A fee-free 2-week immersive business program for Spanish sustainable startups willing to scale their business model internationally and discover the Swiss ecosystem.
Join the community
Desafía Switzerland is committed to empowering Spanish sustainability startups to thrive in Switzerland, the most innovative country globally.
This two-week program in Lausanne and Zurich offers workshops, investor pitch sessions, company visits, and networking events.
We seek pioneering deep-tech startups in Biotech, ICT - including AI, Machine Learning, IoT, Cybersecurity -, Advanced Engineering and Robotics, or any other sectors with a clear sustainable impact.
Participation is free. Startups are responsible for their travel and accommodation expenses.
Connect with top-tier professionals, investors, and fellow innovators in the sustainability sector
Present your groundbreaking ideas on an international stage and attract global attention
Explore Switzerland's advanced infrastructure and resources driving sustainable development
Engage potential collaborations to propel your startup to new heights
Learn the key elements to success on the Swiss market, and its challenges and opportunities
*A detailled agenda of the 2-week immersion will be communicated at the Kick-off Meeting.
Co-Founder & Managing Partner Venturelab
Program Manager Venturelab
Entrepreneurial Project & Event Manager Venturelab
Program Manager Venturelab
Senior Program Manager Venturelab
Head of Desafía Programs - ICEX España
Registration can be made until 23:59h on March 9, 2025.
Fee-free participation.
Places in this activity are limited (maximum 10 participants).
Startups will have to cover their own travel, accommodation and living expenses in Switzerland.
To be selected by the jury of experts, the below conditions needs to be fullfilled:
Desafía Switzerland is a public initiative sponsored by ICEX and Red.es that helps Spanish technology companies scale faster and globally.
ICEX Spain Trade and Investment is a public export promotion agency under the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Business. Its mission is to promote the internationalization of Spanish companies to enhance their competitiveness and add value to the Spanish economy while encouraging foreign investment in Spain. In collaboration with the Trade Commissions of Spain, ICEX provides a dedicated platform for companies and professionals interested in doing business with Spain, offering comprehensive access to all necessary information.
Red.es is the public corporate entity attached to the Ministry of Digital Transformation and The Civil Service. Red.es develops programs to boost the digital economy, innovation, entrepreneurship, training for young people and professionals and support for SMEs through the promotion of efficient and intensive use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
Venturelab has a 20-year track record of developing impactful startup programs and building relationships with institutions, investors, industry experts, academics, and innovators. Having worked with over 90% of Swiss-based startups, Venturelab has established a stellar reputation within its Swiss and international network spanning Europe, the U.S., Africa, and Asia. Its network of partners includes well-known corporates, leading academic institutions, and globally renowned investors.