Innosuisse Start-up Innovation Projects

Innosuisse supports science-based innovation projects of Swiss start-ups with significant innovation potential to prepare them for entering the market for the first time. The funding instrument offers direct financial support exclusively to the start-up without requiring a research partner, covering up to 70 percent of direct project costs while the start-up contributes at least 30 percent. Projects must be based on application-oriented research and focus on the transition from prototyping and validation to initial market launch. Open across all topic areas—including ICT, Life Sciences, Engineering, Energy & Environment, and Social Sciences & Business Management—the program targets scalable start-ups based in Switzerland that are registered in the Swiss commercial registry, have been established for no more than 5 years (up to 10 years in exceptional cases), and have fewer than 50 FTEs.

Prepare the necessary market analysis, IP clearance, and project planning materials, then submit your application online through the Innosuisse application platform at least eight weeks before an Innovation Council meeting. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch their project prior to a final funding decision.