Soft innovation prize 2026

The SOFT Innovation Prize 2026 aims to recognize and reward outstanding innovation in the field of fusion research, particularly in magnetic confinement fusion. The primary goal is to highlight excellence in both technological and scientific advancements that have the potential for market exploitation or have already attracted industrial interest. By showcasing these innovations, the European Commission seeks to promote the valorisation of fusion research, encourage a culture of entrepreneurship, and foster stronger innovation within the sector. The prize is intended to provide visibility to dynamic researchers, teams, and industrial participants, thereby stimulating further development and uptake of fusion-based technologies across scientific and industrial domains.

Eligibility for the SOFT Innovation Prize is open to researchers, research teams, and industrial participants who are eligible for funding under the Euratom Research and Training Programme 2021-2025, as well as those working for national programmes in ITER partner countries or in third countries with bilateral fusion cooperation agreements with Euratom. Applicants must secure permission from the owner of the relevant intellectual property rights and provide supporting documentation. The contest is managed by the European Commission, with independent experts judging submissions based on originality, technical excellence, and economic impact.

The impact of the SOFT Innovation Prize is multifaceted. It not only rewards individual and collective achievements but also enhances the visibility of fusion research innovations, encouraging their further development and market integration. The contest supports equal opportunities and actively encourages applications from women, aiming to promote gender balance in the nuclear field. Prize amounts are set at EUR 50,000 for first place, EUR 30,000 for second, and EUR 20,000 for third, providing significant incentives for participation and excellence.