unlock_ incubation program in Leiden
Launching a startup is challenging. And especially in a specific sector like life sciences & health. The unlock_ Incubation Program is an entrepreneurship program to support life science and biotechnology start-ups in this early phase to become “economically active.” In other words: raise money, spend money strategically and build healthy teams. We do this by having you answer the question, “How can we help you?
During the 12-month incubation program, we support you in identifying the blind spots in your business model and developing a validation strategy. The program is designed specifically for Life Science and Biotech entrepreneurs.
In this program you unlock_
- The largest Life Science & Health (LSH) network in The Netherlands;
- A great group of colleagues working toward similar goals;
- Access to in-depth expertise;
- A nice place to work at PLNT or at BioPartner; Guidance where you need it;
- Drinks and knowledge-based events;
- The next step for your business.
Program timeline
Wondering what the program looks like? Check out the timeline here.
Deadline
Selection days
Onboarding
Tailor made
Graduation
This is unlock_ incubation
Each Life Sciences and Biotech company has its own unique challenges. With this in mind, the unlock_ Incubation Program is divided into two parts:
- The onboarding in which you attend 13 highly interactive sessions over 4 months to challenge you to answer questions and gain insights around your fundamentals, development plan, fundraising, time management and business relationships.
- The tailor-made 8-month program that you can design based on your own specific needs. The insights gathered in the first 4 months during onboarding will help shape your unique deliverables for this period. There are also program sprints during this period.
Furthermore, you will get the support and access to the unlock_ venture capital and Biotech network needed for your startup.
Admission criteria
- You have an innovative and scalable LSH startup
- You have a clear motivation to become economically active
- You have a proof-of-concept of your technology
- You have a clear idea of your product-market fit
About the trainer
Christian Ramakers
Program Manager
As Senior Program Manager at PLNT Leiden, Christian is responsible for the Venture Academy, PLNT’s pre-incubation program and unlock_, the incubation program for life sciences & health startups. He develops and coordinates programs and coaching, working with startups, the university and partners in the broader ecosystem.
Do you have a question about Venture Academy? Then please contact Christian!
FAQ
Don’t see your question listed here? Ask the program trainer!
How do I know if I am ready for unlock_?
1) have an innovative and scalable LSH startup
2) have a clear motivation to become economically active
3) have a proof-of-concept of your technology
4) have a clear idea of your product-market fit.
Do I need to be registered with the Chamber of Commerce?
No, but you must enroll in Leiden within a month of starting the program.
How much time does the program take?
The Onboarding phase of the program consists of 13 full-day sessions during the first 4 months. There are also various events and coaching sessions throughout the year. To get the most out of the program, we also ask you to work on your startup between sessions.
Does unlock_ take shares in my startup?
No, we don’t.
Can I also participate online?
No, all sessions are physical. We believe that physical meetings benefit your participation. This way you can grow more and connect better with the other participants.