Programme Overview
EXIST (Existenzgründungen aus der Wissenschaft) is Germany's federal programme to foster technology-based startups from universities and research institutions. The EXIST Gründerstipendium provides a living stipend, sachkosten (material costs), and coaching to academic founders developing innovative products or services in the pre-incorporation phase.
Who Can Apply?
Students, graduates (within 5 years), and researchers at German universities or non-university research institutions. Team must include at least one technical founder. University partnership required.
What Does It Fund?
Technology-based or knowledge-based business concepts with significant innovation content and scalable potential.
Funding Amount & Rates
Stipend: €1,000–3,000/month per founder (depending on academic status: PhD, Master's, etc.) for up to 12 months. Plus up to €10,000 for material/coaching costs per team.
Deadlines & Timeline
Application deadline: Rolling applications through affiliated universities. Contact your university's EXIST liaison office (Transferstelle) first.
Processing time: 3–5 months from university submission to BMWK decision.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Covers living costs — founders can work full-time on the startup
- No equity dilution
- Access to university infrastructure and mentoring
- Strong signal for subsequent fundraising and grants
Limitations
- University affiliation is mandatory — no independent startups
- Max 3 founders (technical + business)
- 1-year duration only
- Cannot be combined with ZIM or other federal grants for same costs