Venture Craft

Application Details & Criteria

Review the eligibility criteria and competition rules before you begin your journey.

Eligibility Criteria

  • 01

    Theme

    This year's challenge focuses on Sustainable Energy.

    We are looking for deep tech solutions that power the future responsibly.

    Aligns with the global mission for sustainability.

  • 02

    Age

    All team members must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application submission.

    Ensures legal eligibility for participation.

  • 03

    Education

    The team leader and main co-founders must be actively pursuing or have completed an undergraduate (Bachelor's) degree or a STEM Diploma.

    While not mandatory, this is highly recommended for all other team members.

    Ensures the competition targets high-potential early-stage talent.

  • 04

    Startup Stage

    The startup must be no older than 5 years from its date of establishment.

    The competition is targeted at early-stage startups, specifically:

    Startups at later stages may be deemed ineligible.

    • Ideation
    • Pre-Seed
    • Seed

    Keeps the competition aligned with emerging ventures and early-stage innovation.

  • 05

    Basis

    The startup must be science- or technology-based.

    The proposed solution must align with at least one of the competition’s four pillars:

    • Decarbonization Technologies
    • Circular Economy & Resource Efficiency
    • Energy Efficiency
    • Process Optimization & Advanced Engineering

    Ensures ventures are rooted in research, innovation, or applied science.

  • 06

    Complete Submission

    Teams must submit all required application materials via the online application form before the stated deadline.

    Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

    Guarantees fairness and preparedness.

  • 07

    Team Composition

    There is no minimum or maximum limit on the number of team members.

    You may apply as a solo founder or as a team of any size.

    All team members are welcome to travel and physically participate in the bootcamp and final competition; however, please note that Venture Craft will sponsor travel, visa coordination, and accommodation for a maximum of 2 members per team, and any additional members must be self-funded.

    Encourages both individual innovators and large collaborative teams.

Targeted Audience

  • STEM Students & Recent Graduates (0-5 years) - Bachelor's / Diploma

    Individuals currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or STEM Diploma program, or those who have graduated in a STEM field within the last 5 years.

    Target Profile
    Bachelor's and Diploma level innovators developing deep tech solutions during their academic journey or early professional career.
    Required Evidence
    Official Enrollment Certificate, Student ID, Graduation Certificate, or Official Transcript (Bachelor's or Diploma Level).

  • Postdocs & Researchers

    Individuals or research assistants who have developed tangible results, prototypes, or new methods.

    Target Profile
    Highly capable of leading technical ventures with proper commercialization support.
    Required Evidence
    Affiliation Letter, Research Contract, or Official Academic Appointment.

  • Early-Career R&D

    Researchers working in labs, startups, or R&D departments with a strong technical background.

    Target Profile
    Possess deep technical expertise and ≤5 years of professional experience.
    Required Evidence
    Employment Certificate, R&D Lab Letter, or Professional Reference.

  • Academic Spinouts

    Graduate students or researchers with lab-validated prototypes but no formal company established yet.

    Target Profile
    Ready to transition research outcomes into commercial deep tech startups.
    Required Evidence
    University Spinout Letter, Lab Validation Report, or Tech-Disclosure Form.

Important Details

  • IP / Ownership

    Teams must hold or legally control any intellectual property related to their submission.

    Protects originality and prevents disputes.

  • One-Entry Rule

    Each participant may join only one team.

    Prevents duplication and ensures fair participation.

  • Member Eligibility

    Only the team leader and main co-founders are required to meet the specific eligibility criteria. Other team members (professors, experts, or mentors) are welcome to support without meeting these requirements.

    Encourages diverse team structures and expert involvement.

  • Code of Conduct

    All team members must accept the official competition rules and code of conduct.

    Maintains professionalism and integrity.