Tech-Innovators Incubation Program
Welcome to the Tawfiq Fakhouri Entrepreneurship Initiative (T.F.E.I.), dedicated to empowering Palestinian entrepreneurs in establishing startups rooted in innovative technological ideas. As an entrepreneurial hub, our incubator invests in early-stage companies, providing a supportive framework to transform ideas into market-ready products.
The Tech Innovators Incubation Program, a key component of T.F.E.I., offers startups access to an extensive network of resources, mentorship, and facilities, both nationally and internationally. Through a competitive selection process, we identify and support visionary Palestinian entrepreneurs, accelerating their journey from idea inception to market realization.
We invite you to apply and become part of a dynamic community dedicated to technological advancement and entrepreneurial excellence.
Goal
- Our goal is to empower entrepreneurs with early-stage technological ideas by providing essential support to develop their concepts into products that achieve product-market fit
- We assist those seeking opportunities to access funds, advanced research facilities, refine their business ideas, build Minimum Viable Products (MVPs)/prototypes, and develop compelling investor pitch decks.
- By offering access to our labs, resources, and expert guidance, we facilitate the achievement of significant development milestones.
Eligibility Criteria/Who is the program for
Our 3-months Incubation program is designed to support entrepreneurs with technological solutions at various stages of development:
Program Structure
Our program offers a comprehensive, structured approach to support early-stage startups:
📋
💬
Interview Process
💡
3-Month Incubation
📣
Pitch Day
🏆
Grant Award
👥
Post Incubation Support
1) Application Submission
Prospective participants submit their applications detailing their technological solutions and entrepreneurial vision.
2) Interview Process:
Selected applicants undergo interviews to assess their alignment with the program's objectives and readiness for incubation.
3) Three-Month Incubation Period
Participants engage in an intensive incubation phase, receiving: Business Development Training, Physical Infrastructure, Mentorship and Coaching, Legal Assistance, Networking Opportunities
4) Pitch Day
At the conclusion of the incubation period, startups present their progress and business propositions to a panel of judges, investors, and industry experts.
5) Grant Awards
The top three startups demonstrating exceptional potential, dedication, and commitment each receive a grant of up to $10,000 to further accelerate their growth.
6) Post-Incubation Support
Awarded startups continue to receive support through signing an agreement with the Business Incubator, including: Ongoing Mentorship, Access to Resources, Networking Events.
Benefits of Joining the Program
Participating in our program offers a comprehensive suite of resources and support designed to accelerate your startup's growth:
Financial Support
Grants: Up to $10,000 awarded to the top three ideas demonstrating exceptional potential, dedication, and commitment.
Business Development Training
Workshops and Seminars: Access to sessions covering topics such as product-market fit, customer profiling, pitch deck creation, and customer development strategies.
Physical Infrastructure
Workspace: Office space with amenities for a productive environment.
Administrative Services: Support with accounting, HR, and other operations.
Technological and Business Guidance
Mentorship: Access to local and international mentors offering expertise.
Legal Assistance: Guidance on business registration, intellectual property, and compliance.
Networking Opportunities
Investor Access: Connections to potential investors and venture capitalists.
Partnerships: Opportunities to collaborate with industry partners.
Customer Engagement: Assistance in reaching potential customers.
Additional Support
Market Research Assistance: Guidance in understanding target audiences and trends.
Product Development Resources: Access to tools for refining your product.
Funding Preparation: Support in preparing for funding rounds and financial planning.
Application Timeline
10/12/2024 - 7/1/2025
Application Submission
Submit your application through our online portal, providing comprehensive information about your technological solution and business concept.
8/1/2025 - 20/1/2025
Initial Screening
Our team reviews all applications to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and align with the program's objectives.
21/1/2025 - 24/1/2025
Interview Invitations
Selected applicants will be invited for interviews to discuss their projects in more detail.
25/1/2025 - 30/1/2025
Interview Process
Conducted either in-person or virtually, these interviews assess the applicant's readiness and potential for success in the program.
1/2/2025 - 6/2/2025
Final Selection
Applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the program.
15/2/2025-15/5/2025
Program Commencement
The incubation program begins, providing participants with resources, mentorship, and support to develop their technological solutions.
