Objectives
The Program aims to increase the maturity level of ideas and technological platforms through dedicated funding, training paths, and tailored coaching aligned with the valorization pathway identified for each idea and technology.
Tools
Each selected project will be supported through a hands-on training program including workshops and the support of an expert Technology Transfer coach, in collaboration with HIT.
Projects may receive funding ranging from €30,000 to €80,000, depending on the proposal submitted. These funds may be used for:
- Costs related to engaging external suppliers or consultants
- Costs for the purchase of equipment and materials
- Personnel costs
- Any other eligible expenses directly connected to the implementation of the funded Project
The network of companies and partners of the Foundation, the University, and the Program partners will be leveraged to foster collaborations and testing of the solutions developed by the teams, as well as to provide access to private funding channels.
Target participants
The program is open to:
- PhD students working within the Foundation’s research centers
- Postdoctoral researchers
- Researchers, technologists, and laboratory staff of the Foundation
Participants may apply individually or as a team.
Joint teams including employees or research contractors from the University of Trento are also eligible and will receive a specific bonus during the selection phase.
Application and deadline
Applicants must submit their application through an online form, attaching a Valorization Project outlining:
- Problem/need – solution-target customer
- Market and valorization outlook
- Relevant technologies and IP assets
- Activity plan and project cost estimate
Submitted Projects must have a duration of 8 months.
Applications must be submitted by May 5th, 2026 at 11:00 PM.
Timeline
The Program includes the following key milestones:
- March 5, 2026 – Call opens
- May 5, 2026 – Application deadline
- June 5, 2026 – Communication of admitted teams
- July 16, 2026 – Pitch Day for admitted teams and selection of funded teams
Evaluation Process
Teams will be evaluated in two steps:
- An initial evaluation based on submitted applications, selecting teams admitted to the training and coaching program.
- At the end of the first training and coaching phase, teams will be evaluated during a Pitch Day based on the quality of their presentation and the work carried out during the first phase.
The final ranking of fundable teams will be determined by the sum of the scores from both evaluations. Full details on the evaluation criteria are available in the official call.
Program Partners and Thematic Funding
The following local institutions and companies participate as supporting partners:
- Camera di Commercio di Trento
- Federazione Trentina della Cooperazione
- Dolomiti Energia
- Fondazione Caritro
Partners will provide additional funding reserved for teams working on the proposed thematic areas (details available at the dedicated link).
They may also support teams during the experimentation and testing phases of their technologies throughout the PoC program.
Help Desk
Not sure whether the technology you are working on is the right fit? Need clarification about the call or the program? Write to [email protected]for more information or to schedule a one-on-one discussion.
Full application documents
Applications must be submitted via Microsoft Form no later than 11:00 P.M. on May 5th 2026.