From Idea to Startup

Not yet a clear idea, but interested in starting a startup? Looking for like-minded peers and an entry into the startup world? We offer personalized startup consulting and numerous events to network with other entrepreneurs.

Through our platform collӕb, you can make valuable connections, and gather inspiration for your own business idea. Join the crowd!

Ready for the next step? We support you in your initial steps, refine your value proposition, and show you how to secure initial funding.  If you have an idea and a team by your side, participate in our 3-month Ideation Program and turn your vision into reality!

Experienced teams with an initial pre-seed investment (e.g., EXIST) can join our flexible 3-month Incubation Program. This program supports you in building your prototype, bringing your product to market, and securing additional early investments – we do everything to help you become our next unicorn.

Looking for specialized labs or workspaces or seeking to exchange ideas with experts? Our five Expert Hubs offer themed platforms to advance your ideas or startup. In addition to diverse networking opportunities, entrepreneurs and startups benefit from direct access to RWTH's expert support and the corresponding infrastructure.

The Collective Incubator offers numerous services and networking opportunities. Welcome to our community!

As part of the Exzellenz Startup Center.NRW initiative, the RWTH Innovation Sprint was developed in 2019 and active until 2024. This funding program supported researchers interested in founding a startup, in cooperation with a chair or institute of RWTH, to develop a prototype in order to validate the commercial viability of their research results.

Our Co-Founder Matching supports you in finding like-minded people. The International Entrepreneurship Office is designed for international aspiring entrepreneurs.