Boldbrain targets early-stage startups and ideas from any sector, as long as they demonstrate a high level of innovation, scalability, and potential impact on the Ticino region. To support entrepreneurship in Ticino, specific eligibility criteria have been defined, which must be met. Only projects proposed by teams that meet these criteria can be admitted to Boldbrain.
- Are composed of at least two people
- In case there is already a registered company, it must not be more than three years old at the time of submitting the application
- Are willing to develop the project in Ticino
- Have not completed another acceleration program
- Participate with at least one team member in all scheduled mandatory events and meetings
- Submit the required documentation in English
Before submitting your application, make sure to carefully read the Terms & Conditions and the Roadmap.
Ticino offers an ideal environment for entrepreneurship and innovation. Its compact size is not a limitation but rather an advantage: it facilitates networking, brings businesses closer to institutions and prestigious academic institutions, and enhances access to funding, knowledge transfer, and expertise. This ecosystem, represented by the Regional Innovation System, provides a tangible opportunity for startups looking to develop and grow in Ticino.
Specific incentives for startups
The Office for Economic Development provides financial support to startups that have gained access to Innosuisse’s startup coaching program or have completed other federal acceleration programs.
Tax breaks
Startups that meet the innovation criteria set by the Tax Law of the Canton of Ticino may qualify for tax incentives. Additionally, the 10 Boldbrain finalists, if already established as capital companies, may also be eligible for these tax benefits.
To further encourage venture capital investment, individual residents of Ticino who invest in startups based in the canton – such as by purchasing equity shares – can benefit from preferential tax treatment.
Ticino is among the most attractive cantons for the birth and growth of startups and innovative ideas.
Discover the experiences of our alumni through their testimonials and be inspired by their journeys. By reading their stories, you will understand how Boldbrain has contributed to the growth of their startups and positively influenced their entrepreneurial paths.
CC Cardio
BB25, 1st prize
“Boldbrain helped us see our project with fresh eyes, pushing us to explore possibilities we had never considered before. It was an experience that redefined our perspectives for the future.”
Maria Alexandra Cetățoiu, Co-Founder
Fima Global
BB24, Finalist
“Boldbrain ci ha aiutato a guardare al nostro progetto con occhi nuovi, spingendoci a esplorare possibilità che non avevamo mai considerato. È stata un’esperienza che ha ridefinito le nostre prospettive per il futuro.”
Katarzyna Aebischer, Sales Director
Foldcast
BB23, 1st prize + Audience Award
“Participating in Boldbrain meant taking my startup to the next level. The support we received, combined with a network of top-level professionals, made what once seemed out of reach possible.”
Fabio Amicarelli, Founder
Revozona
BB22, 5th prize + Audience Award
“The structured approach and tailored coaching provided by Boldbrain made a real difference for our project. The program’s quality allowed us to tackle challenges with greater awareness and unlock new growth opportunities.”
Gérard Peters, Founder
PepperZone
BB21, 2nd prize
“Without Boldbrain, securing our first funding would have been much more challenging. We learned key concepts such as Convertible Notes and were able to present ourselves to investors with confidence and competence.”
Luca Ambrosini, Co-Founder
WYTH
BB20, 4th prize
“Boldbrain’s support was crucial in positioning us within the complex Swiss ecosystem. Thanks to the resources offered and strategic connections, we were able to accelerate our growth and attract our first investors.”
Samuele Franzini, Co-Founder
I'm Back
BB18, 2nd prize
“The positive energy at Boldbrain is truly unique. Through coaching, workshops, and networking, we found an environment that genuinely fueled our growth and pushed us to give our best.”
Filippo Nishino, Co-Founder