13 Projects Selected as the University of Szeged TTC Completes the First Proof of Concept Milestone

For SZTE TTC, it is of particular importance that this programme is specifically designed to help advance the results of fundamental research conducted at the University of Szeged by supporting their technological and market validation, bringing research outcomes closer to practical application. Before entering the PoC programme, all applicants underwent rigorous scientific validation by University of Szeged experts, ensuring that each project entered the programme with a strong research foundation and solid scientific credibility.

Prior to receiving funding, each applicant participated in a dedicated mentoring programme provided by the professional team at SZTE TTC. The mentoring focused on business development, market strategy, and strengthening an investor-oriented approach. The project teams received targeted support in refining their pitch presentations, developing their business models, and addressing intellectual property and commercialization issues, ensuring they are well prepared for future discussions with investors and industrial partners.

A seven-member evaluation committee was established to assess the applications. The members were carefully selected to ensure compliance with the formal and professional requirements of the PoC programme while also enabling well-founded decisions based on both scientific excellence and market potential. The committee consisted of András Ujhegyi (Chief Executive Officer, SZTE TTC Ltd.), Dr. Gabriella Bulik (Managing Director, SZTE Holding Ltd.), Dr. Ildikó Mária Csóka Pannonhalminé (Chief Strategy Officer, University of Szeged), Dr. Zoltán Kónya (Vice Rector for Science and Innovation, University of Szeged), Réka Barabás (Director of Knowledge Utilization, National Innovation Agency), Miklós Mohai (Managing Director, Futurmed Ltd.), and Viktor Szekeres (Founder and Chairman, Gloster Infocommunications Plc.). As a result of the evaluation process, 13 applicants were selected to receive funding ranging from HUF 12 million to HUF 40 million, enabling them to carry out their PoC projects, which typically have a duration of 12 months. While the supported projects represent various scientific disciplines, they all share a common objective: building upon fundamental research with strong potential for further technological development and successful market application.

The programme is implemented as a consortium partnership with Innome TTC, the technology transfer organisation affiliated with the University of Miskolc. Innome TTC has also successfully fulfilled the requirements of the programme's first milestone, enabling valuable university projects to receive support and further strengthening Hungary's university innovation ecosystem.

For SZTE TTC, the Proof of Concept Programme represents an important opportunity to provide tangible support to the University's researchers and innovators throughout the journey from innovative ideas to market validation. We are already proud to contribute to the success of the University of Szeged's applicants and to continue building an innovation ecosystem where academic knowledge is transformed into competitive market solutions.