Wake-up 4.0

Program to support the creation of start-ups with application in Industry 4.0 for young entrepreneurs

Objective

Considering the importance of dynamizing technological entrepreneurship ecosystems in Portugal, the technological potential of the North and Center regions and the increasingly emerging application of ICT to “traditional” industries, the WAKE-UP 4.0 project aims to promote entrepreneurship, with a special focus on the younger generations, by fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that promotes the creation of start-ups in the areas of ICT application to the automobile components and machinery manufacturing sectors.

The goal is to support entrepreneurs in the process of generating, validating, and accelerating their business ideas, adapting them to the real needs of the industry. The new entrepreneurs will be given an entrepreneurial mindset through the implementation of several training sessions, workshops, and hackathons, which will allow them to develop their business ideas in a more sustained way.

Additionally, support will be given during the process of company creation, thus ensuring the follow-up of entrepreneurs from the ideation phase to market entry. Young entrepreneurs can also enjoy one-on-one sessions with qualified mentors in order to ensure the correct direction of their business, accelerating the placement of new innovative products and services in the national and international value chain.

Impact

– Promote the development of students’ entrepreneurial skills as well as new solutions aligned with Industry 4.0.

– Strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem to meet the challenges posed by industry.

– Promote demonstration and pilot actions to leverage the creation of 12 new companies.

INOV Participation

INOV, in consortium with the Oliveira de Azeméis County Business Association (AECOA), seeks to raise awareness among young people about the importance of a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, especially in high school and college.

With this objective, thematic sessions will be made available to facilitate access to knowledge in the areas of business creation and plans, financing tools/programs, marketing, and communication; and interaction sessions with business and scientific mentors, and with successful companies and entrepreneurs.