FAQs - Faculty of Impact

Q: Is it a big leap to go from researcher to entrepreneur?

It might feel like a big step, but you won’t be doing it alone. At the Faculty of Impact, you'll receive hands-on support through expert coaching, mentoring, and tailored training to help you develop entrepreneurial skills — even if you've never started a venture before. You’ll be surrounded by a community of like-minded fellows and experienced guides who’ve walked the same path. And the best part? You're not burning any bridges. If you decide entrepreneurship isn’t for you, you can always return to academia. This program is designed to open doors, not close them.

Q: €200.000 in (non-dilutive) funding? Can this be real?

Yes, it’s real — and there’s a good reason behind it. The Dutch government is actively investing in the commercialization (or "valorization") of research to stimulate the economy and generate positive societal impact. Through the Faculty of Impact program, researchers can receive up to €200.000 in non-dilutive funding over two years — meaning you keep full ownership of your idea, without giving up equity or IP. This funding allows you to focus full-time on translating your academic research into a real-world solution, whether it’s a startup or a social enterprise. It covers your salary and essential project costs, so you can move from science to startup with world-class training and support — all backed by the Dutch government.

How tough is the selection process?

Is it a big leap to go from researcher to entrepreneur?

€200.000 in (non-dilutive) funding? Can this be real?