Start for Future (SFF)

In partnership with Edinburgh Napier University and a consortium of universities across Europe, QMU has secured funding from the European Institute for Innovation and Technology (EIT) HEI Initiative Innovation Capacity Building for Higher Education for Start for Future (SFF) – a international network of entrepreneurial universities and incubators collaborating on the development of innovative and impactful startups and solutions.

In the alliance, talents and teams with innovative business ideas and a strong entrepreneurial mindset are given resources to further foster their business concepts and incubate them in startup ecosystems where they can thrive and find appropriate partners for co-creation and growth. The SFF innovation process is inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals because it is impact-driven and fosters responsible entrepreneurship. Based on challenges defined by these goals, teams and talents develop solutions that have an impact on society as a whole. The priority sectors are:

Health
Manufacturing
Circular Economy
Urban Mobility
Food

SFF supports early-stage start-ups and entrepreneurial spirited individuals looking to join a start-up in its early days. It provides members with expert coaching and start-up development. Eventually, you will have the chance to join one of our top European partner incubators.

A cross QMU institutional initiative, led by Dr Duncan Pentland, Interim Deputy Head of Division Occupational Therapy and Arts Therapies supported by Dr Kavi Jagadamma, Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy and Denny Collie, Lecturer, Media, Communication and Performing Arts and the Research and Knowledge Exchange Development Unit (RKEDU) is driving implementation across QMU. The first phase of the project will run from 1 May 2023 for 18 months.

We encourage all students, staff, alumni and external SMEs and entrepreneurs to set up a profile on the QMU Start for Future Platform.

Further information from rkedu@qmu.ac.uk or visit the following SharePoint site: QMU Display Slide.pptx

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