Up to two million euros in funding for deeptech startups
Deep-tech innovations are considered a key lever for tackling central societal challenges such as climate protection and resource efficiency. At the same time, the path from research to application is often long and demanding: technology-based startups require significant time, capital, robust networks, and an innovation-friendly environment. This is precisely where a new funding program from the Joachim Herz Foundation comes in.
Two model non-profit projects will be funded to structurally improve the framework for deep-tech startups. The foundation will provide up to €1,000,000 for each project for a period of up to three years. The aim is to address existing gaps in the German innovation system – for example, in the integration of science, industry, and capital, in supporting spin-offs, and in the further development of regional and thematic innovation ecosystems.
The focus is on projects that develop and implement new programs and formats for deeptech entrepreneurship, strengthen networks between science, industry, capital, and other stakeholders, and accelerate knowledge transfer processes. Furthermore, innovation ecosystems are to be professionalized, and access to infrastructure and resources, particularly in early development phases, is to be improved.
The funding is aimed at organizations in Germany that work at the interface of science, knowledge transfer, and innovation and already have experience in deeptech entrepreneurship. This includes universities, tax-exempt research institutions, public corporations, and non-profit organizations with a deeptech focus.
The application period runs until June 14, 2026. Following written applications, selected finalists will be invited to present their projects in Hamburg at the end of August. The funding agreements are expected to be finalized by the end of 2026.
Source: medizin.nrw
