Helmholtz Enterprise
Helmholtz Enterprise by the Helmholtz Association funds researchers to validate market needs and launch science-based spin-offs, bridging research and commercial application within Helmholtz Centers.
Funder: Helmholtz Association
Due Dates: September 25, 2026 (Field Study Fellowship & Spin-off Program)
Funding Amounts: Up to €25,000 (Field Study Fellowship, max 3 months, no co-funding required); up to €250,000 (Spin-off Program, max 14 months, 25% co-funding required from Center)
Summary: Supports Helmholtz Center researchers in validating market needs and launching research-based spin-offs through targeted funding and entrepreneurial support.
Key Information: Application requires supervisor and transfer office support; only employees of Helmholtz Centers are eligible.
Description
Helmholtz Enterprise is an internal funding program of the Helmholtz Association aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and the commercialization of scientific research within Helmholtz Centers. The initiative consists of two independent modules: the Field Study Fellowship, which supports early-stage market validation and customer research, and the Spin-off Program, which funds the formation and development of start-up teams. Both modules are designed to bridge the gap between research and commercial application, enabling researchers to explore business opportunities and launch spin-offs with structured support and funding.
