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Different Levels of Technology Readiness: Ready for Market?


Understanding Technology Readiness Levels and What It Takes to Join MAX!mize





You want to bring your Max Planck research into the business world? Thinking about founding a start-up? The key question is: Is your technology ready for the market?


Before you can attract funding, build a product, or even apply for incubation programs like MAX!mize, it’s often crucial to know where your technology stands.


That’s where the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) comes in – a scale used internationally to measure how close a technology is to practical use.



What Are TRLs?


TRLs provide a structured way to assess technological maturity – from the first idea to a product ready to hit the market. Here's a quick breakdown of the 9 levels:


  1. TRL 1 – Basic principles observed

  2. TRL 2 – Concept and potential application formulated

  3. TRL 3 – Proof of Concept (PoC) achieved through experimental validation

  4. TRL 4 – Technology demonstrated in a lab environment

  5. TRL 5 – Validated in a relevant setting

  6. TRL 6 – Prototype demonstrated in a realistic environment

  7. TRL 7 – System prototype tested in operational conditions

  8. TRL 8 – Technology fully developed and qualified

  9. TRL 9 – Technology successfully used on the market

The TRL framework helps you decide when to talk to investors, build a prototype, or scale production.


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TRL Requirements for Joining MAX!mize


To participate in the MAX!mize incubation program as a technology-based start-up from the Max Planck ecosystem, your technology must have reached at least TRL 3 – meaning a verified Proof of Concept (PoC) is required.


For all other start-up projects, an initial Proof of Concept is sufficient to apply.


This ensures that:


  • The core idea is technically feasible

  • You’re ready to begin translating it toward application

  • There’s a real foundation for developing a start-up



How to Move Up the TRL Ladder


If you’re not yet at TRL 3, or want to push further, here’s how you can start:


  • Document your existing results

  • Design next-stage experiments for lab or real-world validation

  • Talk to early users to test relevance and usability

  • Get expert support for technical and business development

  • Explore funding opportunities aimed at TRL growth

Each TRL step comes with new challenges. Make sure your team or partners match the stage you’re in.


Let’s Get Your Technology Ready



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At MAX!mize, we support early-stage start-ups on their journey from lab to market. Whether you’re working toward your first Proof of Concept or already testing a prototype, we can help you clarify your next steps.


Reach out to the MAX!mize team now and find out if you’re ready to join the program – or how to get there.

 
 
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