Welcome to SportUp Boost NL, the first step in transforming your sports tech startup idea into a thriving reality. We’re dedicated to nurturing early-stage startups, providing essential guidance, and fostering direct networking opportunities.
Our program zeroes in on product-market fit, aligning your concept with market demand.
Engage in a series of workshops specially curated to accelerate your development.
Benefit from hands-on feedback and personalized advice from coaches experienced in sports, sports products and services, and business modeling.
Our program spans three months, organized twice a year, to ensure thorough guidance and validation.
Between workshops, you’ll have dedicated weeks for desk work, validation, and refining your pitch.
Join as a team of up to three people for €750 (excluding VAT).
Upon completing SportUp Boost NL, you may qualify for consideration in the prestigious imec.istart.nl accelerator program. This opportunity can propel your startup even further.
SportUp Boost NL operates in four hubs, supported by Sportinnovator. Each hub is specializing in specific sports, health and physical activity domains. These hubs offer more than just a program; they represent a strong network of key stakeholders, provide access to office space and unique testing facilities.
Amsterdam Institute of Sports Science (performance sport, physical activity/vitality, sports medical care)
Team NL Innovation Center (sports nutrition)
Thialf (performance sport, physical activity/vitality, sports facility)
Orange Sports Forum (performance sport, physical activity/vitality)
Open Call: We maintain an ongoing open call throughout the year. Startups can request an intake meeting to explore how SportUp Boost NL can benefit them.
Review Panel: At the end of January and end of August, our team of experts reviews individually all submitted startup proposals.
Selection: Mid February and mid October our jury members comes together and decides which teams will join the intensive 3-month program.
Program Starts: Once selected, the real work begins. The chosen startups receive personalized coaching and participate in workshops, setting them on the path to success.
The SportUp Boost Pre-Accelerator Program pilot will cost only €375,- instead of €750,- (50% discount).
Entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
1. Focus on Sports and Physical Activity Innovation: The program is designed for entrepreneurs who are passionate about innovating in the field of sports and physical activity. This includes areas such as sports performance, health, nutrition, and sports facility management.
2. Growth Ambition: Applicants should demonstrate a clear ambition to grow their startup. Whether you're at the concept stage or already have a prototype, the program is looking for entrepreneurs who aspire to make a significant impact in the sports and vitality sector.
3. Diverse and Complementary Team: Ideal teams consist of at least two members who bring expertise in product or service development and market-oriented skills. Additionally, having a team member focused on operations and financials is beneficial. However, incomplete teams are still welcome to apply.
4. Netherlands-Based: Applicants should be based in the Netherlands. The program aims to support and nurture innovation within the country.
5. Market-Driven Idea: You should have a product or service idea that is driven by market needs and demands. The program values ideas that have the potential to meet these market needs effectively.
6. Concept or Prototype Stage: Whether you have a conceptual idea or a prototype of your product or service, you're eligible to apply. The program can help you refine and develop your concept further.
7. Initial Business Model: While you don't need a fully-fledged business plan, having an initial business model idea is important. This includes considering how your innovation will generate revenue and create value in the market.
8. Full Ownership of Innovation (or Working Towards It): Applicants are encouraged to have full ownership of their innovation, including intellectual property and rights. If full ownership is not yet established, applicants should be actively working towards securing it. This demonstrates a commitment to maintaining control over your innovation and its future development.
By meeting these criteria, you’ll be well-positioned to leverage the resources and support provided by the Boost Program to accelerate the development and growth of your sports and vitality startup.
Do you fit the bill? Don’t hesitate to apply now and embark on your entrepreneurial journey with SportUp.nl.
Or if you have more questions, see our Q&A page
