Helmholtz Enterprise
Helmholtz Enterprise by the Helmholtz Association supports researchers in transforming their scientific discoveries into market-ready spin-offs through funding and entrepreneurial training.
Funder: Helmholtz Association
Due Dates: March 27, 2026 | September 25, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to €25,000 (Field Study Fellowship, 3 months, no co-funding) | Up to €250,000 (Spin-off Program, 14 months, 25% co-funding required)
Summary: Supports Helmholtz Center scientists in market validation and spin-off creation through targeted funding and entrepreneurial training.
Key Information: Applicants must be employed at a Helmholtz Center and have support from both their supervisor and the transfer office.
Description
This program empowers researchers at Helmholtz Centers to transform their scientific discoveries into impactful business ventures. It offers two independent funding modules: the Field Study Fellowship (FSF), which enables in-depth market research and customer discovery, and the Spin-off Program, which supports the creation and development of start-up teams, including skill-building and integration of external expertise. The initiative aims to foster a culture of innovation, bridge the gap between research and commercial impact, and facilitate the launch of successful spin-offs from Helmholtz Centers.
