How to apply

Turn your idea into your next step 

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.

Step 1

Apply via the website

Send us a brief description of your idea to dlab@vu.nl.
You will receive a response within a week.

Step 2

Intake session

Join a live session where we introduce DLAB and discuss your motivation. We will explain what we offer and expect from participants.The team will explain what we expect from our participants, what support we offer and check if you meet the following three criteria.

Step 3

Pitch session

You will be invited to present your idea in a formal online pitch session. This session is attended by people from the DLAB team, DLAB peer group coaches, and other representatives from the Amsterdam startup ecosystem. 

This is your opportunity to articulate your vision, receive expert feedback, and demonstrate your commitment.
You will be notified of the outcome within one week.

The pitch is free format, but it is always good to elaborate on the unmet need, how your product/service addresses that need, what progress you have already made, and what your next steps will be. The pitch meeting is online via Teams. 

Step 4

Onboarding

If your application is accepted, you will be invited to an onboarding session and officially join the DLAB community. 

Entry criteria

Your idea must meet all of the following conditions: 

> At least one team member is affiliated with VU, UvA, HvA, or Amsterdam UMC (student, staff, or recent graduate)
> The idea is ethically responsible
> The idea is not contradicted by scientific consensus

>>>

What you get 

> A peer-driven, diverse and interdisciplinary community
> Access to coaching and workshops
> Makerspace support for prototype development  
> A coworking space and potentially dedicated office space
> Targeted funding and expert network connections


>>>

Ready to take the next step? 

Click “Join us” to apply 
Or discover more about how it works