The TUW i²c Pre-Incubation Program is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. Designed specifically for early-stage deep tech innovations, our program supports TU Wien scientists and engineers with structured support, domain expertise, and strategic networks in systematically exploring the commercial viability of their breakthrough technologies. Pre-Incubation cohorts can transition seamlessly into incubation with validated concepts and strong teams, the ideal foundation for further development. Together, this two-stage model ensures your deep tech venture receives 12-24 months of expert mentorship, industry connections, and strategic guidance at precisely the moments when they matter most.
Applications open: January 29, 2026
Applications close: February 12, 2026
Program start: March 9, 2026
Program Objectives
Our pre-incubation program focuses on four key areas:
- Building the A-Team: the essential building blocks of a high-performance team covering founder equity allocation and establishing the foundational human capital that will drive your venture’s success.
- Understanding Market Potential: gain crucial insights into your technology’s real-world applications and market fit.
- MVP Definition: validate industry needs and move beyond the initial prototype by outlining the essential features of your Minimum Viable Product.
- Go-to-Market Strategy Development: create a comprehensive plan to bring your innovation to the right audience (business modeling, financial planning and hypothesis testing).
Why Apply?
- Expert Guidance: benefit from domain-specific mentorship to accompany your early -stage journey of transforming your research results into a product.
- Tailored Workshops: covering various topics relevant to the stage of your spin-off, including team development, go-to-market strategy, financial planning, and how to describe the key features of your research and the benefits it brings to the customers.
- Networking Opportunities: connect with industrial experts, investors, and entrepreneurs to validate your concepts and gain initial traction.
- Community Integration: join a vibrant incubator community to share experiences and gain insights on the latest market trends.
- Foundation for Growth: establish a solid base for future incubation or acceleration programs. After graduating from this program, you can continue and apply for the TUW i²ncubator program, benefiting from extra support within the next step of your journey.
- Built for Active Researchers: our program complements your ongoing research activities with flexible formats and cohort-based learning, allowing you to explore commercial viability without compromising your academic work.
Application and Additional Information
The program operates within the framework of the TUW i²ncubator format, aimed to extend the support offered to scientific innovations. We kindly request that you complete the form below to the best of your ability, indicating “N/A” for any questions you cannot answer at this time.
Program Structure
The pre-incubation program spans over four months, offering an immersive experience comprising interactive workshops with hands-on exercises, knowledge exchange sessions with experienced founders, personalized coaching, and mentorship and community events for networking and knowledge sharing.
For questions about the program, please arrange a meeting by contacting alexandra.negoescu@tuwien.ac.at.
Join us on this journey towards transforming breakthrough innovations into real-world solutions. Elevate your entrepreneurial skills and bring your vision to life.