Imagine IF! is a global competition and accelerator program for deep technology. The program offers selected early stage science-based ventures mentoring programs, free office space and the chance to win a cash prize of CHF 25’000. The winner will also be invited to compete against the Top 20 startups from around the world. Registration closes on 28th July 2017.
The Imagine IF! accelerator program is organised by Innovation Forum with the objective to break down the obstacles in translating scientific ideas to real-world applications, and to accelerate the speed of technology adoption for the benefit of the wider society.
This year the program will be conducted for the fourth time. Sought for are science that can help to improve healthcare, environmental conservation and sustainability. Examples include: new medicines, medical devices, new materials or engineering solutions helping to improve life or preserve the natural environment in a balanced state.
The program consists of two parts; local and global and will be conducted in five phases: The first phase is the local competition which will take place in Lausanne. Interested startups from Switzerland are invited to submit their applications until 28th July 2017 using Imagine IF!’s online submission portal.
In the second phase, top 10 local teams will be announced and will commence the local acceleration programme on 7th August. Upon completion, the Swiss finals will be held in the third phase on 3rd October 2017 where the winner will be announced, awarded a cash prize of CHF 25’000. The winner will also be invited to compete at a global level with others local winners from participating countries. 3 runners up per region will secure themselves a place in the Global Top 20. All 20 startups will be invited to participate in the global acceleration programme starting on 23rd October 2017.
At both the local and global level, startups will benefit from a wide range of benefits including mentoring by local and international leaders from the leading pharmaceutical and professional services companies, free lab space, and access to an international network.
The last phase in the program is the Final Pitch, which takes place on 5th December 2017. The Top 20 startups will pitch to an international audience at the Global Final as part of the Innovation Forum Leaders Conference in Oxford. The winner will receive a non-dilutive cash prize. The Top 20 winners will in addition receive a free ticket to participate in Innovation Forum 2017. Furthermore, the winner and the runner up from each of the local level competitions will enter into the TOP 50 global pool. The remaining spots in the TOP 50 group will be filled in by applicants chosen from all entrants.
Participation in the IMAGINE IF! Accelerator is free, and equity stake from the participating companies. Furthermore, the Imagine IF! team will introduce selected teams to venture capital firms, multinational companies and other key stakeholders to enable the rapid acceleration of their business.
About Innovation Forum
The Innovation Forum is a global not-for-profit network of over 10,000 researchers, industry leaders and entrepreneurs. It aims to accelerate innovative technology development by connecting academics, industry and policy makers across Biotech, d-Health, Clean-tech and Med-tech.
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