As part of the Meet in Italy for Life Sciences event, the StartUp Bootcamp 2020 initiative was launched to offer start-ups and emerging companies in the life sciences sector the opportunity to undertake an entrepreneurial programme led by expert industry coaches. Specifically, the sectors involved are:

• medical devices;
• ICT applications for health;
• pharmaceuticals;
• nutraceuticals;
• medicine, human health and well-being;
• related supply chains.

Selected start-ups will have the opportunity to refine their business approach and how they communicate their innovative value. The programme will also conclude with the opportunity to deliver a pitch (virtual or hybrid, depending on conditions) to potential corporate partners and international investors on 30 October 2020.

At the end of the event, a jury of experts will award the title of most innovative start-up of MIT4LS2020 and the Special Prize offered by Zcube-OpenZone, intended for the start-up with the best solution in ZCube's areas of interest (digital health, diagnostics, and patient management in the prevention, prediction, and post-acute management phases for neurodegenerative and respiratory diseases).

There are no geographical restrictions for participation; however, the suggested TRL level for the solution proposed in the application is 4.

To submit an application, it was necessary to download the zip file containing the application form, the privacy notice, and the authorisation for the processing of personal data. The completed application form in English (max. 3 pages), the signed PDF of the data processing authorisation, and the relevant pitch (max. 10-12 slides) in PowerPoint 2010-compatible format or PDF had to be sent via email to SUB2020mit4ls@meetinitalylifesciences.eu.

The ranking of applications was published by the end of July, while the programme took place from 31 August to 23 October 2020.