Imec.istart, imec’s open accelerator program, offers tech startups pre-seed funding and tailored support to succeed and grow globally.
Since 2011, we have invested in more than 300 companies. Every year, we select around 30 high-potential startups to join our 12-month program in Belgium.
And as an investor, we’re in it for the long run. Together with the imec.istart alumni network, we continue to help founders on their entrepreneurial journey ... and beyond.
Receive €100k investment and optionally €150k extra for the best performing startups in our portfolio
Consult with your
personal day-to-day sparring partner, strengthened by an extensive network of workshop experts, mentors, ...
Surf on the collective wisdom of +500 like-minded digital tech entrepreneurs.
Tap into our global network to scale your business internationally.
Leverage your connection with a globally recognized R&D and innovation hub.
Imec's accelerator program, imec.istart, is ranked number 1 in the 'World Top Business Accelerator - Linked to University' category. UBI Global unveiled its biannual ranking of top university incubators and accelerators at the World Incubation Summit in Ghent, Belgium. The ranking puts imec.istart at the top of the list of accelerators for technology startups.
The imec.istart program helps you to you reach important milestones such as getting your startup and product ready for the market, growth and investors.
Reach a fully functioning solution
Align your product to your target customers and refine your market and strategy roadmap.
Acquire the necessary skills and knowhow to scale your business and plow through the inevitable growing pains.
Define your perfect funding mix and convince our investor network with your polished pitch.
We welcome startups who have a
Tech product
Working proof of concept
Complementary founding team
Adshot
Airshaper
A trusted network of corporates, mentors, investors and ecosystem partners
Eager to connect with imec.istart companies since 2011.
