Summer School 2026 in Zurich
Date: 8–10 September 2026
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
Gain hands-on experience, practical tools and expert insights while building a strong network to turn your ideas in energy innovation in AI, quantum and resilience into an impactful energy venture.
Application closes 17 April 2026 (11:59 pm CEST)
About the Energy Launchpad Summer School
The Energy Launchpad Summer School 2026 is a three-day interactive learning and networking programme designed to help participants accelerate science-based energy innovations from research to spinoffs. Organised by the Energy Launchpad and hosted at ETH Zurich from 8–10 September 2026, the programme focuses on innovation in energy in relation to AI, quantum and energy resilience.
It is aimed at Doctoral/PhD candidates, postdocs, advanced MSc students and future founders who want to explore technology-based entrepreneurship in the energy sector and develop early-stage ideas.
Through expert inputs, interactive workshops and peer exchange, participants gain practical tools, real-world insights and a strong cross-university network across ETH Zurich, TUM and TU Vienna. Participants leave with actionable frameworks, hands-on exposure to early-stage entrepreneurship, and a peer community to support their next steps.
Project Partner
The Energy Launchpad is proud to have InnoEnergy as a project partner and supporter of our Summer School.
Programme Highlights
Tuesday, 8 September 2026
From research to opportunity
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Explore key innovation trends shaping future energy systems in the DACH region (e.g., AI, quantum)
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Develop your technology's value proposition for the energy sector
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Engage with and learn from experienced entrepreneurs
Wednesday, 9 September 2026
From opportunity to venture
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Understand what drives investors and corporates to collaborate with energy startups
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Get key tools to turn your research into a viable energy venture
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Benefit from hands-on coaching and feedback from industry experts, professors and entrepreneurs
Thursday, 10 September 2026
From venture to story
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Learn how to effectively communicate your vision to investors and corporate partners
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Develop a compelling elevator pitch for your venture idea
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Pitch your idea to experts, potential partners, and investors, and receive actionable feedback
Why you should join
Kickstart your venture idea
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Gain practical tools and frameworks you can apply beyond the programme
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Learn how to turn research or technology into a scalable energy venture
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Understand what to prioritise and common early-stage pitfalls
Build a network
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Connect with peers across the DACH region and the innovation and energy networks of ETH Zurich, TUM and TU Wien
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Engage with mentors, investors, industry experts and founders
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Get direct feedback and build relationships within the ecosystem
Continue your journey
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Access to incubators, accelerators and venture programmes
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Opportunities for spin-offs and further development
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Continued support through corporate partners, coaches and the alumni network
Who can apply
The programme is designed for Doctoral/PhD candidates, postdocs, advanced MSc students and early-stage founders with a link to academia who are working on or exploring science-based energy innovations.
You can apply individually or as a team (2 max.)
Requirements:
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You have a pre-existing technology or solution hypothesis (incl. pre-seed stage) which could lead to a spin-off.
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Your work relates to energy, ideally in AI, quantum or resilience.
You are a strong fit if you:
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want to turn research into a venture or real-world application
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are motivated to build and test ideas, not just explore them
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are open to feedback, iteration and collaboration
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want to work in an interdisciplinary, cross-university environment
Application closes 17 April 2026 (11:59 pm CEST)
Next Steps
Submit Application
1–17 April 2026
Submit your application with your project idea and contact details. Include a short video with relevant information about your venture.
Participation Offer
Mid May 2026
You will be informed whether your application is accepted including the detailed programme agenda. Selected participants confirm their spot by paying the participation fee of 300 CHF.
Information Webinar
3 September 2026
Join an introductory session to prepare for the Summer School. You’ll receive all the key insights and guidance to feel confident and ready from day one on.
Summer School
8–10 September 2026
Attend the Summer School with workshops, expert sessions, and networking activities in Zurich. Work on your project and connect with other participants.
Post-Programme Events
25–26 November 2026
Take part in a final event to showcase your project. Outstanding teams will be recognised at the Energy Launchpad Award in Munich.