Entrepreneurship in life sciences
BIO-490
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Summary
Based on real-world examples, hypothetical or own inventions, students are provided with a skill set for translating
scientific innovation into a convincing investor pitch (including a comprehensive slide deck on all relevant aspects) and
Content
The course provides background information to prepare a roadmap for the establishment of a startup company, from the
initial scientific innovation and market analysis, to regulatory and IP issues, and finally funding and investment
opportunities.
The course is also supported by guest speakers introducing specific EPFL funding opportunities (e.g. Catalyze4Life) and
startup support (Launchpad initiative).
Examples and concepts are introduced by the teachers and discussed in an interactive way. This provides the basis for
(ii) Independent follow-up work by the students in groups and individually
Students prepare a case study of an existing startup (indivudal task) and a group pitch, based on their own example
(iii) Example pitches by the teaching assistants
During one lecture the teaching assistants give example pitches with particular strengths and weaknesses, which are
Maximum number of course participants is limited to 25 to enable a truly interactive format.
Expected student activities
Preparation of an individual case study (3min with slides)
Preparation of a written funding application including data base searches (papers, patents and business figures)
Preparation of a group pitch (10 min with slides)
Assessment methods
Evaluation of the written funding application (25%)
Evaluation of the group pitch (35%)
Evaluation of the individual case study (35%)
Evaluation of participation in the discussions related to pitches of other students (5%)
Based on real-world examples, hypothetical or own inventions, students are provided with a skill set for translating
scientific innovation into a convincing investor pitch (including a comprehensive slide deck on all relevant aspects) and
applications for funding of a startup project
Content
The course provides background information to prepare a roadmap for the establishment of a startup company, from the
initial scientific innovation and market analysis, to regulatory and IP issues, and finally funding and investment
opportunities.
The course is also supported by guest speakers introducing specific EPFL funding opportunities (e.g. Catalyze4Life) and
startup support (Launchpad initiative).
Teaching Methods
(i) Detailed discussion of real world examplesExamples and concepts are introduced by the teachers and discussed in an interactive way. This provides the basis for
preparing an individual case study and group tasks such as funding applications and investor pitches.
Students prepare a case study of an existing startup (indivudal task) and a group pitch, based on their own example
innovations (hypothetical or real). Supervision and support are provided by the teaching assistants.
During one lecture the teaching assistants give example pitches with particular strengths and weaknesses, which are
subsequently discussed and evaluated.
Preparation of an individual case study (3min with slides)
Preparation of a written funding application including data base searches (papers, patents and business figures)
Preparation of a group pitch (10 min with slides)
The best group will be awarded with a trophy!
Evaluation of the written funding application (25%)
Evaluation of the group pitch (35%)
Evaluation of the individual case study (35%)
Evaluation of participation in the discussions related to pitches of other students (5%)