The Startup Center at the University of Tübingen can look back on a successful 2024, recording a funding rate of 100% and thus exceeding the national average for startup initiatives.
Six startups were able to convince the experts with their ideas. Technology-oriented and knowledge-based start-ups are supported within the framework of EXIST funding through non-material and financial assistance. The funding opportunities include
- 'EXIST start-up grant': financial support and individual coaching for start-up teams over twelve months with an average of €120,000 in funding. The nationwide funding rate for the start-up grant is 55% (according to Project Management Jülich, 2024).
- 'EXIST Research Transfer I': Support for research-based start-ups with high-risk development work over 18-36 months with funding of approx. €250,000 in material resources and funding for up to four full-time positions.
- 'EXIST-Women': Special funding for female founders with a three-month grant and a twelve-month qualification program, offered for the first time this year.
From med-tech to space technology
In 2024, 'Elastheal' received the research transfer with funding of €1.5 million. The aim of the MedTech start-up is to restore the body's own skin elasticity, among other things to improve wound healing and reduce scarring. The following five projects also received an EXIST start-up grant:
- 'Biocompile', a tech-bio startup that uses AI to optimize the design process of microorganisms.
- 'envima', a start-up that offers data-driven solutions for greater sustainability
- 'pi_optimal', an open-source platform that makes reinforcement learning accessible, efficient and scalable.
- 'Praevenio', a digital learning platform that focuses on the psychological health of children and young people
- 'Yugen Space', a startup that uses space technology to create accurate nutrient and mineral maps.
