The Viessmann Foundation and the TUM Venture Labs They have agreed on a multi-year partnership. The goal is to specifically promote the development of climate startups in Munich. The foundation will provide a total of seven figures over three years for this purpose. Together, both partners pursue a clear vision: to increase the impact of climate-relevant activities tenfold in the next decade.
Max Viessmann, CEO of the Viessmann Generations Group, explains:
“The climate crisis needs courageous entrepreneurs who put climate protection at the heart of their business models. That's why we're delighted to be working with TUM Venture Labs – a joint initiative of the Technical University of Munich and UnternehmerTUM, which is building one of Europe's most vibrant ecosystems for deep-tech and climate innovation. We are convinced that Munich's strong ecosystem can increase its climate-relevant activities tenfold – and we are determined to contribute to that.”
TUM Venture Labs as an innovation platform for deep tech
The goal of TUM Venture Labs is to translate research findings from the fields of deep tech and life sciences into marketable innovations. In twelve thematic labs – ranging from artificial intelligence and mobility to sustainability – students, doctoral candidates, and researchers gain access to mentoring, incubation programs, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and strong networks. This fosters the development of cutting-edge research into innovative startups that address global challenges.
With the support of the Viessmann Foundation, the initiative's portfolio is now being expanded to include a new "Climate & Circular Lab." This lab will focus on key future topics such as greenhouse gas reduction, climate adaptation, renewable energies, and the circular economy. Furthermore, international collaborations with leading research institutions and innovation partners such as Stanford, MIT, Breakthrough Energy, and the Earthshot Prize will be further developed.
Cooperation as an impetus for Munich's startup ecosystemem
Philipp Gerbert, CEO of TUM Venture Labs, sees the partnership as a strong signal for the next generation of founders:
“We want to inspire and empower students and researchers to develop innovative and scalable solutions to combat climate change, strengthen our resilience, and drive the transformation to a circular economy. A global perspective and the economic viability of climate-friendly technologies are crucial for this. With the Viessmann Foundation, we are gaining an experienced partner whose expertise and network will significantly advance our project.”
Lars Eiermann, Chief Sustainable Officer and Managing Director of the Venture Lab Climate & Circular, highlights the role of the location:
“With TUM, UnternehmerTUM, LMU, and Max Planck and Helmholtz Institutes, Munich offers a unique environment for research-based innovation. The Viessmann Foundation strengthens this mission by supporting students and researchers in transforming their deep-tech insights into measurable change for the climate.”
Philipp Schmaelzle, SVP Innovation at Viessmann, adds:
“The interplay of deep tech, a pioneering spirit, and entrepreneurship has given rise to entire industries such as the solar, wind, and battery industries. Against the backdrop of the intensifying climate crisis, we can once again create a positive starting point if we focus on science-based and scalable solutions.”
The partnership aims to strengthen Munich's international focus and visibility as a location for sustainable high-tech startups. By expanding the collaborations of the Climate & Circular Lab, the TUM Venture Labs simultaneously reinforce their role as a central hub for sustainable innovation in Europe.
