Helmholtz Enterprise
ForecastedInternal — Helmholtz Association only
Helmholtz Enterprise supports Helmholtz researchers with customer interviews, market research, and spin-off development to understand customer needs and build businesses based on their research.
Funder: Helmholtz Association
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Application deadline, both modules)
Funding Amounts: Field Study Fellowship: up to €25,000 for 3 months; Spin-off Program: up to €250,000 for 14 months
Summary: Supports Helmholtz researchers in testing customer needs and building research-based spin-off projects through two independent modules.
Key Information: Helmholtz Centers apply; funded individuals must be employed at a Center throughout the funding period.
Description
Helmholtz Enterprise is the Helmholtz Association’s internal support program for research-based spin-offs, funded through its Initiative and Networking Fund. It aims to strengthen transfer culture, develop entrepreneurial skills among Helmholtz employees, and help scientists establish well-thought-out businesses based on their research.
The program has two independently accessible modules. The Field Study Fellowship supports customer interviews and market research to understand how research can address economic, social, or environmental needs. The Spin-off Program supports start-up team formation and project implementation at Helmholtz Centers, including externally recruited team members and entrepreneurship training. A Field Study Fellowship is recommended preparation but is not required for the Spin-off Program; applicants may demonstrate their understanding of customer needs through other work.
