As a result of years of systematic growth and a supportive environment, Slovenia has made achievements in strengthening its startup environment. With its advantageous geographical location, thriving economy, and supportive public sector, the country provides an ideal environment for entrepreneurs and startups to grow. Combined with the increasing number of startup support programs such as incubators and accelerators, Slovenia provides a climate conducive for startups. This article contains a comprehensive list of Slovenia's startup incubators and accelerators. They have been subdivided into applicability for startups in their 'ideation' or 'launch' stages, so you can find a program that is suitable for you!
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FULL LIST OF STARTUP INCUBATORS AND ACCELERATORS IN SLOVENIA
Ideation Stage Startup Incubators in Slovenia
Full list of ideation-stage startup incubators in Slovenia:
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
The Ljubljana University Incubator (LUI) is a major institution that offers full support to businesses and prospective entrepreneurs. Founded by the University of Ljubljana, LUI provides a supportive environment for individuals and teams to develop their business ideas. With an emphasis on encouraging entrepreneurship among students and employees, they actively support knowledge and technology transfer from academia to the economy.
The incubator provides a variety of services and assistance, such as office space, infrastructure, counseling, and workshops. LUI's programs help entrepreneurs from the conception of an idea through the acquisition of their first clients and the achievement of product-market fit. They provide organized training, coaching, and mentoring, as well as access to prominent entrepreneur mentors.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
Inkubator Sežana is a prominent institution in Slovenia that fosters and supports the growth of startups, new talents, and entrepreneurs. Located in the municipality of Sežana, the incubator fosters innovation by providing a complete support system that includes workshops, networking events, and access to key resources.
Through their programs, the incubator provides essential advice on numerous on various aspects of entrepreneurship, such as business strategy, market analysis, and product development. The incubator also provides mentorship and consulting services to help startups develop successful business models and enter new markets, allowing them to achieve long-term growth and success in their businesses.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
SAŠA Incubator is a well-known business incubator located in the Šalek Valley, a bustling and dynamic region famed for its industrial background and entrepreneurial drive. SAŠA Incubator fosters early-stage enterprises by providing a variety of services and activities to help them develop and succeed.
Startups at SAŠA Incubator benefit from a comprehensive support system that includes mentorship, networking opportunities, financing, and cutting-edge facilities. The incubator's team of seasoned professionals and industry experts is devoted to guiding entrepreneurs through the hurdles of developing a successful business.The incubator also hosts various events, workshops, and training programs to facilitate knowledge sharing and skill development.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
The EIT Digital Venture Program is a highly sought-after opportunity for entrepreneurial teams in the digital technology field. The initiative, which began in 2017, intends to assist early-stage firms from 22 European nations, including Slovenia, on their path to market. The program is run by EIT Digital, a leading European digital innovation and entrepreneurial education organization.
Through the 8-week program, participants who partake in the EIT Digital Venture Program have exclusive access to new markets and opportunities, allowing them to fulfill their entrepreneurial aspirations. Teams will participate in coaching and receive financial support of up to EUR 25,000 as well as the resources needed to complete their Minimum Viable Product (MVP), establish their own company, and secure early funding.
Launch Stage Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Slovenia
Full list of launch stage startup incubators and accelerators in Slovenia:
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Energy, Tourism, Blockchain Technologies, Inventions and Innovation, eCommerce, Telecommunication, Insurance, Banking, Web Apps, Platforms, World Solutions
ABC Accelerator, located in the capital city of Ljubljana, provides a dynamic atmosphere that stimulates innovation and growth. With a strong emphasis on technology and entrepreneurship, the accelerator connects startups with a diverse network of mentors, investors, and industry professionals that can help them through their growth journey. ABC Accelerator also provides customized programs, workshops, and networking opportunities for businesses to fine-tune their business models, develop their strategy, and make vital contacts within the startup ecosystem.
The accelerator's success is bolstered by strategic collaborations with major businesses, which provide opportunities for cooperation, investment, and market access to entrepreneurs. In addition, the accelerator provides international programs that link businesses with worldwide markets and investors.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Multiple Sectors
With the objective of nurturing and supporting early-stage enterprises, Venture Factory provides a supportive climate for entrepreneurs to develop their ideas into profitable companies. Mentorship, financing, networking opportunities, and access to a lively community of like-minded individuals are all available through the organization.
Venture Factory provides specialized assistance and coaching to entrepreneurs throughout their journey, assisting them in navigating the hurdles of growing their firms. The incubation program aims to provide entrepreneurs with the skills and expertise they need to develop their products or services, improve their business models, and attract funding. Meanwhile, their accelerator program provides a structured framework for growing firms, with an emphasis on market development, strategic collaborations, and long-term growth.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Music
The Hub for the Exchange of Music Innovation (HEMI) is a European collaborative initiative that serves as a central hub for the music industry and a platform that provides artists and music professionals with various assistance and resources. HEMI was founded by a consortium of ten partners from nine countries in Central and South Europe with the goal of fostering innovation in the music business.
The HEMI Music Innovation Incubator is a significant component of HEMI. The incubator acts as a platform for linking artists and musicians with educational and vocational training in areas such as ICT and business development. Participants in the incubator have access to a wide range of materials and chances to enhance their talents and grow their networks in the music business.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
Kovačnica is a bustling coworking space and business incubator situated in Kranj, Slovenia. This unique venue was created in 2015 by a group of individuals with the help of the municipality and the Regional Development Agency, with the major goal to assist entrepreneurs and startups in the Gorenjska region by providing a suitable atmosphere for them to work, develop, and build their enterprises.
Aside from coworking spaces, Kovačnica also serves as a specialized incubator, where ambitious companies can receive expert advice from specialists. Kovačnica also offers a variety of services, including training, mentorship, and access to essential equipment.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Multiple Sectors
Startup Slovenia is an initiative that serves as an independent open platform of the Slovene startup ecosystem aimed at recognizing and promoting innovative startup companies in Slovenia. Launched in 2004, it has played a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship and contributing to the development of the national startup ecosystem.
Startup Slovenia offers a variety of support services and tools to assist entrepreneurs and startups in succeeding, including mentoring programs, incubators, and accelerator programs. They also organize various promotional events, roadshows, media campaigns, and a centralized application system. By providing a platform for startups to showcase their ideas and connect with potential investors and partners, the project acts as a catalyst for collaboration and growth.
Closing Thoughts on Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Slovenia
Slovenia has made great strides in developing its entrepreneurial environment. The government has put in place an Action Plan to help businesses and remove barriers to entrepreneurship. With continued support through public and private initiatives, Slovenia will be able to fully fulfill its potential as a country capable of rapid innovation and as a vibrant startup hub in the area.