Build your company with imec.istart in Germany
Join world's #1 university-linked accelerator program — now landing in Germany.
What we do
Let's accelerate your business!
Building on a proven track record of supporting more than 350 technology startups across Europe, imec.istart Germany helps ambitious DeepTech founders transform breakthrough technologies into globally competitive businesses through a unique combination of public funding, tailored acceleration services, and access to a world-class innovation ecosystem.
Are you an ambitious early-stage DeepTech startup?
Join the next cohort of imec.istart Germany and become part of one of Europe's leading startup acceleration communities.
What we offer:
- €50-100k in non-dilutive public funding
- A tailored 12–18 month acceleration program
- €50k worth of in-kind global accelerator services
- Personalized coaching from experienced entrepreneurs, investors and industry experts
- Access to the global imec and imec.istart ecosystem
- Introductions to international investors, corporates, customers and strategic partners
- International growth support to prepare for fundraising and global expansion
- Potential follow-up investments by imec.istart-related funds
- A community of 800+ technology founders and alumni across Europe
Backed by imec — Europe’s leading R&D and innovation hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies.
Why imec.istart Germany?
imec.istart Germany combines public funding with global acceleration expertise. Building on the success of imec.istart's internationally recognized programs, we help early-stage DeepTech startups validate their technology, accelerate commercial growth, and scale internationally. As a long-term growth partner, we provide the capital, expertise and network founders need to build globally successful companies.
Our selection process
Who are we looking for?
imec.istart Germany welcomes startups who have a
- Product in applied deeptech
- Working proof of concept
- Complementary founding team
- Headquarter in Germany
- Business activities in Baden-Württemberg*
* The public grant funding is provided by the State of Baden-Württemberg. As a result, funded startups are expected to establish and demonstrate meaningful commercial activities in Baden-Württemberg. Your company does not need to be headquartered in Baden-Württemberg to participate.
How it works
When joining the imec.istart Accelerator program in Germany, you can expect the following:
Access to COACHING
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Personal coaching by your Venture Acceleration Manager, a sparring partner and trusted contact on a day-to-day basis
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A broad range of workshops and one-on-one follow-up tracks, given by top-notch experts
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Our in-house developed istart platform, the tool to monitor your progress
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A diverse network of experienced industry experts
Access to FINANCE
- €50,000 in non-dilutive, non-repayable grant*
- An audience of 100+ investors at our Investors Day
- Our continuous support in order to secure that next funding round
*: This funding is made possible by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs, Skilled Crafts and Tourism and supports commercial activities that create a tangible connection to and impact within Baden-Württemberg.
Access to TECHNOLOGY
- Imec, a globally recognized R&D and innovation hub
- A panel of imec domain experts to challenge your technical pitch
- An imec.istart liaison to guide you through imec’s collaboration opportunities
Access to COMMUNITY
- A community of 300+ startups and like-minded tech entrepreneurs
- Office space support in Baden-Württemberg
- A long list of software and service deals, tailored to startup needs
- A wide range of various events
Access to TALENT
- Our support in the war for talent
- A dedicated Teamdynamics officer: focusing on the human aspect of entrepreneurship and offering 1-1 wellbeing sessions
- Various ways to strengthen your founding team (expert in residence, co-founder events, ... )
- Our guidance in developing your own talents that help your startup succeed
Access to REVENUE
- Our broad network of corporate partners eager to get to know you
- A dedicated internationalization officer, your advisor through our catalogue of partnerships, services and missions around the globe
- A large network of international accelerators, experts and partners to help you touch base in new markets
Access to COACHING
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Personal coaching by your Venture Acceleration Manager, a sparring partner and trusted contact on a day-to-day basis
-
A broad range of workshops and one-on-one follow-up tracks, given by top-notch experts
-
Our in-house developed istart platform, the tool to monitor your progress
-
A diverse network of experienced industry experts
You'll be in good company
Some notable startups that have followed our acceleration program
