Superclass

Startup SuperNova begins with an intensive Superclass, where participants receive training and guidance in developing an 18-month action plan for their projects. Experts and experienced entrepreneurs share their knowledge and insights. The Startup SuperNova Superclass is open to everyone for registration and is a free course focused on business plan development. The course provides a strong advantage when applying to the Startup SuperNova accelerator.

About the Accelerator

The goal of the Startup SuperNova accelerator is to accelerate the growth of startups and make them attractive investment opportunities. Participants receive education and training in developing their business ideas, along with access to a group of experts, including experienced entrepreneurs and investors. Startup SuperNova begins on June 15 - 16 with an intensive two-day Superclass workshop, which serves as a preparatory course for both the accelerator and the application process. Following a thorough application process, up to ten teams are selected to participate in the six-week accelerator program running from August 4 to September 18. The accelerator is operated by KLAK - Icelandic Startups, which has decades of experience running accelerator programs and supporting startups. During the program, participants receive focused workshops, lectures, mentor meetings, and presentation coaching. Startup SuperNova then concludes with a grand Investor Day on September 18.

About Us

The Startup SuperNova accelerator was founded in 2020 and is today one of the best-known entrepreneurial initiatives in Iceland. The program is managed by KLAK - Icelandic Startups, which for many years has supported the development of business ideas and brought together a diverse group of stakeholders with value creation as a guiding principle. KLAK helps startups grow both domestically and internationally by accelerating their development and connecting them with experts, investors, and other key stakeholders. KLAK has long since established itself as a key player in Iceland’s innovation support ecosystem.

Startup SuperNova is made possible through the support of key partners:

Nova, one of Iceland’s largest telecommunications companies, supports the project and contributes its expertise in telecommunications and technological innovation to provide participants with insight into real market needs.

Huawei, a leading global technology company, supports Startup SuperNova and opens doors to an international network and technical expertise that can help Icelandic startups compete in the global market.

Gróska, at Gróska, you will find a dynamic ecosystem of entrepreneurs and professionals working across a wide range of innovation-related challenges in all areas of value creation.

Startup SuperNova operates in the heart of Gróska Science Park - a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in Iceland. The building has become one of the main gathering places for Iceland’s innovation community and houses numerous startups, funds, and support organizations.

Mentors

One of the most valuable aspects of the Startup SuperNova accelerator is access to the KLAK - Icelandic Startups mentoring system. The structure is based on the philosophy of MIT Venture Mentoring Service, which has developed the methodology for more than twenty years and is an internationally recognized approach.

KLAK’s mentoring service focuses on connecting entrepreneurs with experienced mentors from diverse sectors of the business community who provide professional guidance, feedback, and support in a safe and constructive environment. Mentors within KLAK VMS are selected based on their experience, expertise, and ability to support the needs of startups at different stages of development. All mentors have received training through MIT and KLAK.

Startups

Startup SuperNova is a launchpad for startups and a unique platform for developing innovation projects. The accelerator is built on internationally proven methodology and KLAK - Icelandic Startups’ many years of experience supporting entrepreneurs.

The results speak for themselves: Over 50% of companies that have participated in Startup SuperNova are still operating today, and participants have collectively secured more than 2 billion ISK in investments and grants. Among the well-known companies that have participated in the accelerator are PLAIO, Livey, Keeps, Swapp Agency, Stubbur, and Opus Futura, companies that entered the accelerator with an idea and left with a clear strategy, a strong network, and a refined business plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Startup SuperNova for?

We are looking for strong teams with smart and creative solutions that have the potential to compete in international markets. The accelerator is suitable both for newly established startups and for teams within larger, more established companies that want to further develop a new idea or technology. Special emphasis is placed on teams developing solutions related to the telecommunications sector and 5G technology.

When reviewing applications, consideration is given to the uniqueness and innovation of the project, the target market, the composition of the team, as well as the participants’ interest and willingness to step outside their comfort zone and work purposefully toward their goals.

Attendance and Participation Requirements

Each spot in Startup SuperNova is valuable, and we therefore place clear expectations on those offered the opportunity to participate.

The accelerator takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays over six weeks (August 4 – September 18, excluding one week during the TechBBQ conference in Copenhagen). Active participation and attendance from all teams throughout the program is expected. We strongly encourage participants to spend time with the group and take advantage of all the opportunities the accelerator offers because much learning, networking, and value are created through interaction outside of formal program sessions.

All teams must also prepare for and participate in Investor Day on September 18 in Reykjavík, which is the accelerator’s final event.

Is the accelerator also for companies already in operation?

It is not a requirement that companies be newly founded, as new ideas are often created within established companies. Such companies can send teams to Startup SuperNova to further develop a new idea or technology.

What does it cost to participate?

Participation in the accelerator is free of charge.

Is my business idea safe in your hands?

Yes. All applications are treated as confidential information.

Where is Startup SuperNova located?

Startup SuperNova operates in the heart of Gróska Science Park, where you will find a vibrant hub of innovation and entrepreneurship in Iceland, close to KLAK, the universities, Landspítalinn University Hospital, and many of the country’s leading innovation companies. This location provides unique opportunities for experimentation, knowledge sharing, and value creation.

Is my business idea safe in your hands?

Yes. All applications are treated as confidential information.

What’s included?

Participants gain access to a large group of leading experts and numerous opportunities to strengthen their network and promote their ideas. We offer a packed schedule throughout the accelerator focused on further developing business ideas and bringing products to market.

The Application Process

Superclass is a two-day preparatory workshop held June 15 - 16 at Gróska and is open to anyone interested in applying to the accelerator. Participation is not a requirement for applying, but it is excellent preparation and provides a strong advantage. During Superclass, teams have the opportunity to work on their 18-month action plan and get to know the accelerator and its partners.

After Superclass, teams are given time to submit their completed applications. A group of experienced experts reviews and scores all applications. The highest-scoring teams are invited to interviews, and ultimately up to ten teams are selected to participate in the accelerator.

More Questions?

Feel free to contact us by email at hello@klak.is