The Spinoff Prize 2027
A €30,000 global award and a profile in Nature for university spinouts built on great research.
What it is
The Spinoff Prize is a global award for spinout companies founded on research in the life sciences or physical sciences, including digital approaches such as AI, deep learning, neuromorphic computing and quantum computing. It's run by Nature Awards in partnership with Merck, and it welcomes applications from anywhere in the world, from founders of all genders and roles, and from companies in the early stages of establishment.
It's as much about visibility as money. Longlisted spinouts are named as "ones to watch" in an online special report in Nature. Finalists are profiled in that report by expert science writers and pitch live at the Curious2027 – Future Insight™ conference in Germany, where one winner receives €30,000 to invest in research and development. Every eligible applicant gets a free online ticket to the conference.
Applications are judged equally on the science, the market opportunity, the plan and team, and the impact on society.
Building an Oxford spinout? You'll need supporting approval from the University, so talk to Oxford University Innovation early.
Details
| Applications close | 11.59pm UTC, Wednesday 7 October 2026 |
| Prize | €30,000 for the overall winner, to invest in R&D in the life or physical sciences |
| What else is on offer | Finalists: a profile in Nature, a pitch at Curious2027 in Germany (7–8 July 2027) with travel reimbursed, and use of The Spinoff Prize mark. Longlist: listed in Nature as "ones to watch". All eligible applicants: a free online conference ticket |
| Who it's for | Spinouts formed to commercialise university or research institute research in the life or physical sciences, registered as a separate legal entity on or after 7 October 2021 |
| Requirements | The applicant must be an employee of the spinout and have supporting approval from the university where the research was done. Finalists must be available for 7–8 July 2027. Companies providing healthcare services to the general public aren't eligible |
| Key dates | Applications close 7 Oct 2026 · Assessment October 2026–April 2027 · Finalists notified April 2027 · Final 7–8 July 2027 |
| How to apply | Through the online application form. Read the terms and conditions first |
| Organiser | Nature Awards, in partnership with Merck. Shared by Oxentia |
Apply
€30,000 and a profile in Nature for your spinout.
Complete entries must be submitted by 11.59pm UTC on Wednesday 7 October.
