Launchpad Programme
Programme Overview
The PhotonHub Launchpad program is designed to support the acceleration of both the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Investment Readiness Level (IRL) of emerging ventures. They are guided from the conceptual stage through to the development of a full demonstrator and industrially compatible prototype, in parallel with the formulation of a clear business plan aimed at maximising their potential for raising initial venture capital.
Launchpad has been developed by PhotonHub, the EU-funded full-service one-stop-shop digital innovation hub for photonics. With over 30 renowned photonics technology support providers, the PhotonHub partner network spans a wide range of cutting-edge technology platforms, facilitating open access and guided orientation to the broadest possible range of photonics expertise, equipment and technologies available from the best facilities throughout Europe. It also covers the entire value chain from early-stage concept (TRL2) and prototyping (TRL3-4) to upscaling (TRL5-7). IRL supports are aligned to TRL support activities and run parallel with but independently of the deep innovation projects. Launchpad’s unique support offering makes innovating through photonics faster, easier, and more accessible than ever.
Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Supports
TRL supports for a deep innovation project are delivered by one or more PhotonHub partners who provide guidance on commercial and technical development through photonics-led innovation.
- EU subsidies of up to 85% of the cost of each individual selected deep innovation project
- Expert assessment on the technical viability of the planned innovation
- Involvement of one or more partners with the relevant expertise and experience to support the project’s needs through every step of your it.
- Access to PhotonHub’s Demo & Experience Centers for hands-on training in project’s targeted photonics technology domain
- Guidance on photonics manufacturing and the EU supply chain
Investment Readiness Level (IRL) Supports
IRL supports are delivered by renowned funding specialists Tech Tour in partnership with the Business Coaching Team at VUB B-PHOT Brussels Photonics and intellectual property (IP) specialists Sonnenberg Harrison.
- Fully subsidised support to help teams reach their funding goals
- Specialised workshops for investment-readiness coaching
- Mentoring sessions with industry experts to refine business models and strategies
- Investor pitch training
- Expert advice and support with the protection of teams’ innovations while navigating the pathway to commercialization
- Guidance on licensing and on protecting company and brand names
For more information, please contact
Viktoria Pavlova viktoria@techtour.com
PhotonHub Europe Scaling Club is an initiative developed by Tech Tour, Europe’s largest tech investment community and PhotonHub Europe – a unique European full-service one-stop-shop digital innovation hub for photonics, as part of the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation in Public Private Partnership with Photonics21.
