Have you ever wondered whether your quantum research could form the basis of a startup — or lead to solutions with impact for society and industry beyond academia?
We invite you to apply for the Nordic Quantum Ideation Workshop, a two-day hands-on program for researchers who are curious about exploring the startup potential of their research. Working in small teams, participants will investigate how scientific breakthroughs can evolve into applications with societal and commercial relevance.
The workshop will be led by facilitators from UnternehmerTUM and TUM Venture Labs Quantum, who have developed the program and successfully run six editions in Munich for quantum researchers. There will also be facilitators from University of Copenhagen and
Together with experts and mentors from KU Lighthouse, TUM, and partners across the Nordic region, you will:
· Break down research into core technologies and identify potential application areas
· Explore pathways from academic research toward research-based startups
· Learn the fundamentals of deep-tech venture creation
· Practice communicating the value of your ideas beyond the academic world
The program begins with a matchmaking dinner on 8 April, where participants meet, form teams, and choose which technology they want to work with, allowing the ideation process to start immediately on the morning of 9 April.
Dates and Location
· Matchmaking dinner: 8 April 2026
· Two-day workshop: 9–10 April 2026
· Location: The Maersk Tower, Tagensvej 16, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
Who should apply: PhD students, postdocs, researchers, and PIs working in quantum-related fields, including physics, materials, chemistry, sensing, communication, and computing. Participants may come with a concrete idea they wish to explore, or simply with curiosity about entrepreneurship and research-based startup creation.
Selection: We have space for 16-20 participants. To foster a truly Nordic cohort, participants will be selected with consideration for representation across all Nordic countries. Motivation and curiosity to explore the startup potential of research will be key criteria.
Questions? Join our Q&A webinar
We will host a short online Q&A webinar where you can learn more about the workshop and ask any questions before applying. Register and get the link by sending an email to Karen kgs@adm.ku.dk
Q&A dates: February 5 at 11:30 and February 18 at 14:30
If you are unable to attend the webinar, or if you prefer to reach out directly, you are very welcome to contact Karen Guldbæk Schmidt, innovation advisor at University of Copenhagen at kgs@adm.ku.dk.
Apply for the workshop here by March 1st 2026: Quantum Ideation Workshop - Application Form
We look forward to receiving your application!