Deadline: 03-Feb-2026
The Venture Challenge Spring Edition 2026 supports early-stage life sciences and health innovators to transform scientific discoveries into market-ready ventures. Selected teams receive €100,000 in funding, plus intensive guidance over 8–10 weeks to develop a solid business plan, establish a start-up, and accelerate the translation of therapies, diagnostics, or medical technologies to market.
The Venture Challenge Spring Edition 2026 is a targeted programme for early-stage entrepreneurs in life sciences and health seeking to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and market application. Many promising research outcomes fail to reach patients due to limited entrepreneurial experience; this programme provides structured support to overcome those barriers.
Program Objectives
• Transform scientific discoveries into viable commercial ventures
• Shorten time-to-market for new therapies, diagnostics, and medical technologies
• Support the setup of new companies led by research teams
• Develop solid business plans grounded in scientific innovation
• Provide mentorship and guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and business developers
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible participants include:
• Teams of 3–4 members intending to establish a new start-up
• Inclusion of the scientist responsible for the discovery
• Optional advisors, such as Knowledge Transfer Office business developers, may supplement the team
• Innovations must be grounded in scientific research in life sciences, health, or medical technology
Ineligible Applicants
• Projects without a clear commercialization plan
• Teams lacking a researcher or scientific founder
• Initiatives already fully funded by private investors or established ventures
Funding Details
• Total budget for Spring 2026: €100,000
• Maximum of six proposals funded per edition
• Focused support ensures personalized guidance and mentoring for each team
Programme Structure
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Duration: 8–10 weeks
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Guidance: Mentorship on company setup and business planning
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Outputs: Market-ready business plan, clear roadmap for product or therapy launch
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Long-term Impact: Strengthened foundation for attracting future investment or partnerships
Support Provided
• Mentorship from industry experts and entrepreneurs
• Advice on company incorporation and governance
• Assistance in defining commercialization strategy
• Guidance on regulatory pathways and market entry
Application Process
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Form a team of 3–4 members, including the lead researcher
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Prepare a proposal detailing the scientific innovation and commercialization plan
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Submit your application by the deadline (check official Venture Challenge portal)
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Selected teams receive funding and program entry for the Spring 2026 edition
Key Tips for Applicants
• Emphasize the scientific basis and novelty of your innovation
• Highlight market potential and societal impact
• Demonstrate clear team roles and complementary expertise
• Show commitment to commercializing the research beyond the program
Conclusion
The Venture Challenge Spring Edition 2026 provides life sciences and health researchers with the opportunity to transform early-stage discoveries into market-ready ventures. By combining funding, mentorship, and structured business development support, the programme accelerates innovation, shortens time-to-market, and helps build the next generation of scientific entrepreneurs.
For more information, visit NWO.