From Opportunity to Pitch-Ready Solution
Startup Launchpad is a flexible program for student teams who want to develop their own entrepreneurial idea from the ground up. You dive into customer research, test your assumptions through prototyping, build a viable business model, and learn to pitch your idea with confidence.
| For whom | Students, PhD students, and aspiring founders, also without TUM enrollment |
|---|---|
| Credits | 6 ECTS (accreditation depends on your study program) |
| Period | October 19, 2026 – February 4, 2027 |
| Format | Seven modules of about two weeks each, self-paced via Moodle |
| Where | Fully remote possible, optional on-site coaching in Munich |
| Teams | 2 to 5 people, team formation in Module 1 |
| Language | English |
Voices From the Community
Startup Launchpad demystified the concept of building a startup for me – we got the momentum and the tools and simply did it.
Schedule for Winter Semester 2026/27
- The kick-off is mandatory. It’s hybrid, but we’d love to see you there in person.
- After that, you work through seven modules of about two weeks each at your own pace on Moodle. At the end of each module, you submit your progress as a team, except for Module 7, which you complete individually.
- Every module includes an optional in-person coaching session and a mandatory peer exchange with other teams.
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October 19, 2026
Kick-off (hybrid, mandatory): networking and team building
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October 19–29, 2026
Module 1: team formation and opportunity discovery
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October 30 – November 12, 2026
Module 2: empathy research
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November 13–26, 2026
Module 3: ideation
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November 27 – December 10, 2026
Module 4: prototyping and testing
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December 11–24, 2026
Module 5: business model and market size
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January 8–21, 2027
Module 6: pitch
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January 22 – February 4, 2027
Module 7: reflection and next steps
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February 3, 2027
Final Event (hybrid): pitches, prototypes, and insights into the UnternehmerTUM ecosystem
Is Startup Launchpad Right for You?
| Good fit if … | Not the right fit if … |
|---|---|
| you want to work on your own startup idea | you prefer to work solo |
| you’re looking for a flexible program where you can set your own pace | you’ve outgrown the incubation stage and are already planning your market entry |
| you want to become part of a startup community | you’re looking for funding within the program |
| you’re comfortable taking initiative and thrive on autonomy | you need close guidance at every step |
By the End of the Program, You Can
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develop and validate your own startup idea using proven methods
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conduct user research and test key assumptions through prototyping
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build a viable business model
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pitch your idea with confidence and prepare for next steps such as the UnternehmerTUM Incubator
Registration
Registration for winter semester 2026/27 is closed. Join our waiting list to be the first to know when registration for summer semester 2027 opens.
- Startup Launchpad is open to everyone. You register individually and don’t need a team yet.
- In Module 1, you form a team of 2 to 5 people, on your own or through our on-site and online matching events.
- After registering, we keep you updated by email about all next steps.
ECTS: TUM students who want to earn ECTS also register on TUMonline for the “Startup Launchpad” exam (MGT000159) or the “Startup Launchpad Pro” exam (MGT100180), starting November 15. Please check with your program coordinator which exam applies to you.
Questions About Startup Launchpad?
Contact the Startup Launchpad team: startup-launchpad@unternehmertum.de.
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Yolanda Marín Ventura
Program Manager
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Bianca Hartmann
Educator
Partners
Supporting Partners
FAQs
Is the Course Open to Everyone?
Yes. Whether you are a student, a PhD student, or an aspiring founder, the course is open to you. You do not have to be enrolled at TUM.
How Many ECTS Do I Get?
Startup Launchpad is accredited for 6 ECTS, but accreditation depends on your study program. Check your study tree or search for Startup Launchpad on TUMonline. If you’re unsure, contact your program coordinator. You can only earn ECTS if you haven’t completed the Business Plan Basic Seminar.
The Course Doesn’t Appear on TUMonline. Am I Still Registered?
Yes, registering through our website secures your spot. To earn ECTS, TUM students also register for the exam on TUMonline during the official period: Startup Launchpad (MGT000159) or Startup Launchpad Pro (MGT100180). Please check with your program coordinator which exam applies to you.
Do I Need an Idea Already?
No. You can start with an idea of your own or discover an opportunity together with your team. Either way, the program guides you step by step to a viable business concept.
Can I Take the Course on My Own?
No. In Module 1, you form a team of 2 to 5 people. If you don’t have a team yet, our matching events help you meet students from all disciplines.
Can I Complete the Course Fully Online?
Yes. All learning materials and assignments are available online, so you can take part from anywhere. If you’re in or near Munich, you can use optional on-site coaching and team sessions.
How Is the Course Graded?
There is no written exam. You submit assignments throughout the semester, which form the basis for your grade.