Deep tech programme Kickstart opens application process

Applications have opened for the fourth Kickstart programme, which fosters innovation through partnerships between startups and established companies and organisations.

The Swiss acceleration programme is now accepting applications from national and international tech companies.

Kickstart’s focus is on deep technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain and Big Data across different verticals: EdTech & Learning, FinTech & Digital Assets, Food & Retail Tech and Smart City & Technology as well as, for the first time, Cybersecurity and HealthTech.

In the programme, the selected startups will meet and work together with leading corporations and organisations with the purpose of launching innovation partnerships and pilot projects.

The Kickstart program aims to initiate successful partnerships and pilot projects between later-stage startups and corporations and organisations such as AXA, Coop, Migros, Swisscom, Mobiliar, Credit Suisse, ETH Zürich, Gebert Rüf Foundation, Mercator Foundation Switzerland, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy SFOE, the cities of Zurich as well as St.Gallen and others. 

Kickstart co-lead Katka Letzing said: "Deep technologies have a great potential, which can only be fully exploited through the cooperation between different partners. These new technologies can contribute to solving some of the biggest challenges of our time. Established players are increasingly looking to work with tech startups. Successful innovation doesn't happen in isolation – it needs cooperation. That's what Kickstart stands for."

Tech startups from Switzerland and all around the world may apply for Kickstart 2019 until May 17.

Up to 50 startups will be accepted in the programme. In addition, intrapreneurship teams (innovation teams from companies, cities or universities) can register for the programme.

Participants will get direct access to decision-makers of Kickstart’s partner corporations and organisations, support in cooperation with these partners and access to a broad network of experts.