EIT Food innovators nominated in 2026 EIT Awards for shaping Europe’s future
Each year, the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) celebrates entrepreneurs, innovators and teams from across its community whose work addresses societal challenges and helps shape a more innovative and competitive Europe. This year, 19 nominees across 13 countries are in the running for four categories: the EIT Changemaker Award, EIT Innovation Team Award, EIT Venture Award, and the EIT Public Award.
Meet the EIT Food nominees
Two members of the EIT Food community have been nominated for the 2026 EIT Awards, recognised for their different approaches to building a more resilient food system.
Kokomodo nominated for the EIT Venture Award
Kokomodo (Israel), an alumnus of the EIT Food Accelerator Network and RisingFoodStars communities, is developing a new way to produce real cacao by cultivating plant cells in a controlled environment. Its approach aims to reduce land and water use and reliance on climate-sensitive plantation farming, while preserving cacao’s flavour and naturally occurring bioactive compounds. Kokomodo’s process has achieved 89% lower greenhouse gas emissions – creating a scalable pathway to fair and responsible sourcing.
The EIT Venture Award recognises successful startups within the EIT Community that address societal challenges and demonstrate strong growth potential.
Matteo Mazzola nominated for the EIT Changemaker Award
Matteo Mazzola (Italy), a farmer and agroecologist, is exploring how agriculture can help restore the ecosystems it depends on. At Iside Farm, which he co-founded, he combines regenerative farming, soil restoration, biodiversity and community-based agriculture. Having participated in the Regenerative Agriculture Programme and then the RAW/ScaleUp learning pathways, Matteo has created “a more systemic ecosystem of training, consultancy, dissemination and farmer-to-farmer learning”.
The EIT Changemaker Award highlights leaders within the EIT Community whose activities and achievements generate significant social impact.
Celebrating innovation across the EIT community
The winners will be announced at the EIT Awards ceremony on 2 December 2026 in Budapest, Hungary. Audiences will also be able to follow the event online.