Debrecen4U
December 9, 2025
The University of Debrecen’s research utilization and technology transfer company has been awarded support
UD Catapult, the University of Debrecen’s research utilization and technology transfer company, has been awarded HUF 200 million in state funding. The company acts as a bridge between the university and market players. The funding will support innovative basic research within the university, with results later expected to be commercialized.
At a briefing held at the University of Debrecen’s Innovation Center, details of the Proof of Concept grant were presented. The program of the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office primarily supports university research in engineering, IT, and life sciences that can bring social and economic benefits once introduced to the market.
The resources are intended to help researchers demonstrate the feasibility of their concepts. As Kristóf Nagyi, knowledge utilization manager at the National Innovation Agency, explained, “Such research processes are often lengthy and vulnerable, as projects at this stage are not yet mature enough to attract sufficient funding. The Proof of Concept grant aims to bridge this gap.”
UD Catapult successfully applied for the state support, enabling HUF 200 million to be directed toward research utilization. The business development company was established last year with the support of the National Innovation Agency as part of a nationwide initiative to create university technology transfer companies. UD Catapult is considered a pioneer in this field.
According to managing director Ágnes Barbara Berde, the company’s primary goal is to market and mediate university knowledge, scientific services, and research services to market participants. Chancellor Zoltán Bács emphasized that while the model shift will show significant results in ten years, it requires a change in mindset: “Universities have not traditionally been set up to bring their knowledge to the market, either on their own or with the help of partners. Learning this methodology is essential.”
Researchers at the University of Debrecen can apply for the HUF 200 million funding pool, with proposals to be evaluated by a review committee composed of experts bringing both academic and market experience.
Source: dehir.hu | Photo credit: Facebook Debrecen városa
