How it works

From idea to impact, one step at a time

DLAB is open to students, researchers, staff, and recent alumni from VU, UvA, HvA, and Amsterdam UMC. Whether you are testing a new concept or developing a research-based solution, DLAB is the place to explore, build, and validate. 

You do not need a business plan. Just a clear idea and the drive to take action. 
How it works in 4 steps.

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DLAB is built for the earliest phase of entrepreneurship. You may have a concept, a research insight, or a rough sketch of a solution. Wherever you are starting, we help you move forward with structure, support, and momentum. 

Our approach is based on learning by doing. We guide you through a staged process that turns your idea into a real, validated venture — at your pace, with your ambition. 

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The three DLAB stages
Each project at DLAB moves through one or more of the following stages. These are not strict checkpoints but guideposts for focus, support, and reflection. 

Jump 

Discover The Problem
First 3–9 months
Discover the customer, validate the problem, and decide if entrepreneurship suits you. 

> Participate in the JUMP program to get started
> Reframe your idea as a hypothesis
> Pick a customer segment to focus on
> Validate the customer and problem through 100+ interviews
> Find the earlyvangelist
> Identify key stakeholders and their unique needs
> Map (in)direct alternatives and existing solutions

> Conduct desk research to understand the market and trends
> Define your ambition



After approximately 3 months, there is an evaluation moment to reflect on personal motivation, availability, and commitment.

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Dive 

Validate The Solution
Typically 3–9 months
Go from exploration to creation. Build a prototype and let the experimenting begin. 

> Access makerspace and lab facilities
> Design your solution and create prototypes
> Experiment with users and stakeholders

> Test riskiest assumptions through real-world feedback
> Prepare the scope of your MVP
> Design your initial funding strategy
> Join competitions or national incubators Interview users and stakeholders

Keep testing, learning and iterating on your solution to create something your customers truly need.

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Swim 

Aquire First Customer
Typically 3–18 months
Focus on acquiring your first contracts, pilots or sales.

> Build team capacity and define roles
> Create your first investor pitch deck
> Apply for grants or early-stage investment
> Build your MVP
> Secure your first commercial customers or pilot projects
> Set up legal structures if needed (e.g. B.V.)
> Expand your network of partners and mentors
> Once on the market, prepare for the next phase beyond DLAB

DLAB support continues as long as you remain active, engaged, and within scope. Once you outgrow our resources, we help you design your exit strategy and next steps. 

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What defines progress at DLAB? 

We do not measure success in revenue alone. Progress means: 

Testing your assumptions
Engaging with real users
Iterating based on feedback
Building prototypes that can fail or fly
Sharing your journey with the community 

Your next step might be a startup, a scientific tool, a research valorisation pathway or simply a deeper understanding of what it takes to create something real. 

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What we ask of you 

DLAB is free of charge, but not free of commitment. In return for our support, we ask you to: 

Actively participate in our sessions and events
Update us monthly on your progress
Contribute to the community by sharing knowledge and helping peers
Dedicate meaningful time to your project 

Ready to start your journey?