Ghent University is proud to launch the Fast Lane - a transparent and efficient pathway for researchers who want to turn their cutting-edge research into social and economic impact.
On March 28, 2025, Ghent University's Board of Governors officially approved the Fast Lane scheme. This new approach, developed by the TechTransfer Office as part of the IOF-TTO Strategic Plan 2024-2028, offers UGent researchers a fast, clear and proportional path to spin-off creation.
The Fast Lane aims not only to speed up the incorporation process, but also to simplify it, reduce costs and minimize legal and financial uncertainties.
What makes the Fast Lane special?
The scheme allows spin-off teams to make use of predefined standard conditions based on years of experience and tailored to the realities of academic valorization. Avoiding time-intensive negotiation processes allows researchers to concentrate fully on developing their companies.
Features of the Fast Lane model:
- A limited, non-dilutive equity interest for UGent
- A fixed, low royalty on sales
- Standardized license and shareholder agreements
- Clear ground rules around intellectual property, patents and governance
- An alternative track under the name Fast Lane Mini, for smaller-scale spin-offs
An appropriate path for every UGent entrepreneur
The Fast Lane Mini is intended for spin-offs with limited scale or focus, where equity participation is less appropriate. In this track, UGent is only compensated through a low royalty and a success fee in case of sale or acquisition.
Thus, both ambitious deep-tech start-ups and social niche projects can count on an adapted framework tailored to their needs and potential.
UGent strengthens its ecosystem for valorization
The Fast Lane aligns with UGent's broader vision of entrepreneurship and valorization. It comes on top of existing initiatives such as IOF funding, pre-seed investments, mentoring and collaboration with key players in the Flemish innovation landscape such as VLAIO, VOKA and imec.istart.
Since 1982, Ghent University has helped establish more than 150 spin-offs based on academic research within the AUGent community. Thanks to the Fast Lane, the next generations of spin-offs will be able to start faster and more efficiently.
Want to know more?
Are you a UGent researcher with an interest in a spin-off and want to find out if the Fast Lane is a suitable track for you?
Take a look at our intranet page about the Fast Lane and discover everything there is to know! 🔒