Validation program for

SCIENCE-BASED STARTUPS

from research to startup

DEADLINE: 3 March

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Are you a scientist, doctor, or employee of Utrecht University, UMC Utrecht, Hogeschool Utrecht, looking to transition your idea from research to market? Do you require business support for your feasibility study? UtrechtInc’s Science Validation Program, a free, part-time, 8-month program with workshops and coaching, could be the catalyst you need.

This tailored program equips you with essential business start-up knowledge, offering hands-on experience, and guidance from industry veterans.

Our 8-month, part-time Science Validation Program involves one to two mornings and/or afternoons per month with masterclasses, coaching and events to develop your entrepreneurial skills, validate your idea in the market and build a relevant network. You will also meet mentors and professional service partners providing personalized advice, navigating you through each step of the research validation journey.

Benefits of UtrechtInc's science validation program

Included

Mentorship & coaching – Personalized coaching and mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and executives, and group sessions with fellow startups.

Team development – We foster not just your business, but also your personal growth. We assist in building a well-rounded, complementary team.

Value proposition design – Work with your team to devise a compelling value proposition, crafting an irresistible offering for your customers.

Working space – A flex desk in our coworking space, or a dedicated office amongst other innovative startups.

Graduate network – Join our network of 350+ startups, benefit from access to our industry experts, and connect to relevant peers.

Pitch perfect – Regular opportunities to practice your pitch, ensuring you are primed to present your story compellingly whenever the opportunity arises.

Funding opportunities – Present your concept to the jury of the Rabo Pre-seed Fund, with potential access to a loan of up to €68,000.

Topics include

  • Validating your research in the market
  • Customer discovery
  • Business models
  • Pitching
  • Sales
  • Finance, Equity & Funding
  • Intellectual property
  • Culture & Talent
  • Grants & Subsidies

Cost & availability

  • The program is free for Utrecht researchers and scientists.
  • We run the validation programs twice per year.

Next edition

  • Application deadline: 3 March (midnight)
  • Selection of one-pagers: 4 March
  • Selection pitches: 6 March (before lunch)
  • Start date: 24 March
  • Final event: 11 December
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FAQ

  • I am a solo founder. Can I still apply?

    Yes, as a single founder you are allowed to apply to our programs. However, we are firm believers of strong and diverse teams, so we encourage you to start looking for team members as soon as possible. One of the ways we can help you is through our talent matching events.

  • Does UtrechtInc help me with investments and funding?

    UtrechtInc does not invest itself in startups. We have a large network of formal and informal investors and we have a good understanding of the funding landscape. Through UtrechtInc, program participants can apply for a soft loan from the Rabo Pre-seed Fund, for an amount up to €68,000.

 

  • What kind of startups are you looking for?

    UtrechtInc specializes in scalable technology innovations with a focus on health, sustainability, education and AI. If you are doubting whether or not your idea falls into one of these categories, please feel free to contact the UtrechtInc team.

  • Where will the program take place?

    UtrechtInc’s validation program takes place in our incubator which is located at Utrecht Science Park. This is the largest science park in the Netherlands, with the highest concentration of knowledge institutions within a small surface area. Besides that, the Utrecht region has the highest density of startups per capita in the Netherlands.

  • Does UtrechtInc take equity in my startup?

    UtrechtInc does not take equity in your startup. However, startups with a revenue over €150k, pay a small success fee in years 3,4 and 5 after participation in the program.