VALIDATE YOUR IDEA IN 8 WEEKS
The START Program is the perfect way for you to discover whether you should spend more time, money, and energy on it. The START Program is a free-of-charge validation program based on a pressure cooker. This means that we will treat the minimum for successful validation. We'll put you on the fast track towards successful validation. We'll match you with a business coach, and you become part of our worldwide community. In 8 weeks we will guide you through the validation process.
THE STARTING POINT FOR YOUR BUSINESS IDEA
The START program is an intensive 8-week validation program for young entrepreneurs who want to test their startup idea and learn how to run a business. Each year, we kick off with four new groups of up to 25 teams. You’ll get matched with a coach whose expertise perfectly fits your case. The sessions take place at Incubase, our inspiring startup incubator, and include four mandatory in-person evenings packed with masterclasses from experienced entrepreneurs, 1-on-1 coaching, and networking opportunities. With tools like Slack, Notion, and Miro—and backed by 40 years of expertise—we help you discover whether entrepreneurship is right for you and if your idea is unique, feasible, and truly distinctive. Fail fast, learn faster, and take the next step towards your success!
How does it work?
The START program is for early-stage entrepreneurs with an innovative and scalable business idea that fits within the startup ecosystem. Innovation can be a new business model or technology in an existing market. The program requires 8 weeks of dedication and the intention to develop your idea into a startup. Novel-T aims for successful teams to establish their company in the Twente region.
At the end of the program, you will have proof of market interest, a team of at least two people, and a scalable, innovative case. With tools like Notion, Slack, and Miro, you will work in a professional, entrepreneurial environment where commitment and communication are crucial.
Who is the START program for?
- Anyone with an innovative and scalable business idea.
- Students at the University of Twente, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, or Windesheim.
- Researchers who have completed the ERP
Launch your startup in our ADVANCED Program
Can you do it better, faster, or more efficiently than the competition? What makes your idea unique and distinctive? Are you truly solving a problem? These are questions you need to find the answers to. Have you gathered enough proof from the market? Are you still excited about the idea? And have you made the necessary progress? Then you can apply for the ADVANCED Program to take the next steps with your startup.
How much does it cost?
The START program is funded by Novel-T and is therefore completely free for you.
Why is it free?
Novel-T has a mission from its founders—University of Twente, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Municipality of Enschede, Twente Board, and the Province of Overijssel—to strengthen the innovative power of entrepreneurs in Twente.
From this perspective, we offer our startup programs free of charge. This means that:
- All startup programs for startups are paid for by us; you don’t need to reach for your wallet.
- You “pay” us through your commitment; in return for participating in the programs, we expect a serious drive to learn.
- Novel-T or its founders do not, in any way, claim ownership of your startup or your ideas. Our goal is to help you and your startup succeed. Nothing more, nothing less. Different rules apply to spin-offs that result from scientific research at the university. For that, please contact the KTO.
What's in it for you?
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1-on-1 coaching
You will be match with a business coach who will help you take the right steps towards validation during the program.
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Become part of the community
By participating in the START Program you automatically become part of our community. A broad network of fellow participants, startup entrepreneurs, experts and more relevant connections who can help you with your next step.
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Tools and instruments
With your participation in the START program you gain access to numerous tools and expertise that will help you in your next step. Think of coaching, but also business development, capital support, training to be prepared for investors and support in the field of marketing.
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Masterclasses in multiple subjects
During the START program you will receive master classes and training on various topics. Such as marketing, pitch training, intellectual property, fundraising and more.
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More about the START program
Projectmanager Lars Prinsen, coach Peter Langela and several participants tell you more about the START program.Experts in het START programma
Onze experts bieden je in het START programma alle kennis en begeleiding die jij nodig hebt om je startup idee te valideren.
Peter Langela
Business Developer
Lars Prinsen
Program manager
Yaïr Sharon
Business Developer
Jordyn Abrahams
Junior Business Coach
I'm ready to join the START program!
THESE ENTREPRENEURS PRECEDED YOU
These entrepreneurs took the leap and became successful. Let the stories of their entrepreneurial journey inspire you to start your own.
Startup Program
Do you want to turn your idea into a successful startup? At Novel-T, we understand your drive and are ready to support you every step of the way. From idea to startup is not an easy journey, but with our practical and inspiring guidance, you will be on the right path to success.
From idea to startup
But you know what makes it even better? We also help you find the funding you need to grow your startup. With our extensive network of investors and funding experts, we can explore and address the right funding opportunities together.
Funding startup
And that's not all! Our startup accelerator offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your growth potential. You get access to valuable resources, mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and the opportunity to network within our thriving entrepreneurial community.
Sign up and join our startup accelerator
So what are you waiting for? Take this opportunity and take your idea to the next level. Contact us and find out how we can help you realize your startup dreams. Together we will take your entrepreneurial adventure to new heights!
