Run by Cambridge Enterprise and the Entrepreneurial Postdocs of Cambridge, The Chris Abell Postdoc Business Plan Competition has become a key annual programme in the University’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and has spawned a number of successful spin-out companies including Nu Quantum, Porotech, Semarion and Xampla.
Launched on 19 April, this year’s competition is sponsored by international law firm Mishcon de Reya, with prizes sponsored by Cambridge Innovation Capital, Oxbridge Angels, ideaSpace and the Women in Therapeutics & Medical Innovation Network (WIThMI), founded by The Cambridge Academy of Therapeutic Sciences.
Once again the quality of entries has been outstanding and innovative in equal measure.
The 2023 Chris Abell Postdoc Business Plan Competition semi-finalists are:
The semi-finalists will be matched with a mentor who will work with them to help them improve their business plans. Chris Abell Postdoc Business Plan Competition semi-finalists are invited to participate in an additional programme of activities during the summer period to support and accelerate their business idea. Comprising a blend of round table discussions, one-to-one sessions and opportunities to engage with other semi-finalists, topics covered include customer validation, building a team, investment and pitching.
Up to six finalists will be selected to compete at the Grand Finale event, taking place on Thursday 9 November 2023, pitching their business plans to a panel of judges who are experts in spin-out investment.
This year’s prizes are:
Congratulations and good luck to all our semi-finalists, and a big thank you to all who entered.
Want to learn more?
Visit our dedicated page to learn more about the Chris Abell Postdoc Business Plan Competition, including this year’s timeline, sponsors and prizes.
Join us at the Chris Abell Postdoc Business Plan Competition Grand Finale 2023