New strategic partnership to give more startups in Aarhus a stronger starting point

INCUBA has entered into a new partnership with the Inger and Poul Eriksen Foundation, aimed at helping more promising startups get off to a strong start in Aarhus. Through financial support from the foundation, selected companies in the INCUBA Next Level Founder Hub will receive an extra boost at a critical stage of their development.

The collaboration is based on a shared ambition to strengthen local entrepreneurship and ensure that the most promising companies have the best possible conditions to succeed.

“We know how crucial the early stages are for a startup. With this partnership, we can provide even more companies with a solid foundation to build on – both financially and through access to investors, expertise, and a strong community,” says Jacob Doktor Mogensen, CEO of INCUBA.

Funding targeted at the most promising founders

On August 10, INCUBA will welcome a new cohort of startups into the Founder Hub at INCUBA Next Level, Aarhus’ meeting point for investors and growth-stage companies.

Here, capital, expertise, and community are brought together under one roof in a structured program where startups work closely on scaling, fundraising, and building the right investor relationships.

The companies selected for the program go through a thorough application and screening process, where they are assessed on their product, market, business model, team, and ambitions. The application deadline is June 1.

An experienced panel of profiles from both the investor and startup ecosystem is responsible for the evaluation.

INCUBA expects to admit around 10 startups, which will receive an equal share of the foundation’s funding.

Stronger selection and better opportunities

For the Inger and Poul Eriksen Foundation, the partnership with INCUBA is a way to ensure that the funding creates the greatest possible impact.

“We want to support people who have the courage to start something of their own. At the same time, it is crucial that we identify the right candidates,” says Poul Eriksen.

“INCUBA plays a key role as a strong player in the Aarhus startup ecosystem. With their experience, we ensure a professional and thorough assessment of applicants, that the funding reaches the most promising companies, and that we contribute to strengthening the local business community. We look forward to joining forces and helping even more talents get off to a strong start on their entrepreneurial journey,” he adds.

Lars Louring, INCUBA, Inger & Poul Eriksen, Jacob Doktor Mogensen, INCUBA

An environment that brings together capital, expertise, and community

Founder Hub is part of INCUBA Next Level, where investors and startups work closely together in their day-to-day activities. This creates better access to capital, sparring, and the relationships that can be crucial for taking the next step.

Companies in Founder Hub gain access to, among other things:

  • Access to investors and advisors
  • Sparring from experienced founders
  • Participation in targeted programs and events
  • A community where collaboration and knowledge sharing are part of everyday life

At the same time, INCUBA invests in the development of the companies through a strongly subsidized program.

“This is not just about capital. It’s about creating the right environment around companies so they can grow faster and stronger. When we combine the foundation’s support with our environment and program, we can help even more startups reach the next level,” says Jacob Doktor Mogensen.

Tour of the INCUBA Next Level Founder Hub
  • Based in Aarhus
  • Dedicated to supporting individuals who wish to start their own business
  • As selecting the right candidates is a complex and demanding process, the foundation has chosen to draw on INCUBA’s expertise
  • In collaboration with INCUBA, the Inger and Poul Eriksen Foundation ensures:
    • A professional and thorough assessment of applicants
    • That the foundation’s funds are allocated to the candidates best suited to create future success
    • Strengthening of the local business community through targeted support for new entrepreneurs