FAQ
Here you’ll find answers to the questions we receive most often. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us via the form or email us at inkubatoruniba.sk ,we’ll be happy to reply and advise you.
1. Can I apply even if I am at a very early stage?
Yes. The Validate program is specifically designed for ideas and projects at a very early stage. You do not need to have a finished product or a registered company. What matters is that you are willing to work on your idea and move it forward in practice.
2. Do I need to have a finished product or results before applying?
No. To join the Validate program, you only need an idea and the motivation to develop it. It is important to briefly explain what problem you are solving, who your solution is for, and what you want to validate during the program.
3. Can I apply as an individual without a team?
Yes. You can apply as an individual. If it turns out that expanding your team would be beneficial, we can help connect you with people interested in similar projects, depending on availability.
4. Is the incubator only for technological projects?
No. It does not matter whether your project is “technological.” What matters is that it has meaning and practical potential. The only requirement is that the project is innovative whether in terms of product innovation, service innovation, or process innovation.
5. Is participation paid?
No. Participation in both programs is free of charge. However, capacity is limited so that we can provide participants with full attention and support.
6. When can I apply?
Applications are typically opened twice a year in spring and in autumn. You can always find current dates and conditions on the Programs page.
7. How are projects selected?
We select projects in a way that allows us to realistically support each team. We primarily assess the clarity of the project, the team’s motivation, and its growth potential.
8. What is the difference between the Validate program and the Build & Grow program?
The Validate program helps you clarify and test your idea in practice.
The Build & Grow program is a one-year program for teams that have demonstrated progress and want to further develop their project into a real business, with more regular support, consultations, and connections to practice.
9. How much time does participation in the programs require?
The time commitment depends on how much space you want to give your project and how quickly you want to move forward. We provide clear steps and feedback, but the pace is largely up to you.
In the Validate program, we recommend setting aside approximately 2 to 5 hours per week. This includes a joint meeting (usually 60–90 minutes) and time for weekly tasks (e.g., interviews, simple testing, preparation of short outputs). It is manageable alongside studies if you work on it regularly.
In the Build & Grow program, the project is already in active development, so the time commitment is individual. Most teams dedicate approximately 3 to 8 hours per week, sometimes more. From our side, there is usually one meeting per month, and between meetings you work on agreed steps.
In short: the more time you dedicate to your project, the faster you will see results, but even small, consistent steps can make a big difference.
10. What exactly does “mentoring” mean in your programs?
Within our programs, we can connect you with mentors and experts from both the university and practice. For us, mentoring means practical consultations and feedback on what you are currently working on, helping you move forward and avoid getting stuck. Connections to specific mentors always depend on your needs, your project’s needs, and mentor availability.
11. What if it turns out that my idea does not work?
That is also a good outcome. Especially in the Validate program, the goal is to find out as early as possible what makes sense and what does not, so you do not waste time and energy. If a change of direction is needed, we will help you adjust it in a structured way with clear next steps.
12. What if I cannot keep up?
We understand that there may be demanding periods alongside studies or work. However, the programs are designed for teams that work on their projects regularly and move forward. If you are unable to consistently meet agreed milestones or attend meetings and do not communicate with us, we will agree on ending the support so that space remains for active teams.
13. What if my idea is sensitive and I am afraid to share it?
We understand. At the beginning, we only work with information that is safe to share. For projects where protection of results is important, we recommend appropriate steps and, if needed, direct you to experts who specialize in intellectual property protection and legal matters.
14. Can I participate if I am outside Bratislava or on an exchange program?
Yes, the program can also be completed online. While in-person participation may be beneficial for some activities, we always try to adjust the format so that remote participation is possible.