University of Amsterdam Launches Faculty of Impact Fellowships to Boost Entrepreneurship in Science

What the Faculty of Impact Fellowship Means for HIMS Researchers

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) has announced two new Faculty of Impact fellowships specifically designed for researchers at the Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS). These fellowships aim to bridge the gap between academic discovery and commercial application, providing up to €200,000 in funding and a two‑year intensive coaching program. The initiative reflects the growing emphasis on entrepreneurship in science within the Netherlands and positions UvA as a leader in translating research into market‑ready solutions.

Key Features of the Fellowship Program

• Substantial Funding: Fellows receive up to €200,000 to develop their startup concepts, covering prototype development, market research, and initial operating costs.
• Coaching and Mentorship: A structured curriculum that covers business model design, fundraising strategies, intellectual property, and scaling operations.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to a network of investors, industry partners, and alumni entrepreneurs across Europe.
• Time‑Bound Commitment: A two‑year program that encourages rapid progress and tangible milestones.

Success Stories: From Lab to Market

Optical‑DOSY – Transforming Spectroscopy into a Commercial Platform

Dr Giulia Giubertoni, a HIMS researcher, co‑invented Optical‑DOSY, a technique that couples optical spectroscopy with size‑sensitivity to analyze molecules and nanoparticles in solution. The method has immediate applications in pharmaceutical encapsulation, where measuring the fraction of active drug within nanoparticles is critical for efficacy and safety.

Giubertoni founded InspectT to commercialize Optical‑DOSY. With NWO Demonstrator and IXA Proof‑of‑Concept grants, the first prototype was built. The Faculty of Impact fellowship will now help her transition from academic scientist to serial entrepreneur, providing the business acumen needed to scale the product globally.

Envisens – Sustainable Enzyme‑Based Biosensors for Early Cancer Detection

Dr Zheng Wei, a postdoc at Chalmers University, collaborated with the HIMS Biocatalysis group to develop an enzyme‑based biosensor that detects NADPH, a key biomarker in several cancers. The biosensor offers high accuracy, low cost, and reusability, making it suitable for home use and large‑scale screening.

Wei co‑founded Envisens to bring this technology to market. The upcoming fellowship will support Wei in establishing the company’s commercial strategy, securing patents, and building a sustainable business model.

How to Position Your Research for a Fellowship

Researchers interested in the Faculty of Impact fellowship should focus on the following actionable steps:

1. Identify a Clear Market Need: Translate your scientific discovery into a problem that has a measurable market size. Use tools like the Value Proposition Canvas to articulate the benefit to potential customers.
2. Develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP): Build a prototype that demonstrates core functionality. The UvA’s funding is earmarked for early‑stage development, so an MVP is essential.
3. Secure Intellectual Property: File provisional patents or file for a joint patent with collaborators. IP protection is a key criterion for the fellowship’s selection panel.
4. Build a Cross‑Functional Team: Recruit co‑founders with complementary skills—e.g., a business development lead, a regulatory specialist, or a marketing expert.
5. Prepare a Business Plan: Outline revenue streams, cost structure, go‑to‑market strategy, and financial projections. The coaching program will refine this plan, but a solid draft increases your chances of selection.
6. Engage with the UvA Ecosystem: Attend entrepreneurship workshops, pitch events, and networking sessions hosted by the Faculty of Impact. Early engagement signals commitment and helps you build relationships with mentors.

Funding Landscape in the Netherlands for Science‑Based Startups

Beyond the Faculty of Impact, Dutch researchers have access to a robust funding ecosystem:

• Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO): Offers grants for technology transfer and innovation.
• Innovation Fund (Innovatie Fonds): Supports high‑risk, high‑impact projects.
• European Union Horizon Europe: Provides large‑scale research and innovation funding.
• Private Venture Capital: Firms such as ABN AMRO Ventures and KPN Ventures actively invest in life‑science startups.

Understanding these funding streams allows fellows to plan a diversified capital strategy, combining grants, equity, and revenue‑based financing.

Coaching Curriculum Highlights

The two‑year coaching program covers:

• Business model canvas and lean startup methodology.
• Fundraising tactics, including pitch deck creation and investor outreach.
• Regulatory pathways for medical devices and diagnostics.
• Intellectual property strategy and licensing agreements.
• Scaling operations and building a high‑performance team.

Fellows will also receive one‑on‑one mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and access to a peer network for knowledge exchange.

Measuring Success: Milestones and KPIs

To demonstrate progress, fellows should track:

1. Prototype validation and performance metrics.
2. Regulatory milestones (e.g., CE marking, FDA pre‑submission).
3. Revenue or pilot contracts secured.
4. Team growth and skill development.
5. IP filings and patent portfolio expansion.

Regular reporting to the Faculty of Impact ensures accountability and provides opportunities for additional support.

Next Steps for Aspiring Fellows

Researchers who believe their work can transition to a commercial product should:

• Review the Faculty of Impact website for application deadlines and eligibility criteria.
• Prepare a concise pitch deck that highlights the scientific breakthrough, market potential, and business plan.
• Reach out to the UvA’s entrepreneurship office for a pre‑application discussion.
• Gather a small team of co‑founders or advisors to strengthen the application.
• Submit the application before the deadline and be ready to present in a selection panel.

Call to Action

Ready to transform your research into a market‑ready solution? Submit your application today and join a cohort of innovators who are reshaping science entrepreneurship in the Netherlands.

Have questions about the fellowship or need guidance on preparing your business plan? Schedule a free consultation with the UvA entrepreneurship office.

Want to learn more about similar programs? Explore our related articles for further reading and stay updated on the latest trends in science‑based entrepreneurship.

Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below – your insights could inspire the next generation of science entrepreneurs.