Questions & Answers | Basics

Get answers on the Innovation Hub offers for students, doctoral candidates, postdocs and reasearchers of the University of Zurich.

How do I know whether it is worth pursuing my startup idea?

Start by defining your ideal customer and identifying the problem they are facing. Determine the value your idea can offer. Engage with potential customers to validate your idea and consider seeking a commitment to purchase your product or service once it will be available. You can receive support to evaluate the market potential of your idea with the Innovation Grants.

How do I know if I would enjoy being an entrepreneur?

Learn more about what it means to be an entrepreneur in the Entrepreneurship Bootcamps and meet with other early-career researchers pursuing their career at the Innovator mornings.

Does the Innovation Hub support social innovation and impact startups?

Yes, the Innovation Hub supports ideas from any research disciplines and any application area. Since 2024 the UZH Entrepreneur Fellowships for a Sustainable Society support the development of science-based impact-startups.

Where is the Innovation Hub located and how can I get in contact?

The Innovation Hub is a conglomerate of multiple clusters and programs located across various campuses of UZH in Zurich, Switzerland. For any inquiries, please email us. 

How do I find out if my research can become a startup?

If you see your research having potential to create direct societal value, it might be suitable for a startup. Apply for an Innovation Grant! This allows you to test your idea. If you have questions, a free initial call can help. Also think about an industry cooperation, as impact can also be realized through programs like Innosuisse. For patentable ideas, consult with Unitectra for guidance. 

Do you only support research-based innovations and startups?

No, we support any innovative entrepreneur based at the University of Zurich with an ethical business model that we believe has a chance of success. The Innovation Hub offers specific programs for researchers such as the Innovation Grants and Entrepreneur Fellowships to translate science into a product or service. But many of the others offers are open.

My research breakthrough might be patentable, what can I do?

Wheter you believe your research is patentable, it is crucial not to publish any details before seeking advice. Please contact Unitectra, the patent attorneys at UZH, to discuss next steps. 

What are the necessary steps to develop my startup idea?

1. Understand the Problem: Deeply research your target industry or markets problem with their pain you can solve.
2. Engage with Stakeholders: Conduct structured interviews with potential customers and industry experts to understand what they need.
3. Validate the Market: Ensure that there is demand for your solution by determining the willingness to pay before creating a product.
4. Develop a Concept: Create a solution that addresses the identified problem effectively, and in a better way than it is done today.
5. Build a Team: Assemble a strong team of (co-)founders and collaborators. 
6. Create a Proof-of-Concept, Prototype or MVP: Develop your solution to a point to be able to demonstrate its core value creation. 
7. Establish a Business Model: Develop a clear and scalable revenue strategy. 

Be aware that this is not a linear process, but in many cases, it is better to start with an understanding of the problem than with a business model.

Can you help me find collaborators or build a team?

We offer a new feature in the UZH Now App called «Get-a-Match». Post your idea and specify the kind of team members you are looking for and receive applications. Sign up to get started.

Do you offer legal advice or assistance with legal matters?

The Legal Services and Data Protection department of UZH provide legal advice for research-based projects and startups.

Do you support student entrepreneurs or only researchers?

We support entrepreneurship at all levels, including students, doctoral candidates, postdocs and researchers. This includes workshops, bootcamps, finances and advice. Please note that certain offers are exclusively available for research-based projects. 

How can I get entrepreneurship coaching?

An initial coaching can be booked here. Please prepare basic information about your idea beforehand. Our coaches guide you to valuable resources and provide insights. 

What regulatory steps do I need to take if I work at UZH and found a startup at the same time?

If you are employed at UZH while developing a startup, inform the HR department of your faculty. Professors need to consult the Department of Professorships. Any potential conflict of interest must be addressed. Before you set up your company, you need an agreement on secondary employment. 

Do you provide access to facilities, labs, or equipment?

There are numerous facilities and technology platforms available for startups and (innovation)projects. Access requires approval. Check our Infrastructural Resources page for more information.

How can I get funding for my translational UZH project?

To obtain funding, you need a research-based idea with the intend to create value through an entrepreneurial journey. You can apply for an Innovation Grant and an Entrepreneur Fellowship. At least one team member must be an employed researcher at UZH, and the startup should not be incorporated yet. More details on the funding pages.

Can you help me get in front of investors?

While the Innovation Hub primarily supports early-stage startups and projects, we understand the challenges of securing investment. We offer guidance and have compiled a list of grants and investors as a good starting point. To get investment advice, you need to be an officially recognized UZH Startup (apply here).

Do you offer mentorship or access to experienced entrepreneurs?

We collaborate with entrepreneurs from UZH and externally. Join one of our events, apply for one of the coached programs or reach out to us to get connected.

How long does the support process typically take?

We try to support you throughout your entire entrepreneurial journey. If you encounter challenges or need assistance, feel free to contact us via email at info@innovation.uzh.ch.

Do you take equity for your support?

No, we do not take any equity for our support (for UZH members). If you become a successful entrepreneur, we encourage you giving back in any way to support future entrepreneurs.

What are success stories or examples of startups you have supported?

The UZH has many startups, including those using patents (spinoffs) or a founder's link to UZH.  Current numbers and a list of startups.

Can the Innovation Hub publish news about our startup or product?

Yes, we promote successes of UZH Startups on our communication channels, such as updates on funding rounds and new partnerships.

What are the requirements for startups to get the UZH Startup Label?

Startups bearing the official UZH Startup Label have a scalable and ethical business model, secured funding, a competent team, and a background at UZH. Apply for the label here. 

Can I work with the UZH Innovation Hub if I am an alumnus?

Yes, we collaborate with alumni as experts in workshops, as business coaches and guest speakers or by having you share your entrepreneurial journey with the new generation of innovators. Please reach out to info@innovation.uzh.ch.

How can we collaborate if we are part of the Startup Ecosystem?

We will read every proposal which clearly states an open problem with a more suitable solution than we have right now. You can reach us at info@innovation.uzh.ch.