Spin-off Program (Helmholtz Enterprise – 1st Batch 2024)
The Helmholtz Spin-off Program funds Helmholtz Center researchers to turn their scientific discoveries into start-ups through team support, project funding, and entrepreneurial training.
Funder: Helmholtz Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (Spin-off Program full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to €230,000 per project (up to 75% of total costs); 14 months max; 25% co-funding by Center required.
Summary: Supports Helmholtz Center scientists in forming and implementing research-based spin-offs, including team-building, project costs, and entrepreneurial training.
Key Information: Internal program—applicants must be employed at a Helmholtz Center; Center co-funding and transfer office support are mandatory.
Description
The Spin-off Program is a central funding module within Helmholtz Enterprise, the Helmholtz Association’s internal initiative to foster entrepreneurship and spin-off activity among its researchers. The program provides financial and structural support for teams at Helmholtz Centers aiming to translate their scientific findings into viable start-up ventures. Funding covers personnel, material costs, and measures to build entrepreneurial competencies, such as accelerator participation and coaching, with the goal of enabling successful company foundations based on Helmholtz research.
