The ETH Pioneer Fellowship 2025 is your gateway to transforming breakthrough academic research into real-world innovation. Hosted by ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading science and technology institutions, this prestigious program is open to Master’s, Doctoral, and Postdoctoral students passionate about commercializing their research and launching impactful startups.
This fully-funded opportunity in Switzerland supports researchers ready to enter the startup ecosystem with deep-tech or social innovation ideas. The fellowship spans 10 to 18 months, giving access to cutting-edge labs, business mentorship, and ETH Zurich’s powerful innovation network.
Why Choose the ETH Pioneer Fellowship 2025?
The ETH Pioneer Fellowship is more than just funding—it’s a launchpad for early-stage entrepreneurs. Fellows receive up to CHF 150,000, covering salaries and essential project costs, including research materials, certifications, and travel. Whether you’re building a high-tech solution or a socially impactful enterprise, ETH Zurich equips you with everything needed to succeed.
The fellowship fosters a bridge between academia and the market. Selected fellows get direct access to Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem, personalized mentorship, and a chance to participate in global industry events. The program is structured to not only support idea development but to prepare entrepreneurs for long-term success.
Fellowship Tracks: Deep-Tech & Social Impact
1. Deep-Tech Incubation Program
Designed for high-tech innovations, this track focuses on solutions that can be scaled globally in industries like AI, biotech, materials science, and robotics.
2. Social Impact Incubation Program
Targeted at projects that aim to uplift low-income populations, especially those earning under $10/day in OECD DAC-listed countries. Social entrepreneurs are expected to demonstrate measurable impact in underserved communities.
Key Benefits of ETH Pioneer Fellowship 2025
- CHF 150,000 funding for salary and project needs
- Access to ETH Zurich labs and entrepreneurial facilities
- Expert mentorship from business leaders and academic advisors
- Training in business development, fundraising, and pitching
- Support for certifications, prototypes, and pilot testing
- Opportunity to launch spin-off companies or scalable social ventures
- Immersion in Europe’s most vibrant tech ecosystem
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be Master’s, Doctoral, or Postdoctoral researchers affiliated with ETH Zurich
- Submit a strong, feasible business concept
- Not yet have incorporated their project as a startup
- Secure a letter of endorsement from a host professor at ETH Zurich
- If applying under the social impact track, demonstrate benefits to low-income groups
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form
- CV and List of Publications
- Project Summary and Detailed Proposal
- Financial Plan and disclosure of intellectual property
- Letter of Support from ETH professor
- Optional Video Pitch
Deadline to Apply
1 September 2025 is the final deadline to submit your application.
How to Apply for the ETH Pioneer Fellowship 2025
- Visit the Official Portal on ETH Zurich’s website
- Prepare all documents as listed above
- Fill out the application form completely and accurately
- Upload all documents in PDF format
- Submit your application before the deadline
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If you’re a researcher ready to make a real-world impact, the ETH Pioneer Fellowship 2025 is your stepping stone. This fellowship doesn’t just fund ideas—it builds innovators. With personalized support, world-class facilities, and a global network, ETH Zurich empowers you to go beyond the lab and into the future of entrepreneurship.
