Nearly 80 Nominations for the Academic Startup Competition!

22/10/2024 Author: Natasja Marchese

The Academic Startup Competition (ASC) has officially received an overwhelming response, with almost 80 nominations from universities, incubators, research centers, and applied science institutes across the Netherlands! This is a testament to the incredible innovation happening throughout the country—and we’re excited to see these brilliant startups join us on a journey of growth, collaboration, and opportunity.

But there’s still time! We’re extending the chance for more impactful startups to participate. Partner institutions can still nominate their top five startups until October 31st. If your organization knows of any high-potential academic ventures, don’t hesitate to put them forward!

⏰ Next Steps: What’s Ahead for Nominees?

In the coming weeks, our team will connect with each nominee to gauge their interest in joining ASC’s latest edition. We’ve kept the application process streamlined and straightforward, ensuring nominees can secure their spots without hassle. Once onboard, these founders will embark on an exciting journey with ASC—designed to equip them with tools and networks for lasting success.

Your Journey to Innovation with ASC: Compete, Collaborate, Conquer!

Here’s a preview of what’s in store for selected startups:

Start with 40 Teams:
ASC begins with a dynamic cohort of 40 top teams from across the Netherlands, competing in three elimination rounds. Each stage will challenge startups to refine their ideas, sharpen their strategies, and stand out among the best.

Collaborate and Grow:
Our expert partners and advisors are dedicated to helping founders tackle their pain points head-on. Through guidance, feedback, and insights, startups will gain clarity on their mission and direction.

Learn and Interact:
Every phase is packed with learning opportunities. Participants will engage in workshops, sessions, and mentoring that will elevate their business acumen and help them navigate the startup ecosystem.

Reach the Final 10:
The journey culminates with the top 10 teams securing an exclusive discovery trip to the USA, where they’ll connect with some of the brightest minds and top investors in Silicon Valley, courtesy of ScaleNL.

💡 Why Nominate?

By nominating a high-potential startup, you’re opening doors to a transformative experience. ASC offers founders the tools, resources, and networks to scale faster and make a bigger impact. If you know a startup that has the potential to transform their field and create lasting change, help them get the support they deserve by nominating them today.

With just a few days left to submit nominations, we encourage all partner institutions to rally around their most promising teams. This is more than a competition—it’s a journey to create a better, more sustainable future through academic innovation.

Ready to nominate? Let’s make this the best ASC yet!