SISSA researchers interested in entrepreneurship, technology transfer, and the creation of research-based spinouts may wish to consider the following opportunity offered within the framework of Slush 2026, Europe's leading startup event.
Researchers, academic entrepreneurs, and university spinout teams are invited to take part in two initiatives dedicated to deep-tech innovation and research commercialization at Slush 2026, one of Europe's leading startup and investor events, taking place in Helsinki on 18-19 November.
Present Your Research-Based Venture at Science to Scale
On 18 November 2026, MITO Technology, in collaboration with Atlantic Labs, Dealroom, and Slush, will launch the new edition of the European Spinout & University Innovation Report, a landmark study on the European academic innovation ecosystem.
The report launch will take place during Science to Scale, Slush's flagship session dedicated to university spinouts and science-based entrepreneurship. As part of the programme, 8-10 research projects will be selected to pitch on stage before a high-profile audience of leading European deep-tech investors and innovation stakeholders.
Universities and Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) may nominate projects directly, without requiring researchers to submit individual applications.
Eligibility
Applicants should have reached at least Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4. The selection is open to projects from all scientific and technological domains, although particular interest has been expressed in areas such as:
- Industrial decarbonisation
- Advanced materials
- Energy technologies
- Hardware innovations
- Other deep-tech sectors
Important Information
- Application deadline: 4 October 2026
- Programme information: https://slush.org/audience/startups/spinouts
- Application form: https://slush.typeform.com/to/z7QZFgEq
European Spinout Forum
On 17 November 2026, the day before Science to Scale, Slush will host the European Spinout Forum, an invitation-only event designed to foster direct dialogue among universities, technology transfer professionals, investors, and innovation ecosystem leaders.
The forum will focus on two critical issues that often influence the success of university spinouts:
- Intellectual Property (IP) transfer terms
- Equity allocation and founder dilution
Participation is limited to a selected group of institutions and stakeholders. Organizations that believe they can contribute valuable perspectives to the discussion are invited to request participation.
A Valuable Opportunity for Research Commercialisation
These initiatives offer a unique opportunity for researchers considering the creation of a spinout company, as well as for existing science-based startups seeking visibility among investors and industry leaders. They also provide universities and TTOs with a platform to showcase promising technologies and engage with key actors in the European innovation ecosystem.
For further details and application information, interested researchers and research groups are encouraged to consult the links provided above.
