Are you a researcher at Wageningen University & Research looking to scale the impact of your research?

We’re here to help you transform your high-quality research into a successful science-backed agrifood company. We believe entrepreneurship greatly enhances the societal impact of research performed within the university.

Since 2010, StartLife has built, supported, and funded more than 400 startups, many of which are based on cutting-edge science from Wageningen University & Research. We provide researchers with all the tools, training, network and funding required, so starting and growing a company becomes as efficient and effective as possible.

 Examples of science-backed agrifood startups we’ve worked with are:

• FUMI Ingredients: produces animal-free food ingredients from micro-organisms.
• Time-travelling Milkman: natural and creamy fat ingredients for sustainable and appetizing dairy alternatives.
• Rival Foods: creates next-generation plant-based whole-cuts with unprecedented size, texture and juiciness.

Check the video below to learn more about Rival Foods and how they benefited from StartLife’s startup support.

How does it work?

If you’re a PhD student, post-doc, professor, or another fundamental- or applied researcher at Wageningen University or Wageningen Research, don’t hesitate to reach out to explore how we can help you build a science-backed agrifood company. There are two main options:

1) Personal intake with StartLife

If you’d like to discuss the possibilities of creating impact with your research with us personally, you can request an intake with one of the StartLife coaches. Please reach out to us explaining who you are and what your research is about.

2) Develop business skills as a student
At student incubator StartHub Wageningen, StartLife organizes a wide range of workshops and courses that help students improve their business skills. Moreover, it is a meeting place for young scientists interested in entrepreneurship.

Courses for students

If you’re a BSc, MSc or PhD student exploring the possibility to start your own company, we can help as well. There are several courses and event specifically for Wageningen University students. These are organized by our student incubator StartHub Wageningen. In addition to courses, StartHub frequently organizes network events, drinks and inspiring guest lectures from successful entrepreneurs.