Over the past two years, the Ready2Scale project has supported 25 deep-tech startups in their efforts to scale internationally, while also strengthening the surrounding innovation and investment ecosystem. Funded by the European Union, the project combined targeted startup acceleration with ecosystem-building activities aimed at investors, mentors, and support organisations across Europe.
The primary objective of Ready2Scale was to enable deep-tech startups to grow beyond their national markets. Across two open calls, the programme attracted nearly 500 applications from across Europe, from which 25 startups were selected to participate in a six-month acceleration programme delivered in two batches. During the programme, startups engaged in peer learning, mentoring, and matchmaking activities, and built connections with potential investors and international partners. More than 100 mentors contributed expertise through structured mentoring sessions, workshops, and events, ensuring a strong focus on practical, investor-oriented outcomes.
A core component of the programme was the Investment Readiness Programme (IRP), designed to strengthen startups’ preparedness for scaling and investment. Through a combination of one-to-one mentoring and group training, participants refined their value propositions, business strategies, and investor communication. In addition, each startup had access to financial support of up to EUR 60,000, which enabled them to address critical legal, operational, and organisational needs. This support was particularly relevant for deep-tech ventures, which typically require longer development cycles and higher upfront investment than conventional startups.
The programme also included Market Discovery Missions, offering startups direct exposure to target markets. These missions combined meetings with local experts and partners with participation in major international conferences, providing valuable opportunities for visibility, networking, and partnership building. While many activities were delivered online, in-person engagement proved especially effective in establishing trust-based business relationships.
Beyond direct startup support, Ready2Scale placed strong emphasis on ecosystem development. Graduates of the programme were invited to join the Future Founders Club, a community initiative designed to foster continued collaboration among entrepreneurs, mentors, and ecosystem stakeholders. These activities supported knowledge exchange, peer learning, and long-term engagement within national and international innovation ecosystems.
Investor engagement was another key pillar of the project. Ready2Scale organised a series of dedicated webinars aimed at educating and engaging European investors interested in digital and deep-tech ventures. These sessions addressed the specific challenges of investing in deep-tech and shared best practices from experienced early-stage investors, contributing to increased investor awareness and confidence in the sector.
As the Ready2Scale project concludes, its results demonstrate both immediate and lasting impact. The programme has supported startups in advancing their internationalisation, investment readiness, and organisational maturity, while also strengthening connections across Europe’s deep-tech ecosystem. Through its integrated approach to startup support, investor engagement, and community building, Ready2Scale has contributed to a more connected, capable, and resilient deep-tech innovation landscape.
