The call seeks to accelerate early-stage technology ventures with up to USD 100,000, technical support and access to an international network of mentors.
Turning a scientific idea into a sustainable business is no easy task, especially in the early stages of a venture. That is why initiatives such as Know Hub Ignition 05 are an opportunity for those seeking to move from the lab to the market, combining financial support, specialized methodologies and an international network of experts.
Backed by the National Research and Development Agency (ANID), the program run by Know Hub Chile is accepting applications until May 21. This fifth edition seeks to accelerate technology solutions with high impact potential, focusing on strategic areas such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, robotics, space technologies and life sciences, among others.
Selected teams will receive up to USD 100,000 in smart money, as well as intensive training, legal advice and connections with investors and key players in the innovation ecosystem. They will also receive support to strengthen their governance, protect their intellectual property and validate their products with real customers.
Early validation, intensive training and expert support
Know Hub Ignition 05 is designed for researchers, startups, companies in formation, professionals and multidisciplinary teams of at least three people, with a combination of technical and business skills. Key requirements are that at least one member be 100% dedicated to the project, that the project have a functional prototype or some preliminary validation, and that it be legally incorporated in Chile.
Over the 12 weeks, participants will move through a validation process inspired by internationally recognized models, such as Corfo’s “Go to Market” and the customer discovery approach of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The goal is to turn a proof of concept into a commercially viable solution with scaling potential.
One of the distinctive features of this edition is access to a network of mentors with proven experience in technology transfer, innovation and commercialization. The network will be coordinated by Alexandra Orozco, an expert with more than two decades of experience leading technology incubation and startup internationalization processes, who has headed programs at the University of California, Riverside. In addition to mentoring, Ignition 05 will include hands-on workshops on business models, company set-up, engaging with investment funds and training in intellectual property management, supporting each team from the scientific stage to market entry. Since its founding in 2018 as a nonprofit corporation, Know Hub Chile has supported more than 300 science teams, building an innovation community with real impact on the country’s economic and social development. Applications for this edition of the program can be submitted until May 21, 2025 at this link.
Read the original article at https://www.emol.com/noticias/Economia/2025/05/16/1166525/programa-ignition-05.html
