Helmholtz Enterprise
Helmholtz Enterprise by the Helmholtz Association funds researchers to validate market needs and launch spin-offs, supporting the journey from scientific discovery to commercial innovation.
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% center co-funding required)
Summary: Supports Helmholtz researchers in launching spin-offs and validating market needs through modular funding for entrepreneurial projects.
Key Information: Only employees of Helmholtz Centers are eligible; spin-offs must not yet be founded at application.
Description
Helmholtz Enterprise is an internal funding initiative of the Helmholtz Association aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and technology transfer within its research centers. The program empowers scientists to explore market opportunities for their research and supports the creation of spin-off companies. It is structured around two independent modules:
- Field Study Fellowship (FSF): Enables researchers to investigate customer and market needs for their technology or research idea through interviews and market research. This short-term fellowship is designed to help clarify the commercial potential and user requirements before moving toward a spin-off.
- Spin-off Program: Provides substantial support for researchers (and external team members, if needed) to build interdisciplinary start-up teams, develop a business model, and prepare for company formation. The program includes coaching, entrepreneurship training, and milestone-based project support.
Since 2005, the program has supported hundreds of projects, resulting in numerous successful ventures that bridge the gap between research and industry.
