An intensive incubation programme guiding startups from prototype to production – turning early-stage solutions into validated, manufacturable products.
The Prototype to Industry Programme supports hardware, industrial and deep-tech startups from Austria and Slovakia in accelerating their journey from prototype to production. Through five thematic sprint workshops, industry connection days, expert mentoring and access to prototyping infrastructure, participants gain the knowledge, networks and practical support needed to prepare their innovations for manufacturing and market entry.
Applications are now open.
Application deadline: 17 August 2026
The Programme
What is the Prototype to Industry Programme?
An intensive incubation programme guiding hardware startups from prototype to production — developed within the Twin City Future Innovation Manufacturing Hub (2C FIMH).
Designed for hardware, industrial and deep-tech innovators, the programme helps teams bridge the gap between prototype development and manufacturing readiness.
Selected participants benefit from:
- Five thematic sprint workshops
- Five industry connection days in Austria and Slovakia
- Technical and business mentoring
- 24/7 access to the accent Makerspace in Tulln
- Peer exchange and ecosystem networking
- Visibility opportunities at Manufacturing Day Vienna 2027
The programme combines practical learning, industry exposure and expert support to help innovators validate solutions, reduce development risks and prepare for scalable production.
Who Should Apply?
We are looking for:
- Hardware startups
- Industrial technology ventures
- Deep-tech startups
- University spin-offs
- Innovation teams
- Early-stage ventures with technologies between TRL 3–6
Applicants should already have a prototype or functional mock-up and be seeking support in:
- Product validation
- Prototyping and testing
- Manufacturability
- Industrial collaboration
- Commercialisation
Key Dates
- Call opens: 29 June 2026
- Information Session: 29 July 2026
- Application deadline: 17 August 2026
- Programme start: October 2026
Apply Now
Please review the detailed Call for Applications and the Evaluation & Selection Framework before submitting your application.
Application deadline: 17 August 2026 (11:59 CEST)
If you experience technical issues with the application form, please contact the contact person.
Download documents:
Prototype to Industry_Call for applications_v.1.0_final
Prototype to Industry_Evaluation Criteria and Selection Framework_v. 1.0_final
Prototype to Industry Programme_for participants_FULL_final_26.6
Curious about the previous round of the program? Here are some insights and highlights from the program’s first pilot phase (formerly Twin City Sprint & Roadshow Series).
Get Connected Now
More information: Reka Dancsecs reka.dancsecs@accent.at I Ľudmila Dragulová ludmila.dragulova@stuba.sk
A cross-border innovation bridge
The pilot program is part of the Twin City Future Innovation Manufacturing Hub and is jointly developed and implemented by accent Incubator (Austria), EIT Manufacturing (Austria), InQb – STU (Slovakia) and SAPIE (Slovakia).
The aim is to strengthen cross-border cooperation between Austria and Slovakia and bring start-ups and manufacturers together to accelerate innovation in hardware and advanced manufacturing.
