Venture Challenge alumni advance to final phase of Academic Startup Competition 2026

Four Venture Challenge alumni have been selected among the top 10 startups advancing to the final phase of the Academic Startup Competition 2026 (ASC26).

The selected venture challenge teams were:
• Twente Medical Optics (Venture Challenge Spring 2024)
• Constellate Proteomics (Venture Challenge Fall 2025)
• Myriagon (Venture Challenge Fall 2025 winner)
• UCANACT (Venture Challenge 2025/2026 MedTech edition)

Following an intense Pitch Day, these startups stood out for their strong scientific foundation, clear vision, and ability to translate research into real-world impact.

From Venture Challenge to national recognition

Their selection highlights the strength of the LifeSciences@Work ecosystem in supporting early-stage ventures in building solid business cases and preparing for growth beyond academia.

About ASC26

The Academic Startup Competition brings together the most promising academic startups in the Netherlands. The selected teams will now enter the final phase of the programme, where they will further refine their strategy, expand their network, and prepare for international exposure, including a program in London.

Congratulations to all selected teams, and in particular to these four Venture Challenge alumni on reaching this milestone.

Source: ASC