The Technology Transfer Center (TTC) of Semmelweis University (Hungary) has launched the third round of its Proof of Concept (PoC) programme, which aims to support the practical application and commercialisation of medical and health-science research results.
The programme provides an opportunity to further develop high-potential research generated at university institutes and clinics into marketable solutions that can ultimately be used in everyday patient care. The programme is supported by the Hungarian National Research, Development and Innovation Office.
The PoC programme aims to bridge the riskiest stage between basic research and commercialisation. In the third application cycle, launched in autumn 2026, projects can apply for a total budget of HUF 120 million, with funding of HUF 5–20 million per project.
The TTC provides the most promising projects not only with funding, but also with comprehensive support, including business, regulatory and legal assistance, as well as access to infrastructure, all the way through to market launch.
A new generation of university spin-offs
The TTC aims to create a transparent and high-quality innovation system that provides Semmelweis University researchers with a clear and accessible pathway for translating research results into practical applications.
As in previous rounds, the third call is also open to projects at the basic research stage that aim to advance their technologies towards higher levels of development. Successful PoC projects may ultimately lead to the establishment of spin-off companies or collaborations with industrial partners.
An innovation programme for translating research into practice
The strategic goal of the programme is to strengthen Hungary’s deep-tech ecosystem, particularly in the healthcare sector. The work of the TTC, the PoC programme and related support services aim to improve domestic innovation performance, make better use of university research assets and create new jobs.
Opportunities for industry partners
The TTC is not only open to researchers but also actively builds relationships with industrial partners. Technologies and developments identified through the Proof of Concept programme may offer collaboration opportunities for companies operating in the pharmaceutical, medical device and digital health sectors, including through licensing, joint development and investment.
Projects supported in the autumn 2025 and spring 2026 PoC calls
The first two rounds of the Proof of Concept programme attracted significant interest. Following a professional evaluation, projects with strong scientific foundations and high potential for practical application were selected for support.
In the first round, launched in autumn 2025, six projects in areas including diagnostics, medical technology, drug development and pharmaceutical applications received funding.
In the spring 2026 application round, 30 preliminary applications were received, of which 23 project teams submitted full applications. Following written evaluation, 17 projects advanced to the interview stage. After the completion of the full evaluation process, three projects were selected for funding:
- PhytoVeil™ – development of a nanofibrous wound dressing containing plant-derived extracellular vesicles for the treatment of chronic wounds;
- MiR-Prim-Aldo – development of a microRNA-based test to support the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism, a disorder of the adrenal glands;
- FluoVision – development of an innovative chemical process for producing radioactive PET-CT tracers.
During the next phase, the project teams will focus on meeting key milestones, verifying the functionality and applicability of their technologies, and establishing the professional and commercial conditions needed to advance their developments.
Application deadline and further information
- The deadline for pre-applications for the third round of the PoC programme is September 27, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
- Pre-registration and a mandatory consultation are required before submitting an application.
- Further information about the call and the application process is available on the Semmelweis TTC website.
