Merck and Nature Research Launch The Spinoff Prize to Support Early-Stage University Spinouts

Darmstadt, Germany, December 5, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck KGaA, a science and technology company headquartered in Darmstadt, Germany, and Nature Research, part of the global academic publisher Springer Nature, have jointly established a new award: The Spinoff Prize*. This prize targets visionary, science-based startup spin-offs worldwide, aiming to raise the profile of academic entrepreneurs and their companies while providing them with greater support.

Global spin-off companies recently established based on scientific research achievements from universities and research institutions are eligible to apply for this award. The jury seeks applicants who can translate high-quality original research outcomes into products and services that address market needs, while demonstrating strong growth and generating positive social impact. Applications are now open, with a deadline of February 28, 2020, and a prize of €30,000.

The inaugural Spin-off Award focuses on the commercialization of research achievements by companies in four fields: pharmaceuticals, agriculture, chemical industry, and digital technology. The shortlisted companies will be featured in a special section in the journal Nature, and the finalists will be presented at the Science Conference “Curious Future Insight Conference 2020“On-site presentations will be conducted during this period to determine the final winner.”

Ulrich Betz, Vice President of Research and Development at Merck, stated, “We are proud that the Nature Research Spin-off Award has become an integral part of the Curious Future Insight Conference, which was established on the occasion of Merck’s 350th anniversary and is one of the most renowned global forums for discussing the future of science and technology.”

Richard Hughes, Vice President of Collaborative Publishing at Nature Research, said, “University spin-offs drive local and national economic growth and deliver solutions to real-world problems. However, there is currently no widely recognized international platform to highlight the contributions and outstanding achievements of these spin-off companies. Therefore, we aim to establish such a platform. We are delighted to co-launch this award with our trusted partner, Merck, and we hope that entrepreneurs will engage with and benefit from this initiative.”

The award’s judging panel comprises editors from Nature Research, Merck KGaA, and its venture capital arm.M Venturessenior representatives, as well as independent experts. Finalists will be invited to compete in person during the Merck Curious 2020 – Future Insight Conference held in Darmstadt, Germany. The awards ceremony will also take place during the conference.

*Spin-off enterprises refer to companies specifically established to facilitate the commercialization of scientific and technological achievements from universities or research institutions.