Membership in Point One
Take the first step towards becoming a member of Point One. Do you have a business idea brewing in your mind? Do you want to start a business but don’t know where to begin? Or perhaps you already have a business, but you are facing challenges and need help moving forward? If any of these scenarios apply to you, one of Point One’s programmes might be the perfect solution.
However, in order to access the benefits of our incubator services, your idea or project must undergo an internal evaluation.
In this section of our website, you will find all the necessary information and the application form to initiate the evaluation process.
Before you start filling out the application, we strongly recommend that you carefully read all the content provided below.
Who are we looking for?
Both novices and seasoned entrepreneurs
Our incubator is designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs who have yet to establish a company. We also extend our services to those who are already in business but seeking to accelerate their growth.
For novices, we offer incubation programmes that enable them to transform their ideas into feasible business plans. Experienced entrepreneurs can take advantage of our customized Acceleration programme, which provides tailored support for their specific projects.
Connection to ČZU
Point One is a business incubator at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague. Nevertheless, having a direct affiliation or prior experience with ČZU is not a prerequisite for participation in our Incubation or Acceleration programmes (although it is preferred). Membership is open to all.
We primarily focus on supporting projects that align with the areas of interest at our university.
Therefore, your business should fall within at least one of the following categories:
Food industry
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Smart farming
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Environmental protection
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Other
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Team player personality
Not everyone is cut out for the challenges of running a business. It requires the right mindset, a strong drive towards one’s goals, and perhaps even a touch of healthy madness. The path to success involves a significant amount of behind-the-scenes effort. Are you determined to prove yourself? Then you’re the one we’re looking for.
But it’s not just about what you can gain from the community — it’s also about what you can contribute. Point One operates as a collective of like-minded individuals, and we expect you to mesh well with this community. Here, you’ll not only have the opportunity to network with fellow members who share your passion for business, but you’ll also have access to a diverse range of experts. Everyone is here to offer help, guidance, and support. We anticipate a reciprocal approach from you. While you are fully responsible for your own business, being a member of Point One also means being a team player who respects the values of the incubator.
Do you possess the ability to listen and consider the perspective of others, rather than simply nodding along? Progress isn’t solely achieved through praise. You have to be ready to accept a healthy dose of criticism. Can you handle it and utilize it to improve? If so, fantastic! The capacity to listen and reflect on oneself is vital. However, we are not seeking docile followers. We also expect assertiveness and constructive criticism from our members.
Who we don’t cater to
We do not endorse politically-driven endeavours, nor do we entertain projects that harbour offensive, vulgar, or morally objectionable content.
We work on what makes sense to us. Consequently, we do not provide support for projects centred solely around reselling third-party products, among others.
Membership requirements
What are the requirements for membership?
Just like any other organization, Point One operates based on certain formalities and administrative procedures.
If you decide to become a member, you will be required to sign a contract that formalizes our partnership. During the admission process, we will carefully review and discuss the contract’s contents, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of its terms. If you wish to review the contract’s wording in advance, we encourage you to reach out to us, and we will gladly arrange a personal meeting to provide you with the necessary information.
Membership pricing
Behind the scenes of our incubator, there is a dedicated team working hard to provide a range of services. Our facilities offer modern amenities, excellent equipment, and various technologies that you can utilize when needed. Naturally, these services have a value that needs to be financed. However, we also require a small contribution from our members. The monthly affiliation fee is set at CZK 500.
How to apply?
If you’re interested in becoming a member of Point One, the first step is to go through our admission process. This process helps us evaluate the viability and potential of your project or business plan to determine if Point One is the right fit for its development.
Our admission process is typically conducted twice a year, in both spring and autumn, as part of our recruitment drive for new members. Allow us to walk you through the entire process.
To kick off your application, simply fill out the provided web form. This form will gather essential information about you and your project or business plan. Your application serves as crucial background material for the Point One Council, which will ultimately decide whether your project meets the criteria for acceptance into our business incubator.
Once we’ve received your application, we will invite you to a consultation with a representative from Point One. During this meeting, we’ll have the opportunity to delve into important matters that may not have been covered in the application form. It’s also an excellent chance to gain a deeper understanding of our work and address any questions you may have.
All submitted applications will then be reviewed by the Point One Council, comprising subject matter experts from ČZU and professionals from the business community. Based on the applications and personal presentations, the Council will determine which projects will be supported and whether they are best suited for incubation or acceleration. New members will be invited to the First Day with Point One where they will receive essential information, familiarize themselves with existing members, and launch their business projects.
To begin your journey as a Point One member, the first step is to fill in our application form. If you’re interested in joining our community, don’t hesitate.