: Modular and sustainable solar panels
United Kingdom
- Alga: Sustainable seaweed cultivation
- Boldr: Smart technology for reducing domestic energy use
- Eyeleaf: Plastic-free eyewear from fallen leaves
- farmz2u: Agricultural supply chain management
- IONA: Efficient delivery networks using drones and robotics
Looking Forward
The NEB initiative and the Catalyse NEB programme represent a significant push towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. By supporting innovative start-ups that embrace these values, they are laying the foundation for a better Europe. The journey is just beginning, and the potential for positive impact is immense.
