Get your bioinspired research out of the lab, and into the world 🚀

Build a Startup from Your Science

Anima is launching the Out of the Lab Challenge to help researchers and early-stage teams transform bioinspired research into successfull ventures.

We’re looking for breakthrough ideas that have a positive impact on our planet. If you’re working on something with real-world potential, and want to take it beyond the lab, this is for you.

What You Win

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🏆 €50,000 to move from lab to market

15,000€ non-dilutive capital and €35,000 in hands-on operational support (HR, business strategy, coms) delivered by experienced entrepreneurs.

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Over 6 months, we’ll help you:

• Validate the market and secure early clients
• Turn research into an investable business model
• Build a solid non-scientific deck
• Access non-dilutive funding opportunities

At Anima, we don’t just advise, we co-build.

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In addition, you’ll get:

→ Access to our network of top-tier investors, corporates, and mentors

→ A 1-year licence to Asteria to accelerate your R&D

→ Workspace at our offices in the heart of Paris, at the Climate House

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⭐ Top 5 receives

• Visibility across our communication channels
• Warm introductions to the right people in our ecosystem (corporate partners, operators, and experts)
• Fast-track access to our Programs (Incubation, Studio, Investment)

All Top 5 founders are welcome to work from our Climate House offices!

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for:

☑︎ TRL 3 to 5 Projects : Validated concepts or early- stage prototypes

☑︎ Nature-inspired approaches (function, form, or process)

☑︎ Researchers, project leads or early-stage startups ready to transition from concept to market

☑︎ Teams from any country

☑︎ Ambition to build something that scales

Timeline

• Applications open: March 10th to April 30th 2026
• Top 5 announced: June 2026
• Winners revealed: July 2026

How to Apply

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You can apply either in English or French

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Step 1

Complete the application form →

Out of the Lab Application Form

Step 2

Send us a short video: What are your next 3 challenges, and what would you do with the money? Be honest. Show us where you are and where you want to go.