exist Start-up Grant
Are you an early-stage start-up team that has developed an innovative business idea and is now looking for the financial freedom to get off the ground?
The exist is the most sought-after funding programme of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). It supports technology-oriented or knowledge-based projects with a significant unique selling point.
The HdM Startup Center advantage: We have an above-average success rate when it comes to applications. We provide intensive support throughout the process, connect you with mentors from our academic staff, and provide the necessary infrastructure (workspaces, accounting) at the Hochschule der Medien.
All of this applies, of course, even if you haven’t studied at the HdM, provided your idea fits in with our focus.
Who is eligible for funding?
The programme is aimed at teams (of up to three people) who wish to use their academic studies to launch a start-up:
- Students: From the halfway point of their degree programme (however, the majority of the team must not consist of students).
- Graduates & alumni: Up to 5 years after graduation or leaving research.
- Researchers: From public universities or research institutions.
- Special case: A team member may also have completed a recognised vocational training programme (e.g. as a technical specialist).
The scope of funding
The grant covers your living expenses so that you can focus 100% on your start-up.
- Founders with a PhD receive €3,000 per month
- Graduates with a university degree: €2,500 per month
- Technical staff: €2,000 per month
- Students: €1,000 per month
- Child allowance: €150 per month per child
Additional budgets:
- Materials and equipment: Up to €30,000 for teams (€10,000 for solo start-ups).
- Coaching: €5,000 for external expert advice.
- Infrastructure: Free use of offices and laboratories at the HdM
Which ideas stand a chance of success?
To ensure your application is successful, your project must meet the following criteria:
- Innovation: A technical product or process innovation, or a novel service offering significant benefits to customers.
- Unique selling point: A clear distinction from the current state of the art or market competition.
- Scalability: A business model that offers prospects for sustainable economic success.
- Problem-solution fit: You address a clearly defined, real customer problem.
The path to a scholarship: What happens next
An EXIST application isn’t a sprint, but a strategic project. We can help you determine whether your idea is ‘EXIST-ready’.
Please feel free to get in touch with us or arrange a consultation
Questions about exist?
Johanna Kutter
Startup Center