*Note: Specific dates are subject to change
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on the following criteria, with a total possible score of 100 points:
| Criterion | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Innovative Technological Solution | Evaluates the originality and feasibility of the proposed technology. | |
| Market Potential | Assesses the problem-solution fit and the scalability within the target market. | |
| Problem Definition & Value Proposition | Examines the clarity in identifying the problem and the effectiveness of the proposed solution in addressing it. | |
| Team/Individual Capability | Considers the team/individual’s relevant skills, experience, and commitment to market fit together with business and technical skills. | |
| Alignment with Program Objectives | Measures how well the startup's development stage and goals align with the program's focus areas. | |
| Presentation Quality | Looks at the clarity, coherence, and professionalism of the application and any supporting materials. |
Note: A minimum score of 70 points is typically required for consideration into the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tech Innovators Incubation Initiative?
The Tech Innovators Incubation Initiative is a program designed to support entrepreneurs developing technological solutions. It offers resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to help startups progress from ideation to market readiness.
Should my solution be at a certain stage of development before I apply?
We accept applications from startups with only a concept and no prototype, and from teams who already selling a product to their initial customers.
However, the curriculum is most useful for startups who are still doing Customer Discovery, creating their Business Models, and forming their solutions under the various stages of development:
• Aspiring entrepreneurs with early-stage ideas.
• Entrepreneurs with validated ideas but no Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
• Founders with an MVP ready for further validation.
• Entrepreneurs with products ready for the market.
Who is considered not eligible for this program?
The Tech Innovators Incubation Initiative is specifically designed to support early-stage startups developing technological solutions. Therefore, the following are not eligible to apply:
• Established startups: startups that have been operating for more than 2 years and have moved beyond the early stages of development.
• Non-technological startups: startups that do not focus on developing or utilizing technological solutions.
• Individuals or teams without a clear business concept: applicants who lack a defined idea or plan.
• Applicants unwilling to commit to program requirements: those unable to actively participate in all program activities and meet the necessary commitments.
What is the duration of the program?
The core incubation period spans three months, followed by a pitch day and potential grant awards. Post-incubation support is also available for selected startups.
What support does the program provide?
Participants receive:
• Business development training.
• Access to physical infrastructure and administrative services.
• Mentorship and coaching from local and international experts.
• Legal assistance for business registration and compliance.
• Networking opportunities with partners, investors, and customers.
Is there any funding available?
Yes, the top three startups demonstrating exceptional potential, dedication, and commitment will each receive a grant of up to $10,000 to further accelerate their growth.
How can I apply?
Applications can be submitted through our online portal. Ensure you provide comprehensive information about your technological solution and business concept.
What is the selection process?
The selection process includes:
• Application submission.
• Initial screening.
• Interview invitations for selected applicants.
• Interview process.
• Final selection and notification.
Can I apply if I am not based in Palestine?
While the program primarily supports entrepreneurs in Palestine, applications from those with significant operations or plans to operate in Palestine are considered.
I am Palestinian but I live abroad. Can I participate?
Yes, in fact, the program encourages applications from Palestinians living in any part of the world.
Do I need an already established company to apply to the program?
No, you can be an individual, a team, or a company (for example, a corporation or LLC).
I have a great technology startup idea, but I'm not technical. Can I still apply to the program?
Yes, you can apply and might be accepted if your overall application meets the requirements. However, it's preferable that the founding team have the skills to build their product themselves, rather than outsourcing it to someone else. So, during the program, you should form a team and find a technical co-founder.
Can I submit more than one idea?
Yes, you can submit more than one idea. However, individuals are only allowed to represent one team / idea during the program.
Can I change my submission form after it is already submitted?
Once your entry is submitted you will not be allowed to change or edit it; however, you will be allowed to submit additional materials/information before the final deadline. However, if accepted to the program you are allowed to change and refine your idea/concept during the first 3-4 weeks of the program.
What are the assessment criteria for applications?
Applications are evaluated based on:
• Innovative technological solution.
• Market potential.
• Problem definition and value proposition.
• Team capability.
• Alignment with program objectives.
• Presentation quality.
Is there a cost to participate in the program?
No, participation in the Tech Innovators Incubation Initiative is free for selected startups.
What happens after the incubation period?
After the incubation period, startups participate in a pitch day. The top three startups receive grant awards. Additionally, post-incubation support, including ongoing mentorship and access to resources, is available for selected startups.
Can I apply if I have already received funding from other sources?
Yes, startups that have received prior funding are eligible to apply, provided they meet the program's eligibility criteria.
What is expected from participants during the program?
Participants are expected to:
• Actively engage in all program activities.
• Commit to developing their startup.
• Collaborate with mentors and peers.
• Provide regular updates on progress.
How can I get more information?
For more information, please visit our website or contact our support team at bcite@alquds.edu.
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bcite@alquds.edu