Science start-ups The path to your own company
From university to your own start-up: the seven most important steps on the way to a successful spin-off in Germany.
Sabine Giehle ,
26.06.2024 
Are you involved in the world of scientific research, have a business idea and want to set up a technology-oriented, knowledge-based company in Germany? Here we describe the seven most important steps on your way to establishing your own company in Germany and give you details of some contacts that you may find useful.
The seven most important steps to setting up a spin-off
- You have a viable business idea: check the rights (clarify IP usage rights with your university, check whether patents already exist); find out about the subject of start-ups at trade fairs and events.
- Organise support: get in touch with your university or institute or apply for a mentoring programme.
- Define the key building blocks of your company: compile a paper with your business idea, a pitch deck, a brief presentation for potential investors and a business plan – preferably with the support of a mentor.
- Check sales channels and marketing strategies: support and expertise are required here, too.
- Look for the right infrastructure: make use of co-working facilities or university resources if possible, organise the staff you need.
- Take care of the finance: look for investors and apply for funding.
- Time to launch your spin-off: stay on the ball and expand your networks, apply for prizes and take part in competitions.
See here for help with setting up a spin-off
Most universities and non-university research institutions in Germany support spin-offs that emerge from their institutions by providing spin-off counselling and special transfer offices.
There are dedicated support programmes, particularly for the initial phase of setting up a business – these not only provide money but also coaches and mentors:
• The funding programme EXIST specifically provides support for start-ups emerging from academia in the form of financial subsidies and know-how.
• Business Angels Deutschland support start-ups with capital and expertise.
• The funding programme INVEST – Zuschuss für Wagniskapital subsidises private venture capital provided by business angels, thereby helping start-ups to find an investor more easily.
• For more information on the topic of start-ups in general, see KfW Bank’s start-up platform.
