Research2Market | Berytech-USJ edition

Saint-Joseph University and Berytech are partnering to launch the Research2Market program to empower USJ researchers, PHD students and innovators to turn applied research into commercially viable, industry-ready solutions and successful startup spinoffs across sectors.

By accelerating research commercialization, the program contributes to Lebanon’s industrial renewal, driving innovation-led growth, fostering locally developed technologies.

Through tailored mentoring, hands-on capacity-building workshops, and access to expert networks, Research2Market equips researchers with the entrepreneurial skills needed to bring innovations to market, unlock regional partnerships, pursue licensing opportunities, and access long-term funding.

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Who is it for?

Research2Market is designed for researchers, instructors, PHD students and innovators with applied research projects or technologies who are ready to move beyond the lab and into the market. The program primarily targets senior researchers and PhD candidates with strong research outputs and high potential for commercialization and societal impact, and who aspire to create startup spinoffs and gain international exposure.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Applied, innovative and technology-based research with an existing prototype or tested proof of concept

Projects addressing a significant economic and/or social challenge

Demonstrated market relevance and economic viability

Scalability potential at the national, regional, or international level

A committed team with relevant expertise, strong motivation, and a clear IP governance model, including at least one dedicated business founding member

Openness to interdisciplinary collaboration, with active engagement across faculties and instituts of USJ

Commitment to program’s support activities

Program Phases

1

Call for Applications & Selection

11 February – 10 April 2026

Researchers and early-stage teams are invited to apply with their applied research or technology-based projects.
Following evaluation, 4 teams will be selected to join the program.

2

Intensive Bootcamp (4 Teams)

Bootcamp will take place Early May 2026 (exact dates to be announced)

Bootcamp Title: From Lab to Market – Transforming Applied Research into Viable Business Models

Description:
This intensive 3-day entrepreneurship bootcamp is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and market application. Through hands-on, expert-led sessions, participating teams will explore market needs, define value propositions, and build the foundations for commercialization.
Delivered by experts from Berytech, USJ, and industry specialists, the bootcamp fast-tracks the journey from applied research to viable startup concepts.

3

Acceleration Phase (4 Teams → 2 Teams)

May – June 2026 (2 months)

Objective:
This phase focuses on market validation and business model refinement. Teams will test assumptions, engage with potential users or partners, and strengthen key components of their ventures, including market need, financial feasibility, IP and legal structure, team setup, and product readiness.
Support is delivered through group coaching and targeted expert sessions led by USJ and Berytech.
At the end of the acceleration phase, 2 teams will be selected to proceed for the incubation phase.

4

Incubation Phase (2 Teams)

July – September 2026 (3 months)

Objective:
The incubation phase provides tailored technical and business advisory support to help research-based ventures advance toward implementation. Based on an initial needs assessment, each team will receive a customized support roadmap.
Through one-on-one mentoring, access to experts, and lab facilities, teams will focus on advancing their solution and structuring their venture.

5

Jury & Showcase Event

October 2026

The program concludes with a jury and public showcase event, where incubated teams present their projects to a panel of experts, partners, and ecosystem stakeholders.
One final winning project will be selected for awards and recognition.