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The First Phase of the Launcher Program has Commenced: 20 Teams Take the Path from Idea to Validated Business Model
Following the closure of the public call for participation in the Launcher program, which generated great interest and attracted 108 applications, the first phase began with 20 carefully selected startup teams. Over the next five weeks, these teams will be working intensively on developing their ideas through a structured educational process and practical exercises.
Phase 1 of the program focuses on defining and developing startup ideas, with a special emphasis on validating the problem and shaping a clear value proposition. Teams go through eight educational modules that guide them from an initial idea to a sustainable business model. The education is based on the principles of the Running Lean methodology, which allows startups to systematically test business assumptions, identify key risks and receive feedback directly from users.
“We are very pleased with the large number of applications received for this year’s Launcher program cycle, especially since they come from different parts of Serbia, including regions from which we have not had representatives before. This shows us that the entrepreneurial spirit is growing and spreading, and it is a strong incentive for us to build the program even more carefully.”
Launcher is designed to provide early-stage startups with concrete and comprehensive support exactly where they need it most. Teams are provided with a structured educational process that guides them through key steps – from problem identification and validation, through market testing, to defining a minimum viable product (MVP).
“In addition, through regular sessions with experienced mentors from the business and technology community, participants receive concrete advice, support, and guidance that help them turn their ideas into viable solutions. We look forward to working with this diverse and talented group of teams in the coming weeks,” stated STP Niš.
The first phase of the program ends in July with the presentation of results at the Demo Day, when teams present their progress to the Commission. On the basis of clearly defined criteria, a decision will be made on which teams move on to the second phase of the program, which lasts up to five months, being an intensive development period focused on market preparation and further scaling.
The goal of the Launcher program is to provide early-stage startups with systemic support, help them develop solutions with real market potential, and contribute to the development of sustainable technological entrepreneurship in Serbia – with a special focus on the territory of AP Kosovo and Metohija.
*The program is being implemented by STP Niš in cooperation with the Startup Center Niš, the Regional Innovation Center Zubin Potok, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Niš, and the Faculty of Diplomacy and Security, with financial support from the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation, the City of Niš, and the company Fazi,co-funded by the European Union through the European Digital Innovation Hubs (S4AI_Hub) project.
