IBBT iStart incubator

IBBT is an independent research institute founded by the Flemish government to stimulate ICT innovation. The IBBT team offers companies and organizations active support in research and development. It brings together businesses, authorities, and non-profit organisations on research projects. Both technical and non-technical issues are addressed within each of these projects. In an ever-changing world, where products and services need to change and adapt at an ever faster pace, companies need an adapted business model to bring products and services to the market. A business model that supports validated learning in order to elaborate their business model and product features according to market and customer experience.

iStart focuses specifically on the further development and public launch of technology innovations and results of their research projects. Participants have the opportunity, as entrepreneur under the wing of IBBT, to create a business model, to develop prototypes, to carry out market research and field trials and, based on these, present a strategy for market launch and a financial plan.

Using the results of this procedure the company is assessed to validate if it is ready to take the next step. Based on a number of criteria an evaluation is made: should the product be developed further (either internally or externally), are there licensing opportunities present, could a project lead to the setting up of a spin-off? In 2012, we are joining forces to put Flanders forward as the Hot Spot for Product Innovation.

During this program we will provide a hands-on Product Innovation Track to a wide range of companies launching new products on the market. The learning track includes various topics such as: – Lean Startup – Business Model Innovation – Customer Development and Market Research – Effective Collaboration Practices – Agile Product Development – Service Design – Management Innovation Right now, a number of companies are already experiencing the iStart program, such as:

Be sure to have a look around on their websites! Spiked your interest? Our Product Innovation Track is currently running as a Private Beta at IBBT iStart but will be launched to the public soon. Contact us if your company is planning to lauch a new product and/or service on the market, maybe we can be of assistance and grant you one of the limited slots for 2012!