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Szczecin_up!

A mentoring program run by the Academic Incubator of Entrepreneurship at the University of Szczecin connecting experienced business leaders with early-stage startups; offers one-to-one mentoring, training, advisory support, networking and opportunities to pitch to investors.

Who is it for?

Startups at proof-of-concept stage and young companies (operating up to 36 months); entities not conducting business activity generally cannot apply in these categories unless the jury decides otherwise.

About the program

Szczecin_Up! is a mentoring program run by the Academic Incubator of Entrepreneurship of the University of Szczecin. Its aim is to support the development of startups and young companies from the region through individual mentoring, knowledge transfer and help preparing for market entry.

Who it's for

Proof of concept – individuals and entities developing ideas for a new product, service or technology that can be commercialized; entities already conducting business activity may not participate in this category unless the jury decides otherwise.
Young business – entities operating on the market for no longer than 36 months that intend to develop a new, innovative (at least at the company level) product, service or technology; entities not conducting business activity may not participate in this category unless the jury decides otherwise.

Forms of support

Individual mentoring – one-to-one relationships with experienced entrepreneurs, managers and industry specialists.
Competency development – training sessions focused on practical business and management skills.
Advisory – support in business and technological areas tailored to the team’s needs.
Networking – opportunities to build business contacts and exchange experiences with other participants and experts.
Presentations to investors – a chance to present solutions to individual investors and representatives of funds.

Program structure

The program process includes selection of applications and choosing participants qualified for the stage of working with mentors (a limited number of startups are selected, with places allocated between the two categories). Further activities include individual mentoring and advisory aimed at preparing for market entry with a product (Proof of concept category) or strengthening market position and launching a product (Young business category).

Who participates as mentors

Mentors in the program are experienced business leaders, entrepreneurs, managers and industry experts who share knowledge and practical guidance to support participants’ professional and business development.

The program also provides awards for winners in each category.