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New VUB programme takes AI startups and budding entrepreneurs to the next level

Wednesday, 28 June 2023 - The Business Development Academy (BUDA) of Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and the AI for the Common Good Institute (FARI) are launching the new FARI AI Accelerator programme. For six months, budding AI startups and aspiring entrepreneurs will be given the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to help their businesses grow. Thanks to this project, the VUB is taking up its role as an engaged university, as the programme’s aim is to boost the economic fabric of the Brussels region.

BUDA and FARI's AI accelerator programme consists of extensive business development training and personal coaching of participants by industry experts.

According to Geoffrey Aerts, director of VUB BUDA, such a form of learning networking allows nascent AI companies to grow at a rapid pace: ​

"Our hybrid programme includes both online and face-to-face meetings in Brussels. Panels of industry experts share their experiences and provide valuable advice on topics such as fundraising, product development, and market strategy. At the end of the programme, participants get the chance to present their startup during a pitch session in front of a group of potential investors. It is just that cross-pollination of ideas and insights that help participating companies do better and realise their ambitions."

The programme is free of charge. Interested AI startups and entrepreneurs can register through BUDA's website until 31 July.

About BUDA
​The VUB Business Development Academy encourages quality academic business development by offering customised market research and training. In addition, BUDA strives to provide researchers with the necessary tools, resources, and connections to translate their knowledge and expertise into social or economic added value.

About FARI
​FARI is an initiative aimed at developing, studying, and promoting the application and governance of AI, data, and robotics technologies in a reliable, transparent, open, inclusive, ethical, and responsible manner. Inspired by humanist and European values, FARI aims to harness AI-related technologies for societal benefits, such as strengthening and preserving fundamental human rights and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

More information:

Sam Jaspers

Sam Jaspers

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About Press - Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Vrije Universiteit Brussel is an internationally oriented university in Brussels, the heart of Europe. By providing excellent research and education on a human scale, VUB wants to make an active and committed contribution to a better society.

The World Needs You

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel assumes its scientific and social responsibility with love and decisiveness. That’s why VUB launched the platform De Wereld Heeft Je Nodig – The World Needs You, which brings together ideas, actions and projects based on six Ps. The first P stands for People, because that’s what it’s all about: giving people equal opportunities, prosperity, welfare, respect. Peace is about fighting injustice, big and small, in the world. Prosperity combats poverty and inequality. Planet stands for actions on biodiversity, climate, air quality, animal rights... With Partnership, VUB is looking for joint actions to make the world a better place. The sixth and last P is for Poincaré, the French philosopher Henri Poincaré, from whom VUB derives its motto that thinking should submit to nothing except the facts themselves. VUB is an ‘urban engaged university’, strongly anchored in Brussels and Europe and working according to the principles of free research.

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