November 3
Ready, Set, Grow
TechFounders is a premium B2B startup accelerator by UnternehmerTUM, a no.1 Innovation hub in Europe. As a matchmaker between corporates and start-ups, we constantly seek innovative start-ups ready to test and develop their solutions with industry-leading companies.
We offer a unique program specialized in realising your start-up's full potential by developing and testing your solution hands-on with established businesses through a paid pilot project or a proof-of-concept (PoC). Ideally, these collaborations can evolve into long-term partnerships or customer relationships for your start-up!
The Key Program Benefits
© Bert WillerCollaborate with Corporates & SMEs
Develop and test your solution
You can find our current Corporate Partners and Pilot Project focus fields below
© Bert WillerReceive €25,000
Equity-free funding
We offer a project budget of €25k, without taking any equity or charges in return, for start-ups selected for a pilot projects
Tailored Coaching and Mentoring
Tackle your roadblocks
By seasoned serial entrepreneurs, tech experts, business angels, venture capitalists, and experienced industry professionals
© Walter WehnerConnect with International Investors
Build relationships that matter
Connect with TechFounders and UnternehmerTUM's investor network partners.
© Maximilian PrechtelPitch at Start-up Demo Day
Spotlight is yours
Present your company in front of number of investors, business angels, and business representatives
What kind of start-ups are we looking for?
Target Geographics
Globally
We accept applications from all around the world
Target Stages
Seed/Series A
“Late” early stage companies that have at least a working prototype
Exceptional Team
True Gamechangers
We are looking for people who are driven and curious with a big vision
Batch #21 Corporate Partners & Pilot Project Focus Fields
There are no open pilot project opportunities at the moment. But don't worry! Check out the 'Apply as a Wildcard' section below to learn how you can still join our next batch.
Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date when new collaboration opportunities open up!
Application Process
Our next batch runs from January to June 2025.
The pilot projects will start in alignment with your start-up's corporate partner.
The program Bootcamp starts at the end of February and is divided into 2 on-site sprints in Munich and online sessions. Each on-site sprint lasts 3-4 days and offers intensive training and coaching sessions tailored to your needs in addition to mentor meetings, pitch nights, and networking events.
- November 3
- NovemberNovember
Selection Process
Pre-discussions with potential candidates
Pitch events with TechFounders & Corporate Partners
- DecemberDecember
Decision & Announcement
Communication of decision to the applicants
- Jan - Feb 2025Jan - Feb 2025
Project & Program Kick-off
Start-up Bootcamp will kick off in February and take place on-site in Munich, Germany. The pilot projects with corporate partners start depending on the collaboration.
No Relevant Pilot Project Opportunities Right Now for You? Apply as a Wildcard
We reserve additional wildcard spots for our exclusive program to support technological development and sustainable economic growth globally.
We are here to back start-ups crafting revolutionary solutions in our Focus Fields - but we encourage you to apply even if your pioneering innovation falls outside these categories.
Wildcard spots include all of our usual benefits, such as:
intensive coaching and mentoring
access to potential partners and investors within our vast network
spot to pitch at the Start-up Demo Day by UnternehmerTUM