#Gen_E 2026 is bringing together Europe’s next generation of entrepreneurs in Riga, Latvia, celebrating young people who are turning ideas into solutions with real business, social and innovative impact. The Online Awards are a key part of that journey, recognising standout JA student companies across themes such as growth, sustainability, STEM, inclusion, intellectual property and market expansion. This year’s winners reflect the energy, creativity and ambition of young entrepreneurs across the JA network, and they will now continue their Gen‑E journey toward the on-site festival in July.
What are the Online Awards?
The Online Awards celebrate the strongest ideas submitted by JA teams before the festival in Riga, with partner organisations recognising excellence in specific areas of entrepreneurship. Winning teams receive tickets for up to 4/5 representatives to attend Gen-E 2026 in Riga, where they can network, join festival activities, apply for Get in the Ring and take part in the on-site student Expo on 9 July. The awards are designed to highlight both innovation and impact, while giving young entrepreneurs a bigger platform to showcase their work.
2026 Winners
Entrepreneurial Journey of Growth Award, Sponsored by Euroclear Foundation
The Entrepreneurial Journey of Growth Award recognises Gen‑E teams that show remarkable progress in developing their business idea, from first concept to a venture ready to grow. This year’s winner is BIOCABA from JA Spain.
Check out the announcement!
NN Social Innovation Award
The NN Social Innovation Award recognises ventures that respond to real social needs and create positive change for individuals and communities. The winners are 1. INTERDORM – JA Czech Republic, 2. NEIGHBORLY FAVOURS – JA Poland, and 3. EPIEAR – JA Hungary.
Check out the announcement!
Europen Market Expansion Award
The Europen Market Expansion Award recognises teams with the ambition and strategy to take their business beyond their home market and grow across Europe. The winner is Algebo.ai from JA Romania.
Check out the announcement!
Schneider Electric Foundation Award
The Schneider Electric Foundation Award celebrates innovative ideas that contribute to a more sustainable future and encourage responsible thinking around energy and resources. The winner is Vivo from JA Romania.
Check out the announcement!
PMIEF Best Application of Project Management Award
The PMIEF Best Application of Project Management Award recognises teams that have applied project management throughout the lifecycle of their venture, showing strong planning, organisation, innovation and execution. The winner is Calmoria from JA Poland.
Check out the announcement!
J&J Brilliant STEM Innovation Award
The J&J Brilliant STEM Innovation Award recognises teams that use science, technology, engineering and mathematics to create innovative solutions with positive community impact. The winner is InsighteED from JA Romania.
Check out the announcement!
EUIPO Youth IP Awareness Award