Question 1

1. What is Protechting?

Accepted Answer

Protechting is a dynamic open innovation program jointly led by Fosun, Fidelidade, Hospital da Luz Learning Health, La Positiva and powered by Fábrica de Startups.  This transformative initiative is specifically tailored to foster innovation for healthtech, insurtech.

Question 2

2. What does Protechting have to offer?

Accepted Answer

Protechting offers startups a unique platform to collaborate with industry leaders in insurance and healthcare, driving innovation and real-world impact. By providing access to expert mentorship, global networking opportunities, and co-developed pilot projects, Protechting empowers startups to scale their solutions and achieve tangible results in key markets.

Question 3

3. What stage should startups be at to apply?

Accepted Answer

We’re looking for startups with at least an MVP, ready for proof of concept.

Question 4

4. In what language will the program be conducted?

Accepted Answer

Protechting’s official language is English. This is an international program with international partners and looking for worldwide startups.

Question 5

5. How many team members can participate in the program?

Accepted Answer

We recommend teams consist of at least 2 and up to 4 members to ensure active participation and effective collaboration.

Question 6

6. Do you take equity in the participating startups?

Accepted Answer

Protechting is a pilot-focused program that aims to foster collaboration between startups and corporates; therefore, no equity is taken.

Question 7

7. What are the selection criteria for participating in the program?

Accepted Answer

The selection process, led by Fábrica de Startups in partnership with a jury of experts, carefully evaluates several key aspects of your application. Our team of evaluators will focus on your product, team, market potential, business model, and overall alignment with each of our partners. Each Protechting track embraces a sustainability mindset, integrated throughout the entire program. While not mandatory, incorporating a sustainability approach can strengthen your application and enhance its evaluation.

Question 8

8. If my startup is selected, what are the next steps?

Accepted Answer

Once your startup completes the initial online application process, a pre-selected group will be invited to participate in the Interview Round to Pitch online.

Startups that perform well in the pitch and align closely with the program’s goals will then be invited to participate in the Bootcamps, where we’ll further evaluate their potential for collaboration with our partners.

Those who demonstrate the strongest alignment will move forward to the Piloting Phase, where they’ll have the opportunity to bring their solutions to life.

Question 9

9. Can I apply with more than one startup?

Accepted Answer

Yes, definitely. You can apply with as many projects as you believe would fit and benefit from the program. Each startup will require its own application.

Question 10

10. Can I apply to more than one track?

Accepted Answer

Yes, indeed. You can apply to Insurtech,Healthtech, Tech-Enabler and Sustainability tracks.

Question 11

11.  Is there any cost associated with participating in the program?

Accepted Answer

The program is completely free for startup participants. There are no costs involved, and no equity is required.

Question 12

12. Can I apply if I’m not based in Lisbon or Portugal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we welcome and encourage applications from startups around the globe.

Question 13

13. What kind of mentorship can I expect from the program?

Accepted Answer

You can expect mentorship from seasoned professionals across the insurance and healthcare industries, along with successful entrepreneurs, investors, and subject matter experts. They will offer valuable guidance, insights, and feedback to help you refine your business model, develop your product, and scale your startup.

Question 14

14. Until when can I apply?

Accepted Answer

Applications open: October 2, 2025
The deadline for applications is December 14, 2025.
Please note that this schedule may be subject to changes at the discretion of the Protechting Team.

Question 15

15. Is the program entirely online?

Accepted Answer

The program features online Bootcamps, but it kicks off with an in-person event, the Matching Day, which will take place in Lisbon.

Question 16

16. Are travel expenses covered for the Matching Day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, startups participating in the Matching Day will receive financial support to help cover travel and accommodation expenses.

Expense Support Details:
Outside Europe Teams: A reimbursement of up to €1250 for teams traveling from outside Europe.
European Teams: A reimbursement of up to €550 for teams traveling from outside Portugal.
Portuguese Teams: A reimbursement of up to €150 for teams traveling from within Portugal.

Question 17

17. Is the Roadshow to China fully paid for?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all expenses for the selected startups during the Roadshow to China will be fully covered by the program.

Question 18

18. Does each startup receive €100K for their pilot?

Accepted Answer

No, the total funding pool for the pilot phase is €100K, which will be distributed across the selected pilots. The exact distribution will depend on the evaluation by various departments at Fidelidade and Luz Saúde.

FAQ