Catalyst

Catalyst is a programme created by UBImedical, the UBI incubator, during which start-ups in the pre-seed phase learn, using specific tools (the catalysts), how to validate an entrepreneurial idea (with a special focus on deep tech), how to discover clients and competitors, test their ideas, be introduced to local and international markets, and enter the start-up ecosystem. The programme aims to equip its stakeholders (students, teachers, researchers and other staff) with entrepreneurial and innovative skills. Through this programme, we use tools to develop entrepreneurial intent and the future creation of start-ups, but also to boost innovation by transforming research into new products, services or processes. In addition to this training, the programme includes a methodology for stimulating the entrepreneurial mindset developed with the 5 faculties of UBI, integrating various curricular units.

Catalyst aims to stimulate entrepreneurial intent and support high-tech start-ups in the pre-seed or seed phase (and in the growth phase), equipping them with tools to consolidate the market, ensuring a successful roadmap from idea to market. It also aims to build capacity through specific mentoring and training, enabling start-ups to develop their businesses and attract investment. In order to stimulate the entrepreneurial mindset and the practical/critical sense of bringing the business idea to life, Catalyst has a product developed with a group of subjects from the various courses at UBI's 5 faculties, which consists of, during the course of the curricular unit, administering classes whose content ranges from the idea, Design Thinking, Industrial Property, Triple Layer Business Model, Company Creation and Pitch Communication. On the other hand, we organise idea competitions, hackathons and pitch competitions, which are the starting point for turning their solutions into prototypes or MVPs, with the aim of creating a startup. Catalyst's aim is to implement specific acceleration actions that accompany entrepreneurs (still in the pre-seed phase), providing them with the capacity to develop their solution and helping them to realise the best way to position themselves in the market.