quantum ilab
The quantum innovation lab is a programme where participants work in teams on innovative ideas – from identifying real-world challenges to developing, testing and refining creative solutions using quantum technologies.
The course is organised by the University of Vienna together with leading research institutions and with the support of incubators and venture funds. This unique mix of stakeholders lays sound foundations to provide participants with tools and methods to identify, evaluate, and realise business ideas based on quantum technologies.
The course is fast-paced with an expected workload of approximately 40 hours in class, plus additional work to develop one’s projects between sessions. Participants will learn how to work effectively in teams and how to look at the different aspects of an entrepreneurial venture.
The quantum ilab is articulated in three parts:
- a bootcamp, where participants learn the basics of deep tech entrepreneurship and work in teams around early ideas;
- a series of weekly webinars, where participants deepen their understanding by working on their own ideas with the support of the technology transfer teams at their institutions;
- the demo day, where participants pitch their ideas to a jury of experts and get relevant feedback and suggestions about the next steps in their venture development.
Application deadline: 29 June 2025
Dates: Bootcamp: 25-28 Sept | Weekly webinars: 1 Oct – 5 Nov | Demo day: 14 Nov.
Location: Bootcamp: Bad Ischl | Webinars: online | Demo day: Vienna – Sky Lounge.
Language: English
During the quantum innovation lab, you will:
- understand the principles of deep tech innovation and its connection to entrepreneurship
- explore the business potential of (your) quantum technologies
- collaborate in teams with peers
- learn communication techniques to pitch your idea to non-scientists
The quantum ilab is free for students and researchers from participating institutions. If you are affiliated with another institution, participation may still be possible if your organization agrees to cover the programme fee of 1000 EUR.
Please note that, to avoid last-minute cancellations, selected participants will be asked to pay a deposit of 300€ to secure their place. The deposit will be fully reimbursed to those who will have participated in the entire programme.
Ready to apply?
Don’t miss your chance to apply to the quantum innovation lab – applications close on 29 June 2025.
To apply, please fill out this registration form.
schedule
25/09/2025
16:00 – 22:00
- Arrival
- Intro to the programme
- What does it mean to be an entrepreneur?
- Dinner
- Introduction of ideas
- Teamwork and Leadership
- Team formation
26/09/2025
9:00 – 20:00
- Presentation of Teams
- Intro to Deep Tech Innovation
- Value Proposition Canvas
- Lunch
- Idea Validation
- The transition from technology to commercialisation
- Dinner
- Video competition
27/09/2025
- 9:00 – 22:00
- Business plan
- Intellectual Property Strategies
- Lunch
- Hike
- Projects wrap-up
- Skill training
- Dinner
- Games night
28/09/2025
9:00 – 13:00
- Outlook on pitching and communication
- Pitch
- Q&A session
- Concluding remarks
- Lunch
- Departure
1/10/2025
16:00 – 18:00
Julia Wagner
08/10/2025
16:00 – 18:00
Max Konrad
15/10/2025
16:00 – 18:00
Matthias Kettemann
22/10/2025
16:00 – 18:00
Tobias Denzler & Markus Pietzka
29/10/2025
16:00 – 18:00
James Sanders
05/11/2025
16:00 – 18:00
Carlos Fernandez de Retana
14/11/2025
16:00 – 21:00
Sky-Lounge (Oskar-Morgenstern-Platz 1, Vienna)
our lecturers and mentors
FAQs
The programme is open to Master students, PhD candidates, postdocs and PIs involved in quantum science. Additionally, if you are not a quantum researcher but from a related field such as engineering or computer science and would like to work on an idea with a connection to quantum tech, you are welcome to apply. Researchers at any stage of idea development are encouraged to apply, including those who do not have a concrete business idea in mind but see commercial potential in their work.
Fully taught in English, the programme is designed to be accessible to all students from diverse academic backgrounds. Please note, that available spaces in the programme are limited and participants will be chosen based on the quality of the applications received.
Complete the online application form on this page by 29 June 2025. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an online interview. Upon acceptance, commit to full attendance by paying a deposit of 300€. The money will be refunded to you after successful completion of the programme.
No prior experience is required. The program is designed to provide foundational knowledge in entrepreneurship and deep tech innovation, while supporting participants throughout the process.
The course involves a 4-day bootcamp and six weekly webinars. Full attendance is mandatory. Additional time will be required for project development and deliverables.
Applicants from participating institutions (see list at the bottom of this page) are exempt from the registration fee. Accommodation and meals during the bootcamp are covered. Please note that no additional financial support is available.
No, at the moment it is not possible to receive ECTS.
contact
Have questions about the quantum innovation lab? Need more information about the program, application process, or schedule? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help! Simply write a message to entrepreneurship@univie.ac.at and we will get back to you as soon as possible.