Making more societal impact with research results
A 4TU+. Centre programme connecting researchers with entrepreneurial students to valorise scientific innovations in High-Tech Materials.
About the Programme
Under the banner of Ideation Labs, Delft University of Technology has developed a proven programme in which top students from Dutch universities work on the valorisation of scientific innovations and the exploration of their societal and commercial impact.
Building on this model, knowledge institutions across the Netherlands are launching thematic Ideation Labs focused on accelerating the valorisation of scientific research within High-Tech Materials.
This initiative is organised by the 4TU.Centre High-Tech Materials (4TU+), a collaboration between Delft University of Technology, Eindhoven University of Technology, University of Twente, Wageningen University & Research, and the University of Groningen. Together, they form a national hub for advanced materials research and innovation.
Materials are at the heart of innovation and economic growth, underpinning sectors such as energy, healthcare, mobility and infrastructure. Within the High-Tech Materials Centre, researchers combine fundamental insights at the micro- and nanoscale with advanced characterisation and modelling to design next-generation materials that are stronger, lighter, smarter and more sustainable.
How It Works
Ideation Labs bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact. The program unites researchers with entrepreneurial students, offering workshops and expert coaching. With a 'science first' approach, researchers can assess the commercial and societal potential of their work without needing to become founders.
The goal is rapid, actionable results: transforming scientific breakthroughs into viable products, startups, or follow-up trajectories such as spin-outs, licenses, pilots, further research, or grant applications.
Your effort
Timeline 2026-2027
- Now - April 2026: Scouting students & Identifying researchers and research cases
- May - June 2026: Matchmaking – Connecting researchers with students
- September 2026-2027: Programme Runs – 5-month intensive programme
Key Dates
The programme consists of three steps: application, matchmaking, and a 5-month programme.
- Submit your application (Students)
Deadline: Sun 26 April - Submit your research case (Researchers)
Deadline: Mon 11 May - Matchmaking Event (In-person, Delft)
Fri 5 June (13:00 – 17:30) - Final Teams Confirmed
Mon 23 June - Programme Duration
September 2026 – February 2027
How the process works
- Students apply before the deadline. After signing up, the selection process starts with a short 10-minute online introduction call to align expectations. Selected students are invited to the matchmaking event.
- Researchers start by submitting an interest form. After a short intake with the Impact Studio team, selected researchers receive a template to submit a 1–2 page case summary, which is shared with students ahead of the programme.
- During the Matchmaking Event in Delft, students and researchers meet and get to know each other through a live speeddating format.
- Based on the interactions and preferences from both sides, teams are formed and confirmed by 23 June. Only selected participants continue into the programme.
Previous programmes
At the GroenvermogenNL Ideation Lab (2025-2026) speed-date event, many things came together: talent, curiosity, and the drive to take research further! (More information on previous programmes of TU Delft's Impact Studio in collaboration with 4TU. can be found here!)
Ready to Join?
Join the next cohort and turn your talent into real-world impact
Questions?
Contact: ideationlabs@tudelft.nl
This initiative is a collaboration between five leading Dutch knowledge institutions
