Between 2022 and 2027, the initiative aims to identify and support 250 startups with projects that are exceptionally innovative, feasible, and scalable. Over 1,673 startups, nearly half of all estimated startups in the Czech Republic, have already expressed interest in what is CzechInvest’s most ambitious program to boost a competitive startup ecosystem to date.
Beyond incubation, the initiative also works to promote key technology sectors on a national scale and represents startup interests in discussions with government bodies and other strategic partners, actively shaping a more favorable business environment. It also organizes major industry events and participates in leading global conferences and trade fairs. For all these reasons and much more, if you’re not watching Technology Incubation yet, you’re already one step behind.
1. The Largest Startup Support Project in Czechia
Technology Incubation is the most extensive initiative by the CzechInvest agency, focused on developing a dynamic and competitive startup ecosystem across the country. It serves as a cornerstone of national support for early-stage technological ventures.
2. Targeted Support in Key Technological Sectors
The program focuses on the development of young, progressive companies in key technological fields: artificial intelligence, mobility, creative industries, space technologies, ecology and circular economy, tech4life, defence, fintech and advanced materials.
3. Comprehensive Support Beyond Traditional Grants
Unlike traditional grant programs, Technology Incubation offers startups a unique combination of financial and non-financial support. This includes educational seminars and workshops, pitch opportunities with investors, networking events, collaboration with an incubation manager, as well as tailored consulting and mentoring from leading Czech business and technology experts. The incubation lasts from one to two years, during which startups receive support without giving up equity in their companies.
4. Unique Dual Focus: Technology and Business Development
Inspired by successful international models, the program’s uniqueness lies primarily in its dual focus on both technological and business development. Thanks to individually tailored expert guidance and technical support, startups accelerate their development and market entry, better adapt to dynamic market challenges, and optimize their growth more efficiently.
5. Open Access for Early-Stage Startups Across the Czech Republic
The program is open to innovators from all over the Czech Republic whose startups are in early development stages and registered in the Czech Republic. At the time of application, having employees or revenue is not required.
6. Access to a Robust Innovation Network and Global Partnerships
The incubation also connects startups to key institutions across the public, private, and academic sectors. CzechInvest collaborates with established regional innovation centers, incubators, accelerators, and science and technology parks throughout the country. Sector-specific partnerships are formed at the level of individual hubs. Examples include links to business space activities of the European Space Agency (ESA), CERN Venture Connect for deep tech, or security innovation acceleration in cooperation with NATO.
7. Continued Support and Visibility for Alumni Startups
For alumni startups, the program offers support in finding further financing opportunities and connections to potential investors. CzechInvest also provides acceleration programs for foreign market expansion and opportunities to participate in international events.To further support the startup ecosystem, Technology Incubation co-organizes key sector competitions and startup events such as the Czech Startup Week, the largest space festival Czech Space Week, the Creative Business Cup for creative industries, the URBIS international conference on smart cities, Tech Happy Hours, and the AI startup pitch contest held during the nationwide AI Days. Networking events are also regularly organized to promote cross-sector collaboration among startups.
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source: Startup Kitchen
