The InnoJura Accelerator is a program designed to prepare startups for industry partnerships, particularly those active in production, manufacturing support, and high-industrial-intensity sectors like medtech. Building on the experience of the i4Challenge and DayOne Tech initiatives, the accelerator offers comprehensive support aligned with ecosystem needs. It supports early-stage industrial companies in establishing partnerships with SMEs for production and innovation, representing a structured first step within the Jura region's innovation pathway. Through a framework of coaching, group sessions, and bootcamps, participants strengthen entrepreneurial skills, refine business models, and prepare for collaborations with local SMEs.
Target Audience and Program Focus
• The program is designed for early-stage startups shaping the future of advanced manufacturing.
• This includes ventures developing advanced production technologies, smart solutions for industry and automation, or medtech innovations requiring fine manufacturing skills.
• It is particularly valuable for founders aiming to connect with production partners, test prototypes, or co-develop solutions with Swiss SMEs.
• The accelerator focuses on providing the tools, network, and industry access necessary for rapid scaling.
Core Benefits for Participants
• Industry Readiness: Gain the skills, mindset, and practical experience to transition from an early-stage idea to a partnership-ready business.
• Hands-On Learning: Refine business models and strengthen entrepreneurial skills through practical coaching, group sessions, and bootcamps.
• Partnership Preparation: Learn to effectively work with established companies, covering communication, pitching, goal alignment, and co-creation in industrial settings.
• Equity-Free Support: Access up to CHF 40,000 in in-kind support to accelerate growth and explore market opportunities without diluting equity.
Program Structure
• Build Your Foundation: Participate in a tailored program to sharpen strategy, value proposition, and go-to-market plans with expert guidance.
• Train for Collaboration: Learn to approach, pitch to, and engage with SMEs through bootcamps and exercises that simulate partnership dynamics.
• Take the Next Step: Graduate with readiness to join the InnoJura Platform, connecting with SMEs for co-development and new growth opportunities.
Exclusive Benefits in Canton of Jura
Startups established in or willing to relocate to the Canton of Jura may receive additional benefits:
• Relocation and Set-up Support: Access financial assistance to establish or move your company to the Canton of Jura.
• Proof of Concept Development: Receive cash and/or in-kind contributions from an industry partner for PoC development and validation.
• NIC Status (New Innovative Company): Opportunity to apply for this exclusive status, which provides advantages such as tax exemptions.
• Individual 1:1 Coaching: Receive up to 18 months of personalized support from expert coaches.
• Free Workspace: Utilize office space at Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area – Jura within a dedicated innovation community.
• Local Mentorship: Gain support from a mentor within the Jura ecosystem to facilitate integration and development.
• Visibility at BE5.0: Showcase your proof of concept at a leading regional industrial trade fair.
Application Process
• Application: Eligible candidates can apply by completing the registration form on the Babele portal.
• Selection: An expert team reviews all applications. Selected projects are invited for an online follow-up interview, with approximately 50% advancing to the next stage.
• Pitch: Shortlisted candidates present their project in person to a committee of industry experts and SME representatives.
• Acceleration: Selected projects are invited to join the InnoJura Accelerator cohort and receive tailored support based on their needs and solution maturity.
Key Dates
• Application Deadline: 31.03.2026
• Short List Announcement: 15.04.2026
• Pitch Day & Selection: End of April 2026
• Cohort Announcement: 10.05.2025
• Onboarding & Kick-off: 15.05.2026
The InnoJura Program Pathway
The accelerator is part of a broader three-step program designed to bridge startups and SMEs in advanced manufacturing and medtech:
• InnoJura Accelerator: The starting point for early-stage ventures to prepare for SME partnerships through coaching, group sessions, and bootcamps.
• InnoJura Academy: A parallel program for industrial companies to learn how to harness external innovation and collaborate effectively with startups.
• InnoJura Platform: A collaborative space where startups and SMEs are matched to address real-world challenges and create lasting solutions and partnerships.
Frequently Asked Questions
• Program Purpose: The accelerator helps startups in advanced manufacturing fields build strategic partnerships with established SMEs in the Jura region.
• Relation to i4Challenge: It evolves from the i4Challenge and DayOne Tech programs, combining them into a single, stronger offering with a clearer entry point and more coherent support.
• Partnership Preparation: Startups learn to structure collaboration agreements, align technical goals, and manage joint projects through workshops, coaching, and bootcamps.
• Unique Approach: Unlike traditional accelerators, this program emphasizes partnership readiness, guiding startups to build tangible pilot projects and prototypes with SMEs.
• Post-Accelerator Opportunities: Graduates can advance to the InnoJura Platform, where they are paired with SMEs to co-create solutions and form revenue-generating partnerships.
• Funding Details: The program does not provide direct funding. Instead, it offers in-kind benefits, including access to partners, coaching, workshops, and networking. It also provides guidance on securing other public or private funding.
The InnoJura program serves as a vital conduit, connecting innovative startups with the real-world expertise of established SMEs. By fostering collaboration within the Jura's advanced manufacturing and medtech sectors, it aims to accelerate progress and cultivate the next wave of industrial innovation. Interested parties can find application details and timelines through official announcements from Basel Area Business & Innovation.