LUISS ENLABS FAQ

What type of projects do you fund?

We mainly target startups with innovative projects in the IT sector, which are:
- developed in a large market
- fast growing company

How long is the program? Where is it located?

The incubation program lasts 6 months. It takes place at the headquarters of LUISS ENLABS, onTermini station in Rome (Via Giovanni Giolitti 34)

Do I have to be physically present at LUISS ENLABS for the duration of the program?

LUISS ENLABS requires the uninterrupted stay of the team during the entire period of the program. Desks will be made available at headquarters in Rome, where the team will be able to develop their ideas.

What is the selection process?

Every year, there will be two calls for project submission, the dates will be communicated on the site.
The selection is made in three phases.

1. The team compiles the Application Form available on the site in English. LUISS ENLABS (investors and mentors) will study the proposals. The most innovative projects with good growth potential will be selected for a presentation.
2. The teams selected in step 1 will make a pitch in front of LUISS ENLABS advisors. In the end, the projects will be chosen according to the quality of the presentation and the following evaluation criteria:
   • potential of business ideas;
   • relevance of the business;
   • composition and background of the team;
   • progress of the project;
   • full-time engagement to the project.
3. Teams that have passed step 2, will be called to a meeting with two mentors for an in-depth investigation of the project.

At the end of this third step , projects will be finally selected for participation in the Incubation Program.
From the time the Application Form is received, the full duration of the selection process takes from one to two months.

 

Is there a deadline for sending projects?

There is a deadline for sending in the Application Form, for any given Incubation Program. The date is indicated on the Home Page of this site.

Do I need to provide a Business plan?

A Business Plan is not required for the selection phase.

Can I participate if I am not a Roman resident?

The participation of non-residents of Rome is possible, provided that the team is available to move to Rome for the incubation period (6 months).

Can a Team submit more than one project?

There are no constraints on the number of projects submitted. Generally, we recommend that teams submit a single well thought out project, in order to focus attention on it.

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Is the program aimed just at working groups or also at individual entrepreneurs?

The program is aimed, mainly but not strictly, at working groups consisting of 2 to 4 members.

Must one of the co-founders be a technician (programmer)?

It is not obligatory. But a complete team, consisting of a programmer, is a pleasing quality and added value in the selection of projects.

If I am a developer or designer looking for a great opportunity, can LUISS ENLABS help me to find a project?

You can file your candidature on the website, under the category "Get involved". Startups can directly contact you to present their project as needed.

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What is Investor Day?

An Investor Day event will be organized at the end of the incubation program, with the presence of national and international investors in order to help you finance the next stage in your company’s growth.

Do I have to stay in Rome after the program’s end?

Absolutely, as long as the team and the project has not taken off.

end faq