Question 1

Who can apply?

Accepted Answer

Students from any Swiss university or Higher Education Institution can apply!

We are looking for people who have been exploring ideas and gaining an in-depth understanding of either a technology space, problem space, or both and are now ready to get serious about building their startups.

You are welcome to apply as an individual or as a pre-formed team.

Question 2

Where will the program take place?

Accepted Answer

The program will take place on different locations between Zürich, Lausanne and Bern.

Question 3

What prerequisites do I need for the program?

Accepted Answer

To be eligible you must be enrolled as a university student with 2-4 semesters left at the start of the program.

We look for students who have demonstrated their entrepreneurial drive by exploring their areas of interest, created opportunities for themselves, tried out ideas, or otherwise have identified an area of interest or novel technology that they are passionate about.

Whilst it is not a prerequisite to have a fixed idea or solution yet, an understanding of a problem/technology space is important to show us you are proactive and have what it takes to be an entrepreneur!

Question 4

In which language will the program take place?

Accepted Answer

The program will be held in English to encourage cross-university and international connections.

Question 5

Do I need an idea and a team to apply?

Accepted Answer

At Talent Kick, we do not focus on any idea you might have, but we do expect that you have explored in-depth a problem space or have a deep understanding of a novel technology and its potential applications.

We guide you through all stages of the process of laying a stable foundation for an entrepreneurial career no matter your starting point. However, the more you have already explored, the better your chances in the selection process.

What is absolutely mandatory is a burning desire to bring innovative solutions to the world and a commitment to the entrepreneurial journey!

You are welcome to apply as an individual or with a pre-formed team.

Question 6

Can I apply if I already have an idea or if I already have a team?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can come into the program with an idea and/or a pre-formed team. You will go through all stages together with the other batch members to again deep dive and stabilise your team and idea.

We are looking for bright minds who are open to the process and ready to grow further.

You should bring an openness to accept more team members if sensible and pivot your idea if necessary.

Question 7

Can I participate in the program while I am in my studies?

Accepted Answer

Yes! This is exactly what the program is designed for. We want to help you find synergies with your studies and enable you to successfully explore the entrepreneurial career path while pursuing your degree.

At graduation, best participants have laid a stable foundation and can confidently decide for the entrepreneurial career path.

Question 8

Does Talent Kick take shares from me when I found a startup?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not take any shares from you.

The program worth around 20'000 CHF is completely free for you.

We are funded by Swiss foundations interested in the development of the Swiss ecosystem and the education of the next generation of entrepreneurial minds and leaders.

Question 9

Can I go on exchange during the program?

Accepted Answer

After the first semester, you can combine a semester abroad with Talent Kick. With Swissnex as our strong global partner, you can also receive support abroad!

Find your co-founders.

Build your startup.

Shape your future.

The application portal is now open!

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Not sure if Talent Kick is for you?

Upcoming Sessions: 26 October & 16 November – 12:00-13:00

What is Talent Kick?

The Talent Kick program not only helped us connect with the right people but was also the best possible support and preparation we could have gotten. We are really grateful for this!

Our Impact

50M+

Money Raised by The Talent Kick Teams

121

Teams Formed during the Talent Kick Program

19

Swiss Universities Represented in Talent Kick Applications

390K

CHF Funding Awarded to the Talent Kick Teams

2

Locations in

Switzerland

Reach Out to Our Scout Network

in your nearest region

Have questions about Talent Kick?

Talent Kick Supports You With:

Hands-on Validation

Network & Ecosystem

Passionate & like-minded talents

Synergies with Studies

Self-Development & Mentorship

Full Free Premium Support

Why You Should Apply:

Who can apply?

We are looking for the best entrepreneurial talents in Switzerland...

Strong desire to make an impact

Master & PhD Student in Switzerland/CH

Team player with leadership ability

Excellent academic track record

Entrepreneurial mindset with a deep understanding of a problem space or novel technology.

FAQs

You are never the only one with questions! You might even find your question among the most frequently asked questions below:

Who can apply?

Where will the program take place?

What prerequisites do I need for the program?

In which language will the program take place?

Do I need an idea and a team to apply?

Can I apply if I already have an idea or if I already have a team?

Can I participate in the program while I am in my studies?

Does Talent Kick take shares from me when I found a startup?

Can I go on exchange during the program?

Still have unanswered questions?

The Talent Kick program not only helped us connect with the right people but was also the best possible support and preparation we could have gotten.
We are really grateful for this!

Money Raised by The
Talent Kick Teams

Swiss Universities Represented
in Talent Kick Applications

CHF Funding Awarded
to the Talent Kick Teams

You are never the only one with questions!
You might even find your question among the most frequently asked questions below: