ETH Launches New Funding Programme for Startups

(CONNECT) The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH) has launched the new UPortunity support program for startups in partnership with UBS. According to a press release, the university aims to use this initiative to fill a gap in its support programmes related to entrepreneurship. In addition to researchers who can apply for funding from ETH funds, this initiative is also intended to support recent graduates.

A new cohort begins twice a year. Teams with up to five members are eligible to participate. There is a project budget of 5,000 francs for each project, and three members of a selected team will also receive financial support for three months. Through various activities, the teams are intentionally mixed while working on the projects to encourage a lively exchange of ideas and foster connections.

“There is an incredible wealth of talent and ideas at ETH. With this new programme, we can now also support people who have developed a good idea during their studies and would like to bring it to life after graduation,” Cornelia Walther, director of the UPortunity programme, is quoted as saying in the press release.

UPortunity is funded as part of the partnership between ETH Zurich and UBS. The bank also contributes its expertise through consultations and workshops. Lukas Döbelin, Head of Academic Partnerships at UBS, sees the programme as “an environment that combines talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and concrete support.” According to the press release, Cara Ammann has already benefited from the programme. She is now continuing to drive the development of a prosthetic socket through her startup, Softletics. ce/ww