The only place that covers the entire founder journey, backed by Europe's largest innovation network.
- #1 in Europe ranked #1 European Startup Hub by the Financial Times, 3 years running
- €5B+ Capital raised by our startups
- ± 25% of all German VC funding goes to startups in our ecosystem
What We Offer
Everything a founder needs to succeed
Equity-free founder programs
Equity-free programs designed for where you’re at, whether that’s developing your first prototype, market entry, or scaling commercial growth. Specialized partner programs with industry leaders like NVIDIA and Microsoft in the fields of physical AI, space, and food and agriculture give founders the experts, networks, and ideal investors to scale.
Funding Partners
From your first check to growth, our pre-seed fund, UnternehmerTUM Funding for Innovators, and capital firm, UnternehmerTUM Venture Capital, back the boldest bets in deep tech before anyone else. Our Capital Access team works with investors every day, connecting them to promising startups across Europe.
Network Access
Behind every opportunity is an advantage only UnternehmerTUM can offer: our innovation ecosystem. We connect founders with personal introductions to Europe's leading network of 250+ investors, 300+ companies, and 500+ mentors.
Specialized partner programs for scaleups
Funding Partners
Network Access
You’ll know us by first name. Our network is vast, but our venture managers and industry mentors are with you every step of the way, doing whatever it takes to open the right door at the right time to help you succeed.
250+ Investors
Munich is ranked #1 in Europe for startup investment. We unlock access to this capital via connections to VCs and business angels who are actively backing deep tech. Startups in our ecosystem have raised over €5B in capital.
500+ Mentors
Get ready for more than a coffee chat. Our mentors guide you through our innovation network with the right introductions, and are ready to help you with advice on contracts, investments, and scaling in your specific industry. These relationships are personal, and often last long after the program is over.
Hear directly from our mentors about the support they provide.
300+ Companies
Connect with companies like Görg, Deutsche Bank, and KPMG for pilots, first customers, and co-innovation opportunities.
Rise Europe
A strong Network of the Leading Startup Hubs in Europe
FAQ
Do you take equity?
No. Our founder programs are completely equity-free. You keep 100% of your company.
Do you accept solo founders?
No, all programs require a team of two or more founders.
How do I know which program is right for me?
It depends on what you need support with.
UnternehmerTUM Incubator supports you in validating your idea, building your MVP, finding early traction, and getting investment-ready.
UnternehmerTUM Accelerator supports you in fine tuning your business model to achieve commercial growth and helps you build the organizational structure you need to grow fast.
How competitive is the application process?
Our programs are selective. We're looking for teams with real technical depth and ambition. That said, we evaluate every application, so it's worth applying if you think you fit.
Can startups outside Munich or Germany apply?
Yes. We work with international founders, and Rise Europe connects scaleups with partners across the continent.
For both founder programs, there are key dates that you must be in Munich. The rest of the program is hybrid and founders can participate from anywhere.
What happens after I submit my application?
Our team reviews every application and invites a select group of applicants to pitch their startup to the team. After pitch week, we follow up with every applicant and let them know if they made it into the program or not.
Timelines vary by program, so please check each program page for specifics.
How long do the programs run?
It depends on the program and track, with most programs running for 3 months. You'll find exact timelines on each program page.
Is there a cost to join?
No, every resource we offer startups is free.
Do I need to be affiliated with TUM to apply?
Not at all. Our programs are open to deep tech founders from anywhere.