SEE UP Mentor Academy is a specialised training and capacity building programme designed to develop a high-quality pool of startup mentors from academia, industry, and the investment community. It targets professionals who want to support innovative ventures across all development stages, from research-based startups to market-validated, scaling companies, with a particular focus on high-impact, execution-driven mentorship. The programme equips participants with the knowledge, frameworks, and tools to guide science- and tech-based startups through strategic inflection points. Core modules cover business model evolution, product-market fit, early and growth-stage fundraising, founder psychology, and IP strategy. Real startup case studies and scenario-based learning provide mentors with insight into both early-stage risk navigation and late-stage scaling demands. Participants are also trained in innovation coaching, venture dynamics, and founder accountability. Sessions are delivered in a hybrid format, combining in-person modules in Belgrade with online participation for international professionals. The programme is ideal for university professors, corporate innovation leads, experienced founders, angel investors, and ecosystem professionals seeking to engage with high-potential startups in a structured, impactful way. Graduates may be matched with SEE UP or EIC-backed startups in need of strategic mentorship. The expected outcome is a certified mentor equipped to support ventures at various maturity levels, empowering founders with the strategic, operational, and psychological support required to grow resilient, investment-ready companies in competitive global markets.
Standard programme fee: €3750; Reduced rate for EIC beneficiaries and academic partners: €3000.
This covers an 8 week hybrid training cycle, including expert-led modules, real startup case sessions, mentoring tools, and a formal mentor certification.
Optional follow-up: €2500 for a 6-month structured placement with an SEE UP or EIC-backed startup, enabling certified mentors to apply their skills directly in the field.
Participation is based on availability. Special conditions may apply for EIC-related discounts or follow-on mentor matchmaking.
Coaching & Mentoring
Are you in doubt if this is the right service for you, or do you want to get more information about the service? Get in touch with the EIC Partner providing this service through this query form!
Is this the service you are looking for? If so, you can apply to the service through EIC ACCESS+! Eligible applicants can also get co-funding through the EIC ACCESS+ initiative. Find out more on the project webiste.
Receive up to €60,000 in grants, covering up to 50% of the costs, to access specialised services from the EIC Service Catalogue. Learn more on the EIC ACCESS+ website.