Activator,
for next generation Bioentrepreneurs

Activator program

Our flagship program begins with a “mutual-matching” team formation phase, followed by workshops and mentor office hours, culminating in a final pitch showcase before world-renowned judges.

Applications are open! The deadline for US chapters is October 20th.

APPLY FOR ACTIVATOR

Program benefits

Our program provides a proven and unparalleled competitive advantage to begin the lab-to-market journey.

Expert mentorship

Direct weekly support from successful biotech founders, operators, and investors through office hours and workshops.

Direct feedback

Priceless one-on-one feedback from top-tier life sciences experts across the biotech ecosystem.

Build your network

Form powerful relationships with an exceptional cohort of executives, investors, scientists, and peers through exclusive Nucleate events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the Activator Programs located?

Activator takes place in-person in several regions globally. If there is not a Nucleate Chapter in your region, we also offer a Global Virtual Activator. (Australia, Bay Area, Boston, Canada, Chicago, Denmark, Germany, Global Virtual, Israel, Los Angeles, Michigan, New Haven, New York, San Diego, Seattle, Switzerland, Texas, United Kingdom)

What type of projects are available?

Projects in life sciences that have not received significant equity funding, but with preliminary POC data. Projects have received consent to participate from tech transfer offices, we welcome you whether you have licensed IP or not. Less than one year to the next inflection point that require substantial investment (translational academic or private).

What are the expectations on time commitment?

It is project dependent, but can range from 5-10 hours/week including by weekly workshops.

Do you take equity/ what does Nucleate get in return?

The program is free and we do not take equity. Our passion is meeting and building a community of student bioentrepreneurs. We get to help you and that is what we love to do.

What are the expectations on founder roles & equity?

No implicit legal partnership formed via participation in program, unless voluntarily discussed during program. Members of a team are to be treated equally and fairly in this startup venture. Founder roles, rights and obligations to be discussed and negotiated in good faith upon program completion.

Who owns the IP?

IP of tech previously developed in academic labs are owned by respective institutions. Teams are expected to obtain consent from respective tech transfer offices to enter Nucleate. Teams will work with tech transfer offices to build a compelling case to spin-out tech into startup.

When is the application due?

Applications for the 2027 cohort are due on October 20th, 2026. Please send your question to activator@nucleate.org, or directly request more information from your local chapters.