EXIST Transfer of Research (EXIST-Forschungstransfer)

About this grant

Two-phase funding for outstanding, development-intensive research-based startup projects from universities and research institutions. Phase I (18 months): up to 4 full-time positions plus material costs up to €250K to prove technical feasibility, build prototypes and prepare the business plan and company formation. Phase II (18 months): up to €180K (maximum 75% of costs) for development to market maturity after founding. Applications can be submitted at any time; review and assessment start on 31 March, 31 August and 30 November each year.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• Phase I: founding teams from higher education or research institutions (up to 4 full-time equivalents, including at least one business-administration position); applied for by the university/research institution
• Phase II: companies founded during Phase I (including, under a model project, AI-core companies arising from the EXIST Startup Grant); applied for by the company
• A mentor from the higher education/research institution is required
• Projects must be outstanding, research-based and development-intensive, with startup potential

Application tips