FAQ
CERN Venture Connect (CVC) is a programme designed to support deep-tech startups by providing streamlined access to CERN technologies, technical expertise, and a curated innovation ecosystem.
The programme’s primary goal is technology transfer: helping startups integrate CERN-developed technologies into their products to accelerate innovation and gain a competitive edge.
For startups founded by CERN alumni, the CVC also provides support, even without any technology transfer.
CVC is open to:
- External startups or scaleups that:
- Are based in a CERN Member State or Associated Member State
- Have a strong, committed team with an ambitious vision
- Are interested in leveraging CERN technologies
- Operate in non-military and non-defence-related industries
For these companies, CVC is a technology transfer programme.
- Startups or scaleups founded by a former CERN staff or fellow:
- May be eligible even without a direct technology transfer component
- Have a strong, committed team with an ambitious vision
- Operate in non-military and non-defence-related industries
CVC is best suited for startups that already have a defined product vision and are looking to strengthen it through advanced technologies. This typically includes early-stage to scaling startups, provided there is a clear use case for CERN technologies or strong alignment with the programme.
Yes. The CVC is open to startups founded by former CERN staff or fellows.
CERN alumni startups can join the programme even without a formal technology transfer component. CVC is designed to help you leverage your CERN experience and accelerate your venture, through:
- Access to the CERN deep-tech ecosystem and network
- Increased visibility and credibility through official association with CERN
- Connections to investors, partners, and talent
If you are currently at CERN and considering building a startup, you are also welcome to contact the CVC team directly (kt-entrepreneurship@cern.ch) to explore how we can support you.
CVC provides access to a curated portfolio of CERN technologies (link to Tech page: https://ventureconnect.cern/technologies/) that have been identified as sufficiently mature for startup use and commercialisation.
- These are preselected, high-TRL technologies, ready to be licensed and integrated into products
- Startups can benefit from fast access and reduced in-house R&D efforts thanks to this readiness
The technologies listed in our portfolio represent a non-exhaustive selection. They are only a subset of CERN’s broader capabilities. If you are interested in a specific CERN capability not listed, you are encouraged to apply.
Once you have identified a specific need or technology of interest, you can apply and describe your use case. The CVC team will assess feasibility and explore potential matches with CERN expertise.
Beyond the CVC technology portfolio, CERN’s key domains of expertise include:
- Accelerator & Beam Technologies, Magnets, Radio Frequency Technology
- Cryogenics, Vacuum & Thermal Systems
- Detectors & Radiation Technologies
- Electronics & Microelectronics
- Computing, Controls & Digital Systems, Industrial Controls & Simulations, Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
- Materials, Mechanics & Manufacturing
- Measurement & Testing, Metrology
- Advanced & Enabling Technologies, Superconductivity
You do not need to have a specific CERN technology identified before applying. If your startup has a clear technical need or challenge, the CVC team can help explore relevant CERN technologies and assess potential matches.
Startups joining CVC benefit from a unique combination of technology, credibility, and ecosystem access:
- Access to licensing cutting-edge CERN technologies and expert support, reducing internal R&D needs
- Official endorsement from CERN, including the possibility to use the CVC brand in your communication
- Increased visibility through the CERN and deep-tech ecosystem
- Connections to a global network of investors, corporates, incubators, and experts
- Access to funding opportunities
- Participation in exclusive community workshops and events
- Access to talent
For CERN alumni startups, the programme provides strong value through ecosystem access, visibility, and endorsement, even without a formal technology transfer component.
For a full overview of benefits, please visit “Why Partner with CERN” (https://ventureconnect.cern/why-partner-with-cern/).
CVC’s primary objective is technology transfer from CERN to startups, not procurement or commercial deployment of external products at CERN.
In some cases, collaboration opportunities may arise as part of a technology transfer project. However, if your main goal is to sell a product or service to CERN, you should contact CERN’s procurement service directly (https://procurement.web.cern.ch).
CVC operates with standard founder-friendly, success-based terms:
- 0% equity
- 2% royalty on revenues generated with CERN technology, only after exceeding CHF 1 million in annual sales
Startups can apply through the online application form (https://ventureconnect.cern/apply-now/application-form/) .
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
The process is designed to be fast and startup-friendly, typically including:
- Application submission
- Introductory discussion & CERN technology matching
- CERN technical expert consultation
- Feasibility assessment
- Contract signing
Selection focuses on:
- Technical fit (for external companies)
- Business potential and scalability
- Team strength
While timelines may vary depending on the project, the process from initial discussion to technology matching and agreement, is typically completed within a few weeks to a few months.
After joining, startups typically begin with technology integration and expert support, while also engaging with the CVC ecosystem through events, investor connections, and visibility opportunities.
No. CVC is an international programme, and startups can participate remotely. However, participation in selected events or meetings at CERN or within the ecosystem may be encouraged.
For further inquiries, you can reach contact the CVC team directly via the contact form (link) or kt-entrepreneurship@cern.ch.
The latest updates on CVC activities, events, and opportunities are shared through our LinkedIn channel or check our past recorded events on our Youtube channel.