Who we support
Whether you’re a researcher launching a spinout, a fast-growing venture scaling up, or an established SME exploring new opportunities, there’s tailored support to help you succeed.
Who we support
Spinouts and Start-ups
Entrepreneurially minded researchers and start-ups aiming for first prototype development and/or first Seed funding.
Technology support
With over 30 renowned photonics technology support providers, the PhotonHub partner network spans a wide range of cutting-edge technology platforms, facilitating open access and guided orientation to the broadest possible range of photonics expertise, equipment and technologies available from the best facilities throughout Europe. Technology Readiness Level (TRL) supports for a deep innovation project are delivered by one or more PhotonHub partners who provide guidance on commercial and technical development through photonics-led innovation. This offering covers the entire value chain from early-stage concept (TRL2) and prototyping (TRL3-4) to upscaling (TRL5-7).
You can benefit from:
- EU subsidies of up to 100% of the cost of your deep innovation project
- Expert assessment on the technical viability of your planned innovation
- Involvement of one or more partners with the relevant expertise and experience to support your needs through every step of your project
- Access to PhotonHub’s Demo & Experience Centers for hands-on training in your targeted photonics technology domain
- Guidance on photonics manufacturing and the EU supply chain
Business support
Business coaching and Investment Readiness Level (IRL) support is aligned to TRL support activities. These supports run parallel with but independently of the deep innovation projects. They are delivered by the Business Coaching Team at VUB B-PHOT Brussels Photonics together with renowned funding specialists Tech Tour and/or intellectual property (IP) specialists Sonnenberg Harrison. The aim is to guide you in the formulation of a clear business plan aimed at maximising your potential for raising initial venture capital.
You can benefit from:
- Fully subsidised support to help you reach your funding goals
- Specialised workshops for investment readiness coaching
- Mentoring sessions with industry experts to refine your business models and strategies
- Investor pitch training
- Expert advice and support with the protection of your innovations while navigating the pathway to commercialisation
- Guidance on licensing and on protecting company and brand names
Who we support
Scaling ventures
Fast-growing ventures aiming for advanced prototyping and upscaling, and/or Series A/B funding.
Technology support
With over 30 renowned photonics technology support providers, the PhotonHub partner network spans a wide range of cutting-edge technology platforms, facilitating open access and guided orientation to the broadest possible range of photonics expertise, equipment and technologies available from the best facilities throughout Europe. Technology Readiness Level (TRL) supports for a deep innovation project are delivered by one or more PhotonHub partners who provide guidance on commercial and technical development through photonics-led innovation. This offering covers the entire value chain from early-stage concept (TRL2) and prototyping (TRL3-4) to upscaling (TRL5-7).
You can benefit from:
- EU subsidies of up to 100% of the cost of your deep innovation project
- Expert assessment on the technical viability of your planned innovation
- Involvement of one or more partners with the relevant expertise and experience to support your needs through every step of your project
- Access to PhotonHub’s Demo & Experience Centers for hands-on training in your targeted photonics technology domain
- Guidance on photonics manufacturing and the EU supply chain
Business support
A targeted support programme has been specifically designed to overcome the pivotal challenges faced during the scaling phase. Regular peer-to-peer exchange sessions allow scaling companies like yours to share experiences, strategies, and solutions for navigating the upscaling process effectively. You can gain access to a wealth of resources and expertise aimed at bridging the gap between prototyping and volume production, all delivered through the Business Coaching Team at VUB B-PHOT Brussels Photonics together with renowned funding specialists Tech Tour and intellectual property (IP) specialists Sonnenberg Harrison.
You can benefit from:
- Personalised business mentoring sessions to refine strategies for market expansion
- Increased engagement with key supply chain actors
- Advanced technical workshops focused on addressing the complexities of scaling up photonics technologies
- Funding advisory support services to prepare your company for major venture capital investment and increased visibility with suitable investors
- Participation in the annual EPVF event to pitch to investors, have 1-to-1 investor meetings and to network with other successful entrepreneurs
- Guidance on IP and patent strategy
Who we support
Established SMEs
Established SMEs (and some large-scale companies) aiming for initial feasibility and prototyping and/or business case for financing.
Technology support
With over 30 renowned photonics technology support providers, the PhotonHub partner network spans a wide range of cutting-edge technology platforms, facilitating open access and guided orientation to the broadest possible range of photonics expertise, equipment and technologies available from the best facilities throughout Europe. Technology Readiness Level (TRL) supports for a deep innovation project are delivered by one or more PhotonHub partners who provide guidance on commercial and technical development through photonics-led innovation. This offering covers the entire value chain from early-stage concept (TRL2) and prototyping (TRL3-4) to upscaling (TRL5-7).
You can benefit from:
- EU subsidies of up to 100% of the cost of your deep innovation project
- Expert assessment on the technical viability of your planned innovation
- Involvement of one or more partners with the relevant expertise and experience to support your needs through every step of your project
- Access to PhotonHub’s Demo & Experience Centers for hands-on training in your targeted photonics technology domain
- Guidance on photonics manufacturing and the EU supply chain
Business support
In line with the granting of deep innovation support projects, a bespoke business coaching program has been developed for established SMEs that are first users and early adopters of photonics. Delivered by the Business Coaching Team at VUB B-PHOT Brussels Photonics together with renowned funding specialists Tech Tour and intellectual property (IP) specialists Sonnenberg Harrison, the program focuses on providing expert guidance in key areas critical to photonics technology deployment and business growth, including business strategy, investment acquisition, intellectual property management, cost modelling and advanced manufacturing techniques suited to photonics.
You can benefit from:
- Ongoing support in strengthening key aspects of your business plan based on the initial investment readiness level (IRL) assessment, which can include:
- Target market
- Route-to-market
- Competitive positioning
- Value proposition – Unique Selling Points
- Financial business case
- Additional specialist coaching support if appropriate/required in IP and patents and/or venture capital funding
- One-to-one tailored coaching on an as-needed basis
