New initiative: Drug Repurposing Venture Challenge launches
ZonMw, in collaboration with the Top Sector Life Sciences & Health (Health~Holland) and FAST, has launched a new initiative: the Drug Repurposing Venture Challenge. This innovative program challenges researchers to transform scientific breakthroughs in drug repurposing into robust plans, ready for market entry and patient benefit – all within three months. Deadline for team registration: May 20, 2025.
About the challenge
The Drug Repurposing Venture Challenge is designed to guide teams of researchers and early-stage entrepreneurs in the life sciences to develop solid business plans. Participants will be supported throughout the process by industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs.
Why drug repurposing?
Drug repurposing—using existing medications for new therapeutic purposes—promises faster, more cost-effective treatments, particularly for (rare) diseases that currently lack sufficient treatment options. This approach aligns with the core objectives of FAST and ZonMw’s Responsible Use of Medicines program.
ZonMw and FAST are actively facilitating multiple initiatives to ensure repurposed medicines reach patients responsibly. These initiatives include funding rounds, such as the ZonMw Drug Repurposing grants, and collaboration on the European drug repurposing initiative REMEDi4ALL. FAST further collaborates with its partnership hub RARE-NL to enhance knowledge and develop practical examples of drug repurposing.
With this Venture Challenge, ZonMw’s Responsible Use of Medicines program and FAST aim to practically demonstrate that drug repurposing can fulfill its promise of being faster, more affordable, and accessible to patients in a socially responsible manner. This goal is achieved by adhering to the principles of socially responsible licensing.
What participants can expect
Participants in the Drug Repurposing Venture Challenge will:
- Engage in two intensive, 3-day boot camps
- Participate in dedicated coaching sessions
- Compete on a final event day to present their business plans
The process is facilitated by GameChanger Challenge BV, whose expert team guides participants every step of the way.
Prize
A jury composed of seasoned entrepreneurs and investors will select one winning team to receive a €20,000 prize. The winner is free to allocate this funding toward further development of their drug repurposing concept.
Who should participate?
The Drug Repurposing Venture Challenge is intended for researchers and early-stage entrepreneurs in the Life Sciences who want to create a spin-off company. The program specifically focuses on the repurposing of pharmaceutical products—existing medications investigated for promising new indications not yet registered for that use.
Team requirements:
- Teams must consist of 3 to 4 members.
- Full attendance is required: Teams must jointly participate in all boot camps, coaching sessions, and fully engage in developing their venture plan.
- Time commitment: Participants should anticipate investing time from July through September 2025.
Registration and selection
- Registration Deadline: May 20, 2025, at 14:00.
- Application Process: Teams apply via the online application form.
- Selection: Up to 6 teams whose proposals align best with the program’s goals will be selected.
- Participation Fees: €2,000 per team of 3 members (One additional member is €500,-)
Further information
For more details, including criteria and timeline specifics, visit the FAST website.
Contact: For inquiries regarding registration or general questions, please reach out to Chretien Herben at GameChanger Challenge BV via the online contact form.
Date: May 1, 2025
Source: Health~Holland
