Venture Builder Incubator

Online workshops and events for PG students and research staff focused on digital and science-based ideas and innovations.

We are looking to work with motivated individuals and teams eager to test their ideas that address real world challenges by using digital technology.

The programme offers the opportunity to be at the heart of a vibrant community and to develop life-long professional and entrepreneurial skills.

Funding: access to a share of £100K

Transform Ideas into Reality: the Venture Builder Incubator specialises in helping researchers bridge the gap between academia and entrepreneurship, guiding participants to develop a robust commercialisation and funding strategy.

Expert Guidance: Benefit from the mentorship and introductions to potential customers and investors in our network

Specialist Streams: Programme includes sessions for innovations driven by hardware (e.g.robotics and autonomous systems). We also provide tailored support for oncology and other health projects. (Thanks to funding researchers working in these areas from across the UK are welcome to apply.)

Access to Networks: Connect with a dynamic community of like-minded individuals. Forge valuable relationships, expand your professional network, and unlock endless collaboration opportunities

Entrepreneurial Education: Develop essential entrepreneurial skills through our tailored workshops and seminars. Acquire the knowledge necessary to navigate the competitive start-up landscape with confidence.

Who should apply?

We encourage applications from postgraduate students (Masters, PhDs) and researchers from all disciplines across the University of Edinburgh.

Recent alumni with innovative ideas, are also welcome to apply.

Applicants may be solo founders or Teams.While the programme is open to all sectors, we provide special support for projects using hardware, e.g. robotics and autonomous systems, as well as tech-driven health and social care startups.

Thanks to our continuing partnership with Cancer Research Horizons and support via Barclays Eagle Labs Ecosystem Partnership Programme, applications are welcome from teams outside of the University of Edinburgh who are interested in commercialising projects focused on oncology and other NCDs (non-communicable diseases).

When will the next programme start?

VBI 5.0 will run from the end of October until the middle of March 2025 with a break over the Christmas holiday period.

When is the deadline for applications?

Applications are currently closed but will reopen next year.

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