Funding is awarded in the form of a repayable, interest-free loan earmarked for a specific purpose. It is a personal loan that is granted to the company founder with a maximum term of eight years. Repayment begins after the third year.
Requirements for funding
Funding is possible if the following criteria are met:
- The project concerns a start-up company with a business model that implements a technological innovation.
- The business idea, business plan and technology basis meet the quality criteria defined by the STI.
- The (planned) company headquarters are located in the Espace Mittelland region (Cantons BE, SO, FR, NE and JU).
The STI defines a start-up as:
- a young company (in the founding phase or a maximum of five years after foundation)
- a company with an innovative, technology-based approach
- a company with a clear focus on growth
Procedure
Submit your idea to our partner organisation be-advanced – applications can be submitted at an early stage of the project.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will have the opportunity to present your project in person, initially to the be-advanced committee of experts and, at a later date, to the STI Foundation Board.
As a rule, a decision on your application will be made within three months of the submission deadline.
The loan is paid into the private account of successful applicants after the loan agreement by the STI has been signed by both parties.
Criteria
- Innovation based on a technological approach
- Willingness to make a personal and financial commitment to the project
- Entrepreneurial personality, professional qualifications and above-average commitment of the applicant
- Early stage of development and proven feasibility potential of the project
- Proven innovative content of the product/service and business model
- Economic growth potential clearly specifiable and recognizable
- Realistic objectives for the project
- Clear and transparent activity schedule and financial plan with a presentation of realistic assumptions
- Responsible management position of the applicant in the company
- Company form: independent start-up
- Entrepreneurial relevance and start-up in the Espace Mittelland region (Cantons BE, SO, FR, NE and JU)
