NTP Belgrade · Programs

Raising Starts

A Program for the Development, Validation, and Market Readiness of Innovations

About the Program

From Initial Validation to Growth Readiness

Raising Starts is a pre-seed accelerator program designed for startups and startup teams in the early stages of development that want to turn their innovative technology solution into a sustainable and scalable business.

The program combines intensive education, individual mentoring, access to experts and innovation infrastructure, and performance-based financial support of up to CHF 30,000, enabling teams to successfully validate their products, prepare for investment, and enter international markets.

The program is implemented as part of the Technopark 3 – Innovate Forward (2025–2029) project, with the support of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) of the Government of the Swiss Confederation.

Who Is the Program For?

Is Raising Starts the Right Program for You?

01

Startup Teams

Innovative Technology Solution · Prototype or MVP

  • A Team of at Least Two Members
  • Development of an Innovative Software, Hardware, or Hybrid Solution
  • Need for Market Validation and Business Model Improvement
  • Ambition for Further Development and International Market Expansion
02

Early-Stage Technology Startups

Registered in Serbia · Up to Two Years in Business

  • A Micro-Sized Company Registered in the Republic of Serbia
  • A Developed Product with Scaling Potential
  • Focus on Investment Readiness and Sustainable Growth
  • Readiness for Intensive Development Through Mentoring, Education, and Financial Support
The Program Includes

What Can You Expect?

Everything You Need for the Next Stage of Development

01

Education

Through workshops and practical training, you will develop knowledge in product development, market validation, business modeling, scaling, and investment readiness.

02

Mentoring

You will work with local and international experts who provide support tailored to your startup’s stage of development.

03

Financial Support

The most successful teams may receive performance-based financial support of up to CHF 30,000 for product development, market validation, and other eligible expenses..

04

Infrastructure

You will have access to the laboratories, prototyping equipment, and technological resources of the Science Technology Park Belgrade, including 3D printing, CNC machines, laser processing, and other development infrastructure.

05

No-Equity Model

The program does not require giving up any equity. Teams retain full ownership of their company and innovation.

06

Community

You become part of a network of startup founders, mentors, investors, partners, and organizations working together to build Serbia’s innovation ecosystem.

Program Phases

The Raising Starts Development Journey?

Step 1

Application and Selection

Step 2

Phase 1

Product Development and Financial Support

Step 3

Demo Day

Step 4

Phase 2

Product Development and Financial Support

Step 5

After the Program

Application

What Is Required?

  • A team of at least two members or a micro-sized company registered in the Republic of Serbia (up to two years old).
  • A Developed Innovative Technology Solution (Software, Hardware, or Hybrid)
  • A Prototype or MVP with Potential for Further Development and Market Validation
  • A Completed Application Form with a Description of the Team, Solution, and Stage of Development
  • Clear Motivation for Participation and Commitment to Active Engagement Throughout the Program
  • Compliance with the Public Call Requirements

Note: Detailed eligibility criteria, required documentation, and application deadlines will be defined in each public call.

Gallery

The Program Through the Lens

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Startup teams of at least two members, as well as micro-sized companies registered in the Republic of Serbia and no more than two years old, may apply, in accordance with the requirements of the public call. The program is intended for teams developing innovative technology solutions and with a developed prototype or MVP.

No. Informal startup teams with at least two members can also apply. Registered micro-sized companies are also eligible to participate, in accordance with the requirements of the public call.

No. Raising Starts is a no-equity program, meaning participants retain full ownership of their startup and innovative solution.

During the second phase of the program, selected teams may receive performance-based, non-refundable financial support of up to CHF 30,000, intended for product or service development and other eligible expenses.

The selection process includes an evaluation of applications based on the quality of the innovative solution, team potential, product development stage, and market growth potential. Teams with the greatest potential will be invited to participate in the program.

The program is implemented in two phases, covering education, mentoring, product development, and financial support. The exact duration and schedule of the program are defined in each public call.

Yes. Active participation in workshops, mentoring sessions, and other program activities is an important part of the Raising Starts program and is one of the prerequisites for receiving the full benefits of the program.

Yes. The program is designed to support the development of innovative technology solutions, including software, hardware, and hybrid products, with teams having access to the development infrastructure of the Science Technology Park Belgrade when needed.

Recognized and Supported by the Program Partners