About
The quantum innovation lab (quantum ilab) supports quantum researchers in exploring how their scientific work can be translated into practical applications, potentially leading to startups or other forms of commercialization. As such, it is our first of many efforts to support technology transfer in quantum physics in Austria. This initiative is coordinated by the Entrepreneurship Team of the University of Vienna in collaboration with the VCQ and other research institutions, incubators and venture funds, and is supported by the Cluster of Excellence QuantA. In particular, we are building on the experience of entrepreneurship initiatives by the University of Vienna, having established a variety of ilab programs over the last years.
Program Details
In an intensive bootcamp, researchers gain the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to navigate the journey from lab to market. Participants receive mentorship from industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs who offer valuable insights into the practical aspects of founding and running a quantum tech company.
Participants and mentors of the 2024 quantum ilab. Copyright: Alexander Bachmayer
Entrepreneurship Tools
During the workshop researchers will acquire the competences needed for commercial success. They will investigate case studies of existing technology, learn about deep tech innovation, intellectual property management and marketing, identify an idea and structure it into a business plan, and receive information about funding opportunities for their venture.
Broad Skill Development
The skills acquired at the quantum ilab are highly applicable to other contexts as well, not only for starting a company! Besides the hard skills taught at the workshop, which can open up new career paths, researchers also enhance soft skills such as creativity, leadership, teamwork and effective communication and presentation, which can help them in their academic life and beyond. Thus, our program can be beneficial for a diverse group of participants in their personal as well as professional development.
Mentorship and Networking
Our program facilitates connections between researchers, technology transfer organizations, incubators, industry leaders, and investors. Such a network is essential for providing motivation and inspiration, and building the partnerships needed for a venture to thrive.
Application to the 2025 program
Registration for the 2025 program is now possible here
Details: The bootcamp covering the fundamentals of entrepreneurship will take place from 25–28 September in Bad Ischl, followed by weekly webinars on advanced topics, held on Wednesday afternoons from 1 October to 5 November. The program concludes with a Demo Day on 14 November in Vienna.
Who can apply? We invite motivated researchers at all stages of their careers, including Master and PhD students, postdocs, and PIs, to apply. Additionally, if you are not a quantum researcher but from a related field such as engineering and computer science and would like to work on an idea with a connection to quantum you are welcome to apply.
The program is free for researchers from participating institutions (see below). If you are affiliated with another institution, participation may still be possible if your organization agrees to cover the program fee. Please note: due to limited spaces and to avoid no-shows, a deposit will be collected which will be fully refunded to you after the program.
Join our info webinar on 4 June at 16:30 to learn more about the program and ask your questions!
Participating institutions and partners:
Impressions from the 2024 Program
Last year’s quantum ilab bootcamp took place from 3–6 October 2024 in the beautiful lakeside town of St. Gilgen. We welcomed participants from University of Vienna, TU Wien, University of Innsbruck, JKU Linz, ISTA, and the Austrian Academy of Sciences.
Further Information
