Programs

The Startup Elevator is the go-to accelerator for startups in life sciences, bioeconomy and digital innovation in Germany, with no equity, nor fees Our sector-specific programs are designed to meet the unique needs of scientific founders, helping you transform your research into a successful company. You can choose between 3 programs depending on your development stage and focus: 9 months, 6 months and 3 months.

You get in-depth training in 8 key elements every founder needs. We work with a market driven approach, ensuring your technology fits perfectly to your customers. You’ll benefit from extra sessions with industry experts and mentors. To help you stay focused, motivated and organized we have bi-weekly Check In’s with your personal coach.

Our commitment doesn’t stop at coachings. We offer an infrastructure package to help you focus on what matters:

      • Free co-working spaces
      • Conference rooms for investor meetings
      • Maker spaces for prototyping
      • in-house Café & event space
      • Laboratories with startup-friendly rents

We connect startups with the infrastructure, expertise, capital and network they need – we’re here to lift you up.

Global Network

Strong local and international partners, mentors and industry leaders.

Free Co-working Space

Access to sector specific labs, equipment, offices, and shared facilities

Investor Community

Funding support with pitch training, networking and access to our investor community

Custom Coaching

Your personal startup coach to guide you on your journey

Visibility & Events

Get featured in media, pitch on stage, and meet your future partners

Business Accelerator

Life Sciences and Bioeconomy

Duration: 9 months 

Application Deadline: July 15th, 2026 

Start of the Program: September 15th, 2026 

Focus: Business Readiness and Go-to-Market Strategy

 

Apply for the Business Accelerator, if you… 

  • Are in the seed phase or preparing for it 
  • Need support in business development and product-market fit 
  • Teams looking for strategic guidance, infrastructure, and industry access 

Investment Bootcamp

Life Sciences and Bioeconomy

Duration: 12 weeks 

Application Deadline: January 15th, 2026 

Start of the Program: March 3rd, 2026 

Focus: Investment readiness and funding strategy 

 

Apply for the Investment Bootcamp, if you… 

  • Founders looking for funding opportunities or preparing to raise a seed or Series A round.
  • Teams that have a validated product, prototype, or first traction 
  • Startups looking to sharpen their pitch, financials, and deal strategy before engaging with investors 

Business Accelerator

Digital Innovation

Duration: 6 months

Application Deadline: 15th of November

Start of the Program: January 22nd, 2026

Focus: Product Readiness and Go-to-Market Strategy

 

Apply for the Digital Innovation Accelerator, if you…

  • Are in the pre seed or seed phase
  • Need support in business development and product market fit
  • Startups looking to grow fast and be ready for the market in less than 6 months

Your Mentor Could Be

Dr. Stefan Schneider

Director
KPMG

Dr. Marie Kappen

Senior Investment Manager
b.value AG

Jon Flynn

Head of AI GTM
Google 

Dr. Marc Hentz

CEO & Serial Entrepreneur
Open Sesame Therapeutics 

Dr. Jörg Schäffner

Director Global Quality Assurance
Wacker Biotech

Meet our Partners