Applications Now Open

Snjallræði is a university accelerator for social innovation. It gives entrepreneurial teams, research teams, startups and aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to work purposefully on developing ideas, products, services or projects that address the challenges of our time. The accelerator is aimed in particular at university students and staff, including scientists, research teams, entrepreneurs and startups emerging from the academic community. University-affiliated projects take priority in the selection process, but Snjallræði is also open to teams outside the universities who are working on ideas with social value.

In Snjallræði, participants are guided through a focused development process by specialists, advisors and mentors from academia, industry and the innovation ecosystem. The accelerator is built on the MIT DesignX methodology, where design thinking, an entrepreneurial approach and critical inquiry are used to help teams sharpen the problem, test solutions and find a realistic path for their next steps.

Taking part in Snjallræði suits teams who want to go further with an idea that matters. It might be a project in its early stages, research with potential for practical application, a startup taking shape, or a solution that has already been tested but needs a clearer direction, network or support in order to grow.

Why apply?

Snjallræði gives teams the time, framework and access to knowledge they need to develop their idea in a purposeful way. Participants get the chance to work with specialists, meet mentors, get to know other teams and test whether their idea solves a real problem for a clearly defined audience.

What do teams gain from taking part?

Teams receive support in shaping their solution, sharpening its value, building a credible narrative, examining sustainability and impact, and preparing the next steps in developing the project. The goal is for participants to leave the accelerator with a clearer direction, a stronger network and a better foundation for putting their idea into practice.

What sets Snjallræði apart?

What makes Snjallræði distinctive is the connection between academia, industry and social innovation. The accelerator combines research-driven thinking, an execution-focused approach and an emphasis on solutions that can have a positive impact on people, the environment and society. Snjallræði is therefore not only a platform for business ideas, but for projects grounded in knowledge, responsibility and the will to solve real challenges.

Particular emphasis is placed on encouraging people from all over the country to apply. Good ideas and strong teams emerge everywhere, and Snjallræði wants to reach students, staff, researchers and entrepreneurs regardless of location.

Applicants must be part of a team. Teams can be made up of students, university staff, researchers, entrepreneurs, specialists or others who complement one another and want to work together to develop an idea further.

The application deadline is 27 August 2026.