Linn Kretzschmar

Update: 2025-05-05

Description

From Business Research to Particle Physics

Linn’s path into deep tech began in business and innovation management, including time at Vienna University of Economics and Business. Her initial exposure to CERN came through an EU-funded Marie Curie research project focused on valorizing technologies for future particle accelerators. That unique intersection—cutting-edge science meets real-world applications—eventually led her to join CERN full-time in 2022.

What is CERN Venture Connect?

Launched in late 2023, CERN Venture Connect gives startups access to cutting-edge technologies, expert support, and a curated partner network across Europe and beyond. The goal is simple: turn advanced scientific tools into commercial solutions with real impact. The program is designed to support both internal CERN teams and external deep tech entrepreneurs.

CERN’s Technology Domains

Startups engaging with CERN can tap into technologies across three key domains:

Accelerators: Superconducting magnets, radiofrequency cavities, and ultra-high vacuum systems
Detectors: Microelectronics, sensors, and precision instrumentation
Digital: Distributed data systems, AI for real-time processing, and tools that manage 20TB/sec of sensor data
These tools, originally designed for particle physics, are now finding applications in manufacturing, sustainability, health tech, and consumer goods.

Founder-Friendly Licensing & Nonprofit Incentives

CERN offers non-equity, royalty-based licenses to startups. There’s no cost until your startup generates more than €1 million in revenue, at which point CERN takes 2% of revenues to reinvest in R&D and internal innovation grants. The priority isn’t profit—it’s impact and dissemination, aligned with CERN’s public mandate.

From Lasers to Avocados: Real Use Cases

A standout example: Dutch startup Inphocal, incubated via HighTechXL, uses CERN’s structured laser beam to mark curved surfaces—like Coke bottles or fruit—without damaging the product or using ink. Originally developed for precision alignment in particle accelerators, the tech is now powering high-speed, sustainable printing solutions in consumer goods.

How the Program Works

Startups apply via the CERN Venture Connect website, selecting relevant technologies and submitting a business case. CERN assesses technical fit and commercial viability, often in collaboration with its partner network of:

50+ organizations across VCs, accelerators, legal support, and national innovation hubs
Support includes expert mentorship, hardware prototyping, and investor matchmaking
Acceptance is selective: 40 applications led to 5 startups in the first year.

Not Just a Logo: Avoiding Misalignment

Linn emphasizes that the goal is not vanity partnerships or logo-stacking. Startups must show clear technical alignment and commercial rationale. If existing commercial technologies can solve your challenge, CERN encourages you to use those instead. Their technologies are intended to fill gaps in the market, not compete with industry.

Internal Incubation and Spinouts

Roughly 40% of the startups in the program come from inside CERN—scientists exploring entrepreneurship as a career path. The other 60% are external founders, many of whom discover CERN technologies through events, venture builders, or deep tech networks.

Why Events Like Hello Tomorrow Matter

As one of the world's top physics labs, CERN isn’t always top-of-mind for startup founders. That’s why events like Hello Tomorrow are essential for visibility and discovery. “We have the tech and the founder-friendly terms—we just need startups to come,” says Linn. You’ll also find them at Web Summit, Hello Tomorrow Turkey, and other innovation gatherings throughout the year.