WP3 Founders ABC: Deeptech start-up support Programme

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This work package focuses on scouting for, training and preparing deep tech start-ups from the WB6 to get access to funding and the pan-European innovation networks of the EIT KICs. 

Goal:

• Improve      their maturity level (prototype stage)
• Preparing      them for pre-seed investment (access to funding)
• Open the doors to Europe through EIT KIC      Accelerator programs

The WP combines local, regional and international subject-matter expertise. The leader is BAU, which works symbiotically with the University of Cyril and Methodius in Skopje, the most influential accelerator of science-based business ideas in North-Macedonia, is very active and connected ecosystem player. Supported by DisruptiveHUB (SK), BothOfUs (SE) and Epicentar (SRB), having more than 20 years of combined experience in innovation management, connections to the early-stage investor community and hands-on knowledge about the EIT KIC accelerator programs operating in the EIT RIS, the partners are well-positioned to deliver the work-plan successfully.

In each Phase we shall deliver Founders ABCD, a two-month long training program for deep tech (entrepreneurial initiatives and start-ups) with the aim of increasing their readiness level to participate in EIT Accelerator programs and embed start-ups from the Western-Balkans into EIT Activities.

WP3 builds on WP2: while in WP2 the HEIs are prepared to educate deeptech talents, in WP3 we put the knowledge into practice and offer a boost for innovative projects in their start-up journey. 

Tasks:   

T 3.1. Co-designing a responsive concept of deep tech incubation and creation of FoundersABC curriculum (May-September 2023)

• Cherry-picking from the best models (Team      Academy, Design Factory, Demola, Start-up Sauna etc). Identifying      successful start-up role models from the region.
• Configuration      - installing the venue and tech conditions, recruiting team and      professional profiles, defining processes, choosing business/financial      model
• Providing adaptive services from recruitment      and ideation to developing alternative exit. scenarios.

T 3.2 Delivering a pilot FoundersABC edition (September-November 2023)

T 3.3. Creation of a deep tech innovation ecosystem builder tool

T 3.4. FoundersABC enhancement to social innovation, green entrepreneurship impact of deep-tech business (January 2024)

T 3.5 Delivering FoundersABC second edition (February-May 2024)

T 3.6 Start-up fast track for pre-seed investments (March-May 2024)

Deliverables: 

D 3.1 FoundersDNA curriculum (September 2023)

D 3.2 Creation of a deep tech innovation ecosystem builder tool (November 2023)

D 3.3 Creation of a responsive concept of deep tech incubation concept (December 2023)

D 3.4 Memorandum of Understanding or similar delivered with a new partner (July 2024)

D 3.5 Report on WP implementation (July 2024)

Milestones:

M 3.1 Concept design and curriculum of FoundersDNA completed (September 2023)

M 3.2 Pilot FoundersABC delivered (November 2023)

M 3.3 Second edition of FoundersABC delivered (May 2024)