Startup in Residence involves inviting innovative companies to come up with solutions to local government issues. The companies selected work with the authority on solutions as part of the programme. This gives local government and the business community the opportunity to find out how each other operates and to learn from each other.
Over the course of an eight-week programme, the issues are explored in greater detail and research is carried out. The selected participants will take part in various training sessions during this stage. This time will also be used for carrying out research, preparing a business case and drawing up a plan of action.
Following successful completion of the research phase, the testing phase begins. During this phase of the programme, we look to see whether the solution works. The participants build their prototype or start up a pilot scheme aimed at testing the solution.
The issues in question are put out to tender in line with European tendering rules. This gives the provincial authority the option of purchasing the innovations if it is enthusiastic about the solutions presented.
Entrepreneurs could sign up to participate in the Startup in Residence programme between 17 September and 12 November 2018.
The period between 7 January and 8 March was the research and development phase.
Following successful completion of the research phase, the testing phase begins. The precise duration can vary according to the different challenges.
