Pole Position is an initiative for ambitious deeptech entrepreneurs who want to make an impact. In a safe environment, founders of early-stage deeptech startups discuss their growth challenges during tailor-made sessions led by experienced entrepreneurs. We are looking for deeptech ventures with a focus on Smart Industry to join us. Application deadline: March 27th, 2023.
Pole Position is a joint initiative of a group of Dutch incubators – ‘Incubators United’ – and Techleap.nl. The programme will help a batch of 10 deep tech startups grow and facilitate connections, peer-to-peer learning, and access to the best experts. Pole Position has a thematic approach, bringing together startups with similar focus areas from Health to Energy & Logistics. Upcoming theme will be Smart Industry, starting this Spring 2023
We select deeptech companies that are aiming to get product-market fit and are speeding up towards a series A funding. Their newly developed technology must have proof of concept and thorough market validation.
Your company should:
The selection day will take place on April 19th. The programme will start on May 8th.
In preparation of the programme, you will have to be selected by the committee, after which you will have an intake call with the Pole Position team.
"When our startups reach growth-stage in their entrepreneurial journey the role of the founders changes and their needs become more specific. These startups need access to the right level of specific and nationwide support that local ecosystems just can't offer on their own."
To apply, fill in the application form.
Once you submit your application, your candidature will be thoroughly reviewed by a group of experts. Eventually, we will select fifteen startups that will be invited to pitch and do a Q&A in front of the selection committee. Applications are currently closed.
We do not seek equity. There are no participation costs involved besides your full commitment. We aim to build a thriving (deeptech) startup & scale community and therefore we do ask you to give back. For both Pole Position and this community, we believe that the more effort you put in the more you will get out of it. Let’s make an impact together!
Once you submit your application, your candidature will be thoroughly reviewed by a group of experts. Eventually, we will select fifteen ventures that will be invited to pitch and do a Q&A in front of the selection committee. You will get an answer on their decision 2 days after. Once selected you will be part of the greater Techleap community of serial entrepreneurs, investors and other ecosystem stakeholders.
With the Pole Position Programme we will help you, as a deeptech venture, to bridge the so-called 'valley of death' with its complex obstacles. Pole Position will help you to gain insights and focus to take action on the right exit strategy, whether this is an acquisition or a scalable growth path. This includes expert support, peer2peer and role-model learning, and access to an extensive and (sector-specific) relevant network including great (inter)national exposure.
Summarised:
Yes, however, we focus on specific themes to create added value among peers and address similar challenges. For example, we did focus on Agri & Food, Health, Smart industry... In case you are interested in joining the initiative but do not fit any of these batches, please contact our Batch manager, Lech, at lech@techleap.nl or leave your contact details here.
We are happy to answer them! Please reach out to our Batch manager at lech@techleap.nl.
Rise is an exclusive scaling programme for serious players. Your one-time opportunity to connect with other entrepreneurs and discuss growth challenges and get deep insights from top entrepreneurs such as Michiel Muller (Picnic) or Jitse Groen (Takeaway.com).
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