IDA Startup Grant
What is the IDA Startup Grant?
IDA and our partner Heyfunding have joined forces to support entrepreneurship in Denmark through the IDA Startup Grant.
STEM startups have enormous potential to drive innovation and create the solutions of tomorrow. The IDA Startup Grant awards DKK 25,000 to one of the most promising STEM startups that transforms new technology and knowledge into a strong business idea with significant growth potential.
Heyfunding is a matchmaking platform connecting startups seeking capital with investors. The company helps entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses navigate opportunities within the startup ecosystem and gain easier access to funding from business angels and investors.
Who can apply for the IDA Startup Grant?
The IDA Startup Grant is aimed at STEM startups.
To apply, your company must meet two overall criteria:
- STEM: Your solution must be within a STEM-related field.
- Startup: Your company must be established and have an active CVR number at the time of application.
How to apply
Submit your application by completing this application form.
What does the IDA Startup Grant include?
The winner is selected from five nominated finalists and receives:
- A cash prize of DKK 25,000
- Free PR and exposure through IDA and Heyfunding
- Access to Heyfunding's Investor Matchmaking Service
- Recognition and validation from experienced stakeholders in the startup ecosystem
When is the application deadline?
Applications open on 1 August 2026. The application deadline is:
- Friday, 13 November 2026 at 18:00
What are the evaluation criteria?
Applications will primarily be assessed based on four parameters:
- Innovation: The company develops innovative solutions that are not already available on the market.
- Potential: The company has the potential to become the next major success story.
- Execution: The applicant can demonstrate that the team is capable of executing its strategy.
- Relevance: The company's solution is related to the STEM field.
When will I receive a response?
All applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. You will receive a confirmation email within a few days of submitting your application.
Only the five strongest applications will be shortlisted as finalists and presented to the selection committee. The finalists will be contacted directly no later than 14 days after the application deadline.
Approximately four weeks after the deadline, the winner of the IDA Startup Grant will be announced through Heyfunding's newsletter and LinkedIn profile and on IDA Startup's LinkedIn profile.
Will my application be treated confidentially?
Yes. Your application and all related information will be treated with full confidentiality. By submitting an application, you accept that it may be shared with members of the selection committee for evaluation purposes.
Who is on the selection committee?
The selection committee consists of the following representatives:
Maria Emilie Kath Danø, Managing Partner, PSV Hafnium
Lisbeth Chawes, CEO of Finari, Angel Investor & Board Member
Morten Halborg, General Partner, Climentum
Mia Grosen, Venture Partner, Superseed
Questions regarding the IDA Startup Grant can be directed to