Questions about our idea
What do you mean by deep tech?
Deep tech are the science breakthroughs and technologies that escape the lab. You are probably building a deep tech solution if your team can’t build an “MVP” today and ship it tomorrow on Product Hunt. Deep tech startups have long journeys to convert lab research into sellable products and beyond. Today’s deep tech categories include robotics, biodevices, new energy technologies, quantum hardware, and more. If you are unsure, please ask us at hello@innovationacademy.io.
We see this program is supported by NATO. Does our team’s idea need to address defense or security?
No, your team’s idea does not need to relate to defense or security. Your idea does require some type of deep tech aspect to qualify.
Questions about our team eligibility
I am a researcher with a deep tech idea, but I do not have a team yet. Can I apply without a team?
No, you need to apply as a team. At least two team members should attend and serve as co-founders in the shareholder paperwork filed during the program.
We have already incorporated as a company in Europe (or elsewhere). Can we still apply?
Maybe. Your team may be too far along in your development journey, so you won’t find our help as useful as other pre-startup teams. Email us, and we are happy to chat about your path and program fit.
At least one of our team members participated in an accelerator before. Can we apply?
Maybe. Similar to our response above, your team may be too far along in your development journey, so you won’t find our help as useful as other pre-startup teams. Email us, and we are happy to chat about your path and program fit.
We will have a schedule conflict during part of the onsite program. Can we apply if we miss an hour or more?
No. Due to high demand, we prioritize teams who take this program commitment seriously. We expect all registered team members to attend for the duration of the entire onsite program and at least 90% of all related online modules. Any team members with unexpected personal circumstances or an extenuating medical situation should inform us immediately.
Is there a wait list for teams?
Yes, there is a wait list. We will notify teams when any spot opens up.
At least one team member does not live in a recognized NATO member nation or NATO partner nation. Is our team eligible?
The NATO organization has 32 member nations and maintains relations with 35 non-member countries (and multiple international organizations) called NATO partners. Team members must currently reside in a NATO member nation or partner nation to be eligible to apply and attend. If a team member holds a (dual) passport in a non-NATO nation, yet currently lives in a NATO member nation or partner nation, then she or he may be able to attend the Deeptech Innovation Academy with advance notice and written permission. Team members who currently live in a non-NATO nation are not eligible to apply.
Questions about program costs
What costs does the Deeptech Innovation Academy pay for?
For each registered team member, we pay for the following costs:
Full program admission
Six (6) nights of lodging, including local hotel taxes, at the selected program hotel for those traveling over 150km to attend (approx 1hr train ride each way)
City transit multi-day pass
Morning coffee breaks
Two group dinners
What costs do teams pay for?
Your team is responsible for paying for all remaining costs, including:
Transportation to and fro to the onsite program (e.g., plains, trains, and automobiles)
All other local transit not covered by the program (e.g., bus, Uber, taxi)
All other meals not covered by the program
Extra or special hotel services not covered by the program
Your personal work and computing devices (e.g., laptop, tablet)
Are scholarships or travel stipends available for teams in need?
No, we do not provide special financial assistance to teams at this time. We welcome hearing from organizations and groups that would like to sponsor any teams or donate to this cause.
What if we have a question not on the FAQ list?
Please contact us with your questions. We look forward to hearing from you!