Testimonials

Leo Price, University of Leiden:

“Don’t miss the opportunity to participate! The ability of the facilitators to engage in each team’s situation and therefore give incisive feedback was remarkable!”

Jeroen Voorham, Delft University of Technology:

“With this Challenge you will get a head-start in setting up your business!”

Simon Mooijaart, Leiden University Medical Center:

“If you’re a scientist with no commercial experience, the workshops are essential to gain insight in the
actual value of your research results and how you could exploit them”
 

Participants share their experiences

Bumpy rollercoaster ride from science to business

Simon Mooijaart, team: iVitality

Six groups convened for the first time in late spring 2009 in Rockanje. They were scientists mostly, but also valorisation officers from different universities. A few had business experience, most did not. The challenge was simple: make a plan to build a venture, turn your scientific findings into business. What followed were a number of intense weeks. It started with a first session lasting three full days.
Under the enthusiastic and inspiring guidance of Math Kohnen and Hans Le Fever, and inside information from Wil Hazenberg, scientists were taught to think as businessmen and women. A mind-blowing experience that turns your way of thinking upside down: "How can I earn money" instead of "How can I publish this paper"?
Of course, only one team could win the prize. FarmaScreen made an amazing venture pitch and rightfully earned the honours. Remember the name, for we are sure to hear more of them as they rock the world of pharmaceuticals. Although only one team won, we now all feel comfortable with the fast guys and girls of business: "IP, VC, USP, NDA". Been there, done that! We are off to turn our science into business. So, if you love science and you like a challenge, take the Venture Challenge!"

Skeptical at first

Bram Brouwer, team: µLife Solutions

"At first I was skeptical about the Venture Challenge. After all, I had already founded a company once. But the Venture Challenge focuses on financing through venture capital and we did not follow that track with BioDetection Systems. And my teammates had no experience with starting a business, so it seemed worthwhile to participate."
"The facilitators, Hans and Math, do a really great job. They make you think about your plan in a very structured manner by constantly asking questions that force you to make clear choices. This also stimulates you to work as a team, because you are continuously challenged to discuss and rethink your plan together." The emphasis on pitching your plan to the overall group is also really helpful, says Bram. "Again and again you have to pitch your idea and face the feedback of the group. At first, it is very hard, especially for scientists, to keep it short and simple. But it is a very good way to focus your thoughts and make you formulate your story clearly and to the point."