So what is the grant about?
However promising your idea may be, starting up a company is always tough. The Life Sciences Pre-Seed Grant offers a great opportunity for applied researchers associated with a Dutch university or research institution. Worth up to € 250,000, it offers superb prospects for those looking to exploit their fundamental research commercially by starting up a new business. 

How will it help me?
Apart from the obvious cash injection, being awarded a Pre-Seed Grant sets the scene for creating a commercial platform for exploiting your research. The grant may be used to validate your research, perform (further) clinical or pre-clinical research, or to fund practical issues concerning starting up a company, such as acquiring knowledge on legal or IP aspects, or for technology transfer. The final objective is to ensure there is an effective and powerful business plan in place, making the new company viable, profitable and attractive to possible investors.

What next?
Go to the website. There you will find all the information you need for checking your eligibility for the grant and for submitting an application. Don’t hesitate though, because the sixth round closes on 5 October 2010.