Explorer
Explorer is a deep-tech pre-commercialisation programme led by IPIC, the Research Ireland Centre for photonics (formerly SFI), with the generous support of ams OSRAM. This tailored training and mentorship programme is open to researchers from all Universities across the island of Ireland that are developing deep tech solutions to evaluate the commercial merits of their innovations and to learn about what is involved in the commercialisation of technology. With the support of technical and commercial mentors, a key deliverable of the programme is the development of Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund Feasibility Study Grant and the Commercialisation Fund Award applications which provide a pathway for the teams to deliver viable products, services and start-ups. If you would like to find out more about the Explorer Programme please send an email to [email protected].
About
Explorer pre-commercialisation programme 2025 is a collaboration led by IPIC, the Research Ireland Centre for photonics (formerly SFI), with Tyndall National Institute, ams- Osram, CONNECT, (the Research Ireland Centre for Future Networks and Communications), with support of Enterprise Ireland, Atlantic Bridge, IPCEI Microelectronics and Communication Technologies, Nova UCD, eg technology, MIDAS Ireland and Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland.
Aims and Benefits
Explorer pre-commercialisation programme is a 3-month training and mentorship course for a cohort of 8-10 teams in deep-tech areas. It will nurture high-potential teams & technology-holders on their path:
- to start the spin-off journey
- to learn about commercialisation of the technology
- to develop industrial and entrepreneurial soft skills
The attendees will benefit from:
- Tailored agenda for deep-tech entrepreneurship
- Both industry and academy partners
- Practical mentorship to better overcome the technical & business issues
- Feedback on how to apply for a CF or FS grant, if applicable.
What are we looking for
If you believe you have an idea in deep-tech sectors, that have a potential to be commercialised, join the explorer programme and explore the initial steps you need to take on your journey.
Who is eligibile?
We are looking for researchers in deep tech sectors such as advanced materials, photonics, semiconductor, biotechnology, nanotechnology, robotics, electronics and other deep-tech areas. Ideal applicant is a team of 2-4 people, residents of the island of Ireland who have an early stage idea, with developments done on the the technology.
8 to 10 teams will be selected to participate on 3-month workshops and mentorship sessions.
Timeline
The programme starts in the first week of February and concludes in the first week of May. Applications will be open on 21st October 2024.
| Workshop 1 | Explorer LaunchPad Overview & Team Building | 06 February 2025 |
| Workshop 2 | Big Picture, Technology Enabled Product Development | 07 February 2025 |
| Workshop 3 | IP and Competitive landscape | 13 February 2025 |
| Workshop 4 | Customer engagement for tech product | 06 March 2025 |
| Workshop 5 | Market Development for early stage deep-tech startups | 13 March 2025 |
| Workshop 6 | Technology Commercialisation plan | 10 April 2025 |
| Workshop 7 | Presentation & step to Commercialisation Fund | 17 April 2025 |
| Show Case Day | Present the outcomes to the audience | 08 May 2025 |
* Most sessions will be conducted online, but there will be two in-person sessions, as well as the showcase event.
* The mentorship sessions and feedback meetings will be held in between the workshops on a weekly/biweekly basis.
Download Brochure
Download the 2025 Explorer brochure here.
Ask Us a question
If you have any questions, please email us.