Webpage_Membership Categories – Healthy Ideas, Healthy Returns

Healthy Ideas, Healthy Returns (HIHR) is a network of organisations and Life Sciences professionals from knowledge institutes, investors, industry partners, spin-off initiatives, and expert service providers across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

Together, they position HIHR as a leader in early-stage healthcare venture development. We welcome as members all stakeholders who are motivated to help bridge the gap between academic research, investors, and entrepreneurs, accelerating promising business ideas for the benefit of patients and society.

We distinct 4 member categories

Public Research Organisations (PRO’s)

Over 95% of technology transfer offices (TTOs) in the Human Health and Life Sciences sector are active members, leveraging our network to support their emerging spin-offs. We empower these academic entrepreneurs through expert-led sessions, pitch training, and webinars that provide practical, actionable feedback.

Investors & industry partners

Investors join our network for exclusive, early-stage access to the Benelux region’s most promising human health innovations. We provide a unique “sneak peek” into emerging spin-offs from all major research institutes, ensuring they are vetted and coached before they take the stage. Through our informal “Quickfire” sessions and events, members gain high-quality deal flow and the opportunity to engage with investment-ready founders at the earliest possible stage.

Competence providers

Service providers gain exclusive access to the critical transition from R&D to market-ready startups. By building direct lines to Benelux technology transfer offices (TTOs), members can engage with high-potential spin-offs at their inception. Beyond early-stage project flow, the HIHR network facilitates strategic connections with leading VCs and industry giants, positioning your organization as a key partner in transforming academic research into medical breakthroughs.

Spin-off initiatives

Joining the network provides spin-offs with a direct bridge from the lab to the market. Founders gain exclusive access to a premier circle of investors and industry partners, complemented by intensive, tailor-made coaching. Through hands-on feedback and specialized pitch preparation, ventures are perfectly positioned to engage with leading medical innovation experts and secure critical growth milestones.