EXIST Transfer of Research I programme

The EXIST Transfer of Research I programme provides crucial early-stage funding and support for ambitious, research-based startup projects facing significant development challenges. It systematically guides ventures through an initial phase focused on transforming scientific discoveries into viable technical products and processes. This involves validating initial research, developing a robust business plan, and preparing for formal company registration and operation, establishing a solid foundation for future growth.

This government-backed initiative, primarily overseen by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) and co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF), addresses the critical gap between academic innovation and market readiness. It was established to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem within universities and non-university research institutions, recognizing the profound economic potential locked within complex scientific advancements that require dedicated nurturing to commercialize.

The program serves teams of scientists, university graduates, and students poised to launch technology-oriented, knowledge-intensive businesses. Its long-term vision is to accelerate the transfer of groundbreaking research into successful enterprises, ultimately enhancing Germany's innovation landscape. By facilitating the commercialization of deep-tech ideas, EXIST Transfer of Research I aims to cultivate a new generation of high-potential startups ready for subsequent phases of funding and market entry.