As part of the EIC Tech to Market (EIC T2M) Entrepreneurship Programme, the Business Idea Validation Bootcamp, focused on business model development through Design Thinking, will be held online from 15th October to 8th November 2024. It features workshops, team coaching, one-on-one mentoring, and stakeholder interviews to help participants design, test, and pitch their business models. Applications are open until October 10th—Apply now and don’t miss this chance to accelerate your startup and turn your ideas into market solutions!
Having recently completed the third round of the Business Idea Validation Bootcamp, this article highlights feedback from three beneficiaries from Women TechEU projects and one leading expert on how the Bootcamp has empowered startups to achieve market success.
How the Bootcamp supported the previous beneficiaries?
expressTEC: Precision Cancer Diagnostics
expressTEC is revolutionizing cancer diagnostics with RNA-based tests to improve targeted therapies. Co-founders Ana Teresa Maia and Joana Xavier are on a mission to transform scientific breakthroughs into life-saving clinical tools.
“We founded expressTEC after a decade in cancer research.” shares Ana Teresa. “We wanted our findings to save lives.”
For expressTEC, the Bootcamp offered essential support to refine their business model and prepare for investment. “The mentors' feedback helped us improve our pitch and connected us with invaluable advisors.” says Joana Xavier.
Mentor's Perspective
"Ana Teresa and Joana's passion for innovation is inspiring. The Bootcamp sharpened their focus, and it was an honor to be part of their journey." says mentor Orily Pratt. Watch the full video, here.
Vignita: Transforming Learning
Vignita is an innovative learning platform connecting employers, trainers, and employees. Founder Mariann Ertresvaag credits the Bootcamp with helping her team adjust their business model for growth.
"Learning to use design thinking helped us refine our ideas." says Mariann. "We also gained a powerful network of experts and friends across Europe." Watch the full video here.
NS2: Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation
Nitrogen Sensing Solutions (NS2), led by Marise Almeida and Gabriela Almeida, develops smart biosensing systems for monitoring water quality in aquaculture. Their product, NOxAqua, helps manage nitrogen levels to protect aquatic ecosystems.
"The expert feedback helped us craft a market strategy and prepare for the EIC Accelerator." says Gabriela Almeida. "We also found mentors who filled key gaps in our expertise." Watch the full video here.
Peer Support
"Connecting with other female entrepreneurs from WomenTechEU was incredibly inspiring." adds Marise. "The Bootcamp and the visibility from awards like BlueInvest EU have opened doors to new opportunities and funding."
Expert Feedback
As an experienced coach in the EIC Tech2Market Programme, Orily Pratt has mentored multiple startups through the EIC Business Idea Validation Bootcamp and shares her insights:
"The Bootcamp is a reality check for any startup looking to bring their innovations to the market. It's a unique opportunity to get professional, outside feedback and refine your plans. The entrepreneurial energy is incredible, and each participant brings new challenges that require creative business solutions. It's a privilege to help them on this exciting journey." Watch the full video here.
Next Bootcamp
Are you inspired by these stories? Apply now for the next Bootcamp by October 10th to accelerate your journey with expert mentorship and strategic guidance.
Read more
If you’re interested in knowing more about the EIC Tech to Market Entrepreneurship Programme and our open calls, please visit our page in the EIC Community.
Need help?
For additional information, please refer to our helpdesk by choosing” EIC Tech to Market (T2M) Entrepreneurship Programme” as the subject.
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided in the interest of knowledge sharing and should not be interpreted as the official view of the European Commission, or any other organisation.