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► Call for applications 2024 has been completed
The UZH Innovation Grants program is an early stage support for research-based innovations at the University of Zurich.
| For | Doctoral candidates, Postdocs and established researchers |
| Content | Targeted support in evaluating the market potential of ideas. The insights gained throughout the support period will empower researchers to determine the next steps for their projects with a focus on social and economic impact. |
| Output | A value proposition with market potential. This provides the basis for attracting partners, investors or innovation funding for the implementation of the research-based idea. |
| Scope | Projects selected for an Innovation Grant will be supported in their work to validate the market potential through guidance provided in three workshops, 1:1 coaching sessions and CHF 10’000 in funding. |
| When | Application possible twice a year. Deadlines: 1 March 2025 (upcoming 15 September 2025) |
| How |
Information on submitting the application Submit your application on the grants platform Here you can find a blank application form (for reference only). (PDF, 336 KB) |
| More | Advice from our coaches and information event |
The funding can be used to pay salaries (e.g. co-worker for project), materials (e.g. for a prototype, platforms), travel (e.g. to meet with important stakeholders) or for outsourcing (e.g. set up a website).
The funds cannot be used to purchase personal computers or related equipment.
Selected applicant will be guided in the validation of the market potential during three dedicated workshops. The participation is compulsory and hence it is important that the applicant is available for the following in person workshops taking place 9-12 am on Nov 11th and 25th 2024, Jan 20th 2025.
Successful applicants will be supported by a dedicated entrepreneurship coach. Once you have received a positive decision on your project you can select the coach to work with. Projects in the life science domain will be supported by the experts in the Translational Medicine Accelerator.
Possible next steps after the end of the support period are
The main applicant must be a researcher with an employment at the University of Zurich. This includes doctoral candidates, Postdocs and established researchers. This criteria has administrative reasons.
We encourage researchers applying for an Innovation Grant to participate with a team or at least accompanied by another person. However, that person does not have to be a potential co-founder – a colleague or Master student interested in getting a hands-on experience of market validation would be a good fit. You can use one part of the funding to hire this person.
Master students with a research-based idea can connect with a researcher at UZH in order to apply for the Innovation Grant as a team.
