Updates
New cohort applications now open — apply before May 15DEIED Summit 2026 announced — register your spot500+ startups funded in Q1 2026Digital Skills Training expanded to all 64 districtsInnovation Challenge 2026 winners announcedNew cohort applications now open — apply before May 15DEIED Summit 2026 announced — register your spot500+ startups funded in Q1 2026Digital Skills Training expanded to all 64 districtsInnovation Challenge 2026 winners announced
UIHP

Welcome to the Innovation Cohort Program

A structured programme at the University Innovation Hub Program (UIHP) — nurturing students, graduates, and alumni with innovative ideas and the ambition to turn them into viable businesses.


Guided Hours

81 hrs

Programme Duration

16 Weeks

Cohort Size

~50 Members

Class Model

Blended

About the Programme

Transformative Entrepreneurial Journey

Embark on a transformative journey with the Innovation Cohort Program — a pivotal element of the University Innovation Hub Program (UIHP). We are committed to nurturing the next wave of entrepreneurs among students, graduates, and faculty members by equipping them with essential skills, tools, and resources.

Eligibility & Structure

AssessmentWeekly evaluations
EligibilityTeams of 3–5 students, alumni & faculty
Gender InclusivityMinimum one female member per team
Cohort FrequencyMultiple cohorts running across campuses

Objectives

What the Programme Aims to Achieve

Three clear goals that guide every aspect of the Innovation Cohort Program.

Develop Entrepreneurial Skills

Equip participants with comprehensive training in innovation and entrepreneurship — building the mindset and capabilities needed to turn ideas into viable businesses.

Develop Entrepreneurial Skills

Equip participants with comprehensive training in innovation and entrepreneurship — building the mindset and capabilities needed to turn ideas into viable businesses.

Foster Product Innovation

Guide participants in developing over 300 working prototypes that solve real-world problems, supported by mentorship from experienced industry leaders.

Foster Product Innovation

Guide participants in developing over 300 working prototypes that solve real-world problems, supported by mentorship from experienced industry leaders.

Launch Successful Startups

Support the establishment and growth of at least 100 startups, ready to make an impactful market entry with access to funding, co-working spaces, and strategic guidance.

Launch Successful Startups

Support the establishment and growth of at least 100 startups, ready to make an impactful market entry with access to funding, co-working spaces, and strategic guidance.


Programme Structure

How the Cohort Works

Organised into strategically designed cohorts, the programme unfolds over several phases — perfectly aligned with the academic calendar.

Cohort-Based Learning

Participants are grouped into cohorts of around 50 individuals, going through a structured programme over several months aligned with the university academic calendar.

Training Modules

The curriculum covers innovation principles such as design thinking and lean startup methodologies, as well as practical aspects including business model development, financial literacy, and leadership skills.


Curriculum

Comprehensive Curriculum

Four critical areas providing a well-rounded entrepreneurial education experience.

Innovation Methodologies

Learn design thinking and lean startup methodologies to enhance creative problem-solving and build products that meet real market needs.

Business Acumen

Gain insights into business model development, financial literacy, and strategic leadership — the cornerstones of a scalable venture.

Hands-On Experience

Engage in practical sessions involving prototyping and MVP development, facilitated by experienced industry leaders and entrepreneurs.

Continuous Mentorship

Receive guidance from seasoned mentors who provide industry insights, networking opportunities, and ongoing support throughout the programme.


Execution

From Idea to Market

A three-phase execution pathway that takes participants from raw concepts to market-ready products.

01

Ideation to MVP

Cohort participants receive training and mentorship to refine their ideas through workshops, seminars, and interaction with industry experts. As the programme progresses, participants transform ideas into prototypes — and successful prototypes receive further support to develop into MVPs.

02

Mentorship & Resources

Throughout the programme, participants have access to mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals, plus co-working spaces, labs, and technical equipment to develop their prototypes.

03

Funding Support

Top-performing teams within cohorts can access pre-seed and seed funding — crucial financial support for testing, refining, and launching prototypes into the market.


Outcomes

What Participants Gain

The Innovation Cohort Program delivers tangible outcomes — beyond the classroom and into the market.

Innovation Showcases

At various stages, participants showcase their prototypes and MVPs to potential investors and industry stakeholders through pitch events and innovation fairs.

Post-Cohort Support

After completing the cohort, participants continue to receive guidance to scale their startups — including additional funding rounds, networking opportunities, and strategic advice.


Requirements

Who Can Apply

Students & Alumni

Eager to transform innovative ideas into business solutions.

Faculty Members

Interested in commercialising research or fostering entrepreneurship within the academic community.

Participants are expected to:

Demonstrate high motivation and commitment to pursuing entrepreneurship
Engage actively with the curriculum and mentorship opportunities
Collaborate effectively with peers and industry professionals
How to Join

Ready to Turn Your Idea into a Business?

If you are affiliated with one of our participating universities and have a project or idea that aligns with technology-driven innovation, the Innovation Cohort Program is your gateway to turning entrepreneurial aspirations into reality.