VFT-program at University of Gothenburg 2022-2023

Purpose and goal:

The VFT program is an important tool in the work of the innovation office to support innovation, value creation, collaboration and utilization of research-based knowledge from all parts of the University of Gothenburg. Through verification, refinement and exposure of knowledge assets and ideas from the university we create better conditions for them to make an impact in society.

The goal is an increased application of sustainable solutions in society, via the various paths that utilization can take. Expected results and effects:

The VFT program strengthens the competence and capacity for utilization of research-based knowledge both at the innovation office and in the university at large. VFT enables the identification and refinement of more verifiable ideas at more faculties and departments. Through the verification process, more companies and more elaborated collaborations are created between the university and industry, the public sector and the non-profit sector, which strengthens the entire innovation support system and brings new ideas and insights about needs back into academic research.

Approach and implementation:

The Grants and Innovation Office, in collaboration with GU Ventures, provides hands-on feedback on all ideas, which ensures a very broad experience and competence, from idea formulation to business development. The process is constantly evolving to optimize the use of VFT funds to verify different kinds of ideas in the early stages. Relevant activities are granted iteratively to reduce the identified risks and make the idea more mature for the idea bearer and/or others who want to invest resources in continuing to develop it.