Grow your tech business in Stuttgart, Germany – Europe’s largest economy

As part of a new UK tech accelerator programme, the Department for Business and Trade is looking for UK tech companies to showcase their emerging tech solutions and grow their German customer base.

Six emerging UK tech companies, who are interested in boosting exports to Germany by establishing a corporate network in the tech city of Stuttgart, will be selected to join the tech accelerator programme.

Successful companies will participate in an intensive five-month exchange based out of Code Nopens eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com in a new tab, a German government-backed future industries hub. Among a cohort of emerging British tech stars, your company will be offered a unique opportunity to grow export successes and proofs of concept with southern German corporates starting September 2024.

The accelerator will be based in Stuttgart, home to corporates such as Bosch, Mercedes and SAP. Stuttgart is the capital city of the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany’s largest exporting state with an economy similar in size to Sweden. This region of Germany, at the very heart of Europe, boasts one of the highest densities of global corporates and spends approximately €30 billion on research and development each year.

Application deadline: 1 March 2024

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch for their place on the accelerator in front of a senior jury on 25 March 2024.


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The programme should complement your existing business plans and will include:

  • a high profile unveiling at Baden Württemberg’s Start-Up Summit in Stuttgart on 11 July 2024
  • office space in the accelerator for a company representative for a 5 month period
  • being part of the Code_N eco system and hub network
  • corporate and venture capital introductions and on-site visits (Bosch, BMW start-up garage, ZF and Trumpf are just a few of the accelertor partner corporates already on board)
  • the opportunity to join a wide range of start-up support packages with key stakeholders
  • enrolment into an accelerator mentoring programme
  • pitching opportunities
  • guidance on establishing an entity in Germany

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Application requirements:

  • Germany is a priority market and your business already has market entry or significant development plans in this area
  • Your HQ is based in the UK
  • Your business has developed an exciting emerging tech solution (ideally in AI, cyber, Quantum, IoT, digital transformation)
  • Your business is ready to sell its service or product

Desirable:

  • An existing customer base in Germany
  • Some German language skills

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Terms and conditions

Applicants will be solely responsible for any visa applications, work permits, travel and expenses as well as accommodation costs incurred. All successful applicants will also be asked to contribute €500 towards local facility costs ahead of taking up their placement and will be asked to sign a contract with the host to cover liability.

Information on working in Germany can be found here https://www.thelaend.de/relocationguide/opens www.thelaend.de in a new tab

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