Applications for the 5th Edition are Now Open!

16/9/2024 Author: Natasja Marchese

Are you an ambitious founder aiming to make a real impact with your academic startup? The Academic Startup Competition (ASC) is back for its 5th edition, and it’s your chance to take your venture to new heights. Read on to learn how ASC is empowering founders across the Netherlands to refine their focus, expand their networks, and unlock valuable opportunities.

What is the Academic Startup Competition?

The Academic Startup Competition is a national initiative created through a collaboration of Techleap, Universiteiten van Nederland, NFU (Nederlandse Federatie van Universitair Medische Centra), Netherlands Academy of Engineering, Ministerie van Economische Zaken, the EWUU alliance (comprising TU/e, WUR, UU, and UMC Utrecht), ScaleNL, and Preneurz Amsterdam.

This program is dedicated to accelerating the growth of promising startups that emerge from Dutch universities, research institutes, and applied science institutions. Through ASC, selected founders get the support they need to hone their mission, scale their businesses, and create tangible impact across key sectors.

🔍 Who Should Apply?

ASC invites startups that are tackling the most pressing challenges of our time. This year’s competition focuses on ventures innovating in the following fields:

🩺 Transition in Healthcare & Wellbeing
Are you reimagining healthcare solutions or working on projects that enhance overall well-being? ASC is looking for pioneering startups ready to transform the healthcare landscape.

🌱 Transition in Agriculture, Food, and Water
Addressing sustainability challenges in agriculture, food production, or water management? If your startup is contributing to sustainable practices in these areas, ASC can support your mission.

♻️ Building New, Clean & Sustainable Industries
If you’re innovating in manufacturing, infrastructure, or resource management to build cleaner and sustainable industries, ASC could be a perfect match.

⚡️ Energy Transition
Founders working on renewable energy, storage solutions, or energy efficiency technologies are encouraged to apply. ASC is excited to support startups driving the global shift toward sustainable energy.

🫶 Towards an Equal, Diverse, Inclusive & Secure Society
Does your startup champion social equity, diversity, inclusivity, or cybersecurity? ASC is committed to fostering a society where these values are integral.

If your startup falls into one of these categories and you’re driven by innovation, impact, and academic insight, ASC could be the catalyst you need.

💡 How To Apply?

This year, ASC is accepting only nominated teams. If you’re a partner institution or part of a Dutch university, identify the top five academic startups from your institute that would benefit most from this competition. By nominating promising founders, you’ll play a crucial role in helping the next generation of academic entrepreneurs succeed.

🗓 Nomination Deadline: October 4, 2024.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of an impactful network. Nominate the ventures you believe have the potential to make a difference, and help foster the next wave of innovative solutions that the ASC supports.