O BIP Proof is the proof-of-concept development support program of the University of Porto.
Its main goal is to fund proof-of-concept projects aimed at stimulating key value-creation steps that promote the socio-economic valorization of promising research results.
To achieve this, the supported projects may include the development of technical feasibility prototypes, in-vitro/in-vivo testing, feasibility and market studies, or other activities that add value to the research outcomes and enhance their attractiveness for potential transfer to existing companies or spin-offs to be created for their socio-economic exploitation.
The program was launched by U. Porto Innovation in 2018, with support from the U.Norte Inova project. That same year, the Amadeu Dias Foundation (FAD) joined the initiative and has remained a partner in every edition since.
Other prominent entities have also supported different editions of BIP Proof. These include Santander Universidades in 2020 and J. Pereira da Cruz in both 2021 and 2022.
In 2024, Caixa Geral de Depósitos became a partner of the initiative.
Applications to BIP Proof open once a year. This year’s calendar is available here.
