VITO4STARTERS: Supporting sustainable start-ups
Are you a young cleantech entrepreneur or start-up with a strong project or idea committed to sustainability? Then sign up for VITO4STARTERS, an interactive pitch competition that could win you €25,000 in support.
Registration is currently not possible
What is VITO4STARTERS?
An interactive pitch competition aimed at bringing VITO's network and technical expertise within reach of inspiring entrepreneurs and start-ups. With VITO4STARTERS, VITO supports young companies that contribute to increased sustainability with technical knowledge, a proof-of-concept and/or access to infrastructure. In this way, VITO strengthens the start-up community and the Flemish economic fabric.
Who can participate?
All European startups with a project or concept committed to sustainability can apply for VITO4STARTERS.
The participation criteria for startups are:
- Company focusing on sustainability
- Established by the start of the support period
- Need for technological support or access to infrastructure
- SME according to the EU definition
Selection criteria
We select the best projects or ideas based on these criteria:
- Innovation and technology: the link between the start-up and VITO expertise
- Business model and strategy: the strength of the business plan or idea
- Team and execution: team composition, background and expertise
- Sustainability and impact: alignment with VITO’s mission to accelerate the transition to a sustainable world together!
- Pitching skills: clarity, engagement, and presentation skills
Frequently asked questions
Are you interested in the opportunities VITO4STARTERS can offer your start-up, but still have questions? Then you may find the answer on this page. If not, feel free to contact us at vito4starters@vito.be.
VITO has unique expertise and infrastructure. If you are selected, you get access to this through one of the following elements or a combination of them:
- Technological advice by VITO experts
- Building a proof-of-concept together with VITO experts
- Access to the VITO infrastructure (labs, pilot installations ...) to carry out experiments.
You will also gain access to the VITO network and VITO will ensure visibility and promotion on the VITO channels.
After completion of the VITO4STARTERS programme, you will get the opportunity to pitch for the Clean Vision Invest fund of VITO. In addition, VITO provides a preparation programme to prepare your pitch.
During the VITO4STARTERS programme more information will be provided on the investment criteria of the Clean Vision Invest fund.
During the selection process we ask not to share confidential information. The pitch event is open to the public.
Clear agreements are made before the start. At the start of the VITO4STARTERS programme, a contract will be signed including a confidentiality clause.
For more information on de minimis we refer to the VLAIO website: https://www.vlaio.be/nl/begeleiding-advies/financiering/overheidsmaatregelen/veelgestelde-vragen-de-minimis
A model declaration can be found here: Model declaration on honour of de-minimis (vlaanderen.be)
This is done entirely in consultation with the startup.
The winners of the live pitch event win a package of 25,000 EUR. The content of this package is determined in consultation with the winner and a team of VITO experts depending on the needs of the startup.
A project plan is drawn up in a number of meetings and on this basis, a contract is drawn up between VITO and the startup. This contract describes in concrete terms which responsibilities each party has and what will be delivered at the end of the programme.
Laureates
VITO4STARTERS has already produced some promising winners in its short existence. Read more about them below.
