Incubator overview
Through the incubation programme, we support high-potential early-stage science-driven startups (pre-seed and seed) with a tailored approach. We help transform promising projects stemming from the academic activities of USI, SUPSI and affiliated research partners into scalable ventures by assigning a dedicated startup coach and designing a customised strategic roadmap, focusing on the following key areas:
- Product-market fit
- IP strategy
- Fundraising
- Team & governance
- Setting up operations
- Communication strategy
Our team has developed a strategic coaching methodology to increase the investment readiness of scientific startups. Thanks to collaborations with market players, companies, and specialised professionals (advisors), we provide startups with the tools and support needed to advance the project development and reach the next milestones. We also offer specific programmes to help technologies transition from the laboratory to the market, assisting researchers and entrepreneurs in turning scientific results into commercial solutions and spreading the entrepreneurial culture on campus.
Given the significant number of startups in the Life Sciences and ICT sectors, we have created two dedicated pathways within the incubation programme. For ICT, the focus is on market testing to align product-market fit and business model development. For Life Sciences, the focus is on aligning strategic focus with R&D activities and securing the necessary funding to move the project to the next stage.
Incubation programme voucher
Candidates for incubation undergo a selection process based on scientific and market criteria. Every startup accepted into incubation receives an in-kind equity-free voucher worth CHF 60,000 that includes:
- Strategic coaching from the USI Startup Centre team to further develop the entrepreneurial project
- Guidance on external national and international financial support programmes for startups (grants and competitions)
- Connection to a network of qualified private investors (venture capitalists and business angels)
- Workspace (offices, open spaces, meeting rooms, conference rooms)
- Access to a network of external advisors, innovation players from Switzerland, supporting business development
- Dedicated events to meet investors and industry experts
- Connections to the scientific and technological activities at USI, SUPSI, and affiliated research partners
- Participation in selected industry events
- Entrepreneurial training modules and workshops for different stages of development