Nine out of ten innovations fail, in many cases because a prototype has not been sufficiently tested before it’s launched in the market. This costs entrepreneurs a lot of time, money and energy.
Fast and effective solutions for a more sustainable and social world are needed more than ever. It is therefore important that these solutions come onto the market successfully. Innofest links these innovations to a test location in the real world and helps to put together a pilot with the entrepreneur. Find out what kinds of tests are possible here.
Before the corona crisis, Innofest only tested at festivals. Festivals are temporary societies that look a lot like the real world. Since March, festivals are no longer self-evident, which is why we have started working together with new locations. When selecting alternative living labs, we kept in mind the aspects that have proven to be important for a test location, such as flexibility and a diverse public. As a result, various entrepreneurs used the infrastructure of camping site Stortemelk and the terrace of Paradigm Biergarten as a test spot.
Innofest Test Teevee was set up to test innovations with end users, without coming close to each other. A test panel receives an Innofest Testbox with innovations at home. These products are extensively tested and during the Innofest Test Teevee live show the entrepreneur receives feedback on his or her product.
Innofest not only wants to help entrepreneurs, we also want to contribute to a better world. That is why Innofest works with impact start-ups. There are only a limited number of places available every year. In order to be considered, a prototype must be innovative, testing at a living lab should clearly have added value and the innovation is expected to have a business case and contribute to a better world – now or in the near future.
Over the past few years, Innofest has helped well over 180 entrepreneurs further develop their innovations. Our team specializes in making validation as practical as possible, no matter how complicated the technology. During three Inno-lessons beforehand, entrepreneurs are prepared for the test, so that as much as possible can be learned in a short time. During testing, the entrepreneur is supported by a producer who ensures that the test question and living lab connect seamlessly. Moreover, the Innofest team has a gigantic network that we like to share with our entrepreneurs.
A recent study by the University of Groningen shows that the Innofest approach delivers results. The process gives entrepreneurs better insight into their own product and the needs of the market. And it gives start-ups the much-needed confidence to enter the market with a new product. Over 70% of the alumni indicates that thanks to the Innofest approach, their entrepreneurial skills have improved. And no less than 80% were able to identify new customer segments or customers thanks to the test. Send us an email.
Entrepreneurs who test with Innofest can also count on increased brand awareness thanks to all the media attention it generates. Throughout the year, various national, regional and trade media cover Innofest and the participating innovations.
You can find out more about the innovations that Innofest has helped over the past few years on our case page. If you would like to register an innovation or if you have any questions, please contact us.