From top-of-the-line research to societal impact
RUG Ventures is an early-stage investment company right at the academic heart of the Northern Netherlands. We specialize in translating high-risk research driven concepts into flourishing businesses.
Our latest activities
Let's generate impact together
Whether you’ve already set your first steps into the entrepreneurial world or you’re just longing for a good coffee, we’d love to have you swing by.
RUG Ventures invests in the future
Long-term partner
RUG Ventures offers guidance from the very first step onwards. Whether you have already finished your business plan or are still in the process of figuring it all out, we’re here for you along the way.
Tailored mentorship
Using our team members’ extensive technical knowledge, we’re here to steer you in the right direction. As your strategic partner, we can provide you with experienced mentors, industry experts, and advisors to help you navigate challenges.
Investment
Our core competence is to find the necessary funding to start up your company. We’ll start by getting to know you and your business. Together, we can set up the funding strategy that suits your needs.
Facts & Figures
RUG Ventures has been active for over 25 years and our track record investing in early stage startups has been more than successful.
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Average start investment
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Total successful startups
Get to know our participations
News
January 28, 2022
News
October 28, 2021
Innovation Day Event
The annual Innovation Day event is an excellent opportunity to learn about the exciting university startup ecosystem, with a range of informative and inspiring events on the agenda. The event provides a unique platform for RUG and UMCG innovators to showcase their work.
The Innovation Day event brings together a group of expert speakers who are at the forefront of innovation and technology. Each year, the Impact Innovator Excellence Award is awarded to an exemplary academic innovator within the Northern ecosystem. Furthermore, the event provides you with endless networking opportunities. Get ready to be inspired by fellow entrepreneurs, impactful academics, and other likeminded individuals.
Join us in celebrating academic excellence! The next edition of the Innovation Day will take place on June 19th, 2025. Mark your calendars!
How our business helps yours
Our core competence is to provide the necessary support to start up your business. During our meetings we will determine, together with the founders, which option fits best with the company.
A convertible loan is a standard loan with the potential of being converted into equity at a later stage.
With an investment on equity, the investor acquires shares in the company in exchange for the investment.
We focus on what we know best
Because of our close ties with the University of Groningen, we have a very broad expertise. Our focus therefore lies on a wide range of areas.
Increasing people’s health and quality of life through prevention and care.
Improving the food production system from start to finish with a focus on sustainability and health.
Developing digital initiatives that contribute towards an improved society and a sustainable future.
Aiding the transition towards green chemistry and a circular and sustainable economy.
Ensuring water safety and regulating fresh water supplies for nature and agriculture.
Enabling the technologies, materials and machinery of the future.