Boldbrain Startup Challenge
Deadline
14.06.2024
Register
Boldbrain is a 90-day accelerator program for 20 selected startups. The initiative is part of the network of Swiss accelerators but stands out for two important features: it is designed for startups in the "early stage" phase (when the idea is in its initial phase) and it is open to all sectors of activity. The only conditions required are the innovative character and scalability of the project.
For the current edition, there is one major innovation: the organizers have declared their desire to direct the accelerator towards sustainability principles in a more incisive and tangible way. This will is manifested in a series of concrete initiatives, starting with the introduction of a sixth workshop dedicated exclusively to sustainability, organized in collaboration with Impact Hub Ticino.
Key numbers
- CHF 120,000 in cash prizes
- CHF 80,000 in in-kind prizes
- Training: 6 workshops
- 600 hours of coaching
- 90 days of acceleration
- 20 selected startups
- 20 coaches
- 6 thematic workshops
The accelerator is a program of Fondazione Agire, organized in close collaboration with the USI Startup Centre and a network of competent partners who contribute to the success of the program. The program will take place between August and November 2024 and conclude with the final award ceremony, scheduled for December the 4th, at the Palazzo dei Congressi in Lugano.
Criteria
At least two individuals have to be involved in the project. The team must be
- available and commit to participate in the workshops and other activities planned
- willing to commit most of their time to the development of the entrepreneurial project;
- willing to present publicly their business idea or project, or at least the basic concepts that allow for its full understanding, possibly omitting only those details that could compromise certain key competitive advantages;
- willing to set up in Ticino a Public Limited Company (PLC, SA) or a Limited Liability Company (LLC, Sagl); if the company has already been established, it should be in its early stage and not more than three (3) years old at the time of the application for Boldbrain (by reference the submission date of the application through the online form and the date of registration in the Trade Register);
Consideration will be given only to entrepreneurial ideas and/or promising, innovative projects that can demonstrate a positive impact for Ticino (create jobs and attract investment).
Projects may not participate in Boldbrain that:
- have been coached during a past Boldbrain challenge; or
- have concluded, prior to the opening date of the Boldbrain applications, one of the following national programs:
- Kickstart Accelerator; Venture Kick; MassChallenge; or
- at the opening date of the Boldbrain applications have been accepted to the Core Coaching of Innosuisse Startup Coaching (ex CTI Start-up / CTI Label) ; or
- at the opening date of the Boldbrain applications have concluded any other acceleration program outside Switzerland.