The Research to Business (R2B) Programme is a 24-month regional initiative designed to help applied research teams across the Mediterranean commercialize their scientific discoveries. Initiated by the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), the program transforms knowledge into market-ready innovations through structured mentoring, expert guidance, and regional ecosystem engagement.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Research Commercialization & Acceleration Program
- For: Applied research teams in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Tunisia, Mauritania, Algeria, and Syria
- Key Benefits: Two immersive bootcamps in Spain, 300+ hours of mentoring, and investor matchmaking
- Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
- Location: Regional (Remote mentoring with in-person bootcamps in Spain)
Research To Business Overview
The R2B Programme supports regional research priorities by bridging the gap between academia and industry. Led by Berytech in partnership with ANIMA Investment Network and the University of Barcelona, the program focuses on sectors like climate change, renewable energy, health, and deep tech. The initiative aims to strengthen regional collaboration and contribute to innovation-driven growth across the Mediterranean.
Key Benefits
- Immersive Training: Access to two high-intensity, in-person bootcamps held in Spain.
- Expert Guidance: Over 300 hours of remote mentoring and tailored support from subject matter professionals.
- Funding Pathways: Direct linkages to investors and stakeholder matchmaking opportunities to secure partnerships.
- Market Readiness: Support in building strong commercialization strategies and winning pitches for investor-ready positioning.
- Regional Exposure: High visibility for innovations across the Mediterranean innovation community.
Eligibility Criteria
- Team Composition: Open to applied research teams affiliated with universities or research institutions, including academic researchers, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral researchers.
- Project Maturity: Projects must be beyond early-stage research, demonstrating a proof of concept or initial validation with strong commercial potential.
- Eligible Countries: At least one core founder must originate from Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Tunisia, Mauritania, Algeria, or Syria.
- Sector Focus: Innovations should address regional challenges in:
- AgriTech & Sustainable Food Systems
- Water, Renewable Energy & Climate Change Technologies
- Applied HealthTech
- Green & Blue Economy
- Deep Tech & Digital Solutions
Key Dates and Schedule
- Application Deadline: June 1, 2026.
- Selection Process: May – June 2026 (15 teams will be selected for Cohort 1).
- Program Kick-off: July 2026 with an immersive bootcamp in Spain.
- Mentoring Phase: July – December 2026 (Remote support and matchmaking).
- Closing Showcase: November – December 2026 (Final bootcamp and project showcase in Spain).
How to Apply
Interested research teams must submit their applications before the June 1, 2026 deadline. Applicants should ensure their projects demonstrate clear application and potential for real-world deployment within the Mediterranean region.
Apply here: https://berytech.org/programs/ufm-research-to-business/
About Berytech
Berytech is an ecosystem for entrepreneurs in Lebanon, providing a dynamic environment for the creation and development of startups and SMEs. They foster innovation and technology through various programs, facilities, and funding opportunities, aiming to support entrepreneurs from the ideation stage to market growth.
Learn More: Berytech
