Frequently Asked Questions About the exist Startup Grant
Here you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about the application process, funding, and project timeline for the exist Startup Grant.
question_answer::Who is eligible to apply for an exist startup grant?
Funding is available to students, college graduates, and researchers from universities and non-university research institutions.
Former graduates and research staff are also eligible for funding, generally for up to five years after graduation or leaving the university or research institution.
question_answer::Can I apply as an individual?
Yes, both individual founders and startup teams of up to three people are eligible for funding.
question_answer::Do I need to have already started a business?
No, the exist startup grant supports projects in the pre-launch phase.
It is possible to start a business during the funding period, but it must not have been established before the funding began.
question_answer::What kinds of ideas are being supported?
Funding is provided for innovative, knowledge-based, or technology-oriented startup projects with clear market potential.
It is important that the project demonstrate a clear degree of innovation and have a distinct unique selling point.
Funding is not available for simple enhancements to existing products or services that do not involve significant innovation.
question_answer::Can I apply from any industry?
Yes. The exist startup grant is open to all industries.
Among other things, funding is available for startup ideas in the following areas:
- DeepTech
- AI and Software
- Life Sciences
- Sustainability and GreenTech
- MedTech
- Social Innovation
- digital business models
- industrial technologies
The key factors are the degree of innovation and growth potential.
question_answer::How much is the grant?
The amount of financial aid depends on your status.
- Monthly subsidy
- Founders with a Ph.D.: €3,000
- College graduates: €2,500
- Start-up founders with a vocational degree: €2,000
- Students: €1,000
In addition, funding may be provided for equipment and coaching services.
question_answer::How long does the grant last?
The grant typically lasts for twelve months.
question_answer::Who submits the application?
The application is not submitted directly by the founding team, but through the university or research institution.
That is why you should get in touch with the relevant startup network or technology transfer office early on.
question_answer::When can I apply?
Applications for the exist startup grant can generally be submitted at any time of the year. There are no set application deadlines.
question_answer::Can I work while receiving financial support?
The ability to hold a second job is limited.
The exist startup grant is designed to allow you to focus primarily on developing your startup project.
question_answer::Can I take advantage of other grant programs at the same time?
Yes, provided that they are not used to cover living expenses.
Possible examples include:
- Prize money
- Contests
- individual support or coaching programs
Specific compatibility should always be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
question_answer::What happens after the funding period ends?
Many teams launch their startups during or immediately after the funding period.
In addition, you can take advantage of various connection options, such as:
- exist Research Transfer
- Accelerator programs
- Investors
- public funding programs
- Venture Capital
- Startup competitions
question_answer::What role does my university play?
The university or research institution will oversee the project throughout the funding period and provide support in areas such as:
- Application
- Coaching
- Infrastructure
- Mentoring
- Network access points
She also submits the official grant application.
question_answer::Is exist only for universities in Germany?
Funding is provided through German universities and research institutions.
International applicants are also generally eligible to apply, provided they meet the requirements and the project is based at a participating institution in Germany.
question_answer::Why is "exist" considered a mark of quality?
For many years, the exist Startup Grant has been supporting innovative startups in the fields of science and research.
This funding demonstrates that a project has successfully navigated a rigorous selection process and possesses significant innovation potential. Many startups use this funding as a foundation for further scaling and follow-on financing.
