The EXIST Startup Grant: The Most Exciting Funding Program for University Entrepreneurs
The EXIST Startup Grant is the most exciting funding program for founders from universities. If you want to receive funding of approximately €130,000 per team, you must clearly demonstrate that your project is innovative. This workshop series is designed to help you generate ideas and optimize your innovation description for EXIST applications.
Join the EXIST Workshop Series!
Participate in the EXIST workshop series, develop innovative business ideas with us and the community, and start your own project! We are excited to provide you with the knowledge and skills you need for success in the world of entrepreneurship and innovation.
The new cohort consists of six events, taking place on the last Friday of each month from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, combining an inspiring workshop with individual project work and coach feedback.
The session program
This time we are meeting for intensive project work on site at the Filmuni (hybrid participation possible by arrangement). Our topic is Innovation & Prototyping. All innovations are based on numerous hypotheses before they are implemented on the market. Following the Lean Startup method, we not only want to formulate these hypotheses, but also test them at an early stage. Prototyping is suitable for this. In prototyping, a product or service takes on a visual or even haptic form at an early stage. This allows an idea to be experienced at an early stage. This creates a common understanding and thus a basis for communication and discussion. You will see how much clarity this gives you for your own project and for the needs of your target group. In this full day workshop „Prototyping Innovation“ at Filmuni, you’ll bring your vision to life.
Why should you prototype your idea?
✅ Understand it better – Make your concept tangible
✅ Clarify & refine – Develop a concrete structure for your project
✅ Test early – Get valuable feedback before moving forward
✅ Make informed decisions – Validate your hypotheses and adjust accordingly
With expert guidance from Vasili Schewelow (Founder of ceqtor) and Jörn Krug (Head of the Startup Service), you’ll work hands-on to shape your project—for the first time in this series, live on campus!
Workshop Schedule
You can participate in one or multiple sessions as desired. Register here to join the workshops.
- March 28, 2025, 10:00 AM – EXIST Bootcamp Prototyping Innovation – On-Site Project Work
- April 25, 2025, 10:00 AM – Market Analysis and Competitive Strategy
- May 30, 2025, 10:00 AM – Business Operations and Pricing
- June 27, 2025, 10:00 AM – Financial Planning, Project Presentation & Mentor Feedback
For any questions, please email us. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to the EXIST Startup Grant.
Individual EXIST Consultation for Teams
Take advantage of our EXIST Startup Grant consultation services. Book an appointment here.