The LMU EC has been enriching the Munich startup scene for over 15 years. Some of the successful companies from the LMU startup forge include Flixbus, Finanzchef24 and tado. With events like the Leading Entrepreneurs or Cashwalk, the LMU EC regularly attracts hundreds of startup aficionados to the hallowed halls of Munich's Ludwig Maximilian University.
A large network is also required — be it within the university structures with good contacts to LMU Spin-off Service or to further cooperation partners.
Natalie Kho and Florian Rickert, the contact persons for startups at LMU EC, took the time for an interview with Munich Startup.
We want to inspire people to start a business
Please introduce yourselves briefly!
The LMU Entrepreneurship Center (LMU EC) of the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich aims to inspire students and graduates to start their own business and support them in realizing their business idea.
We have three major areas: Community, Lab, and Teaching. The Lab is particularly interesting for startups. We support 15 teams there each semester. The young entrepreneurs receive free offices, coaching, and access to our network.
We have already supported over 165 startups, of which 40% have received follow-on financing.
Personal contact is important to us
What do you focus on when working with startups?
Personal contact with startups is particularly important to us. This allows us to understand exactly what the current hurdles are for each startup and provide the best possible support.
To be successful, a startup must…
… set clear goals and keep them in mind at all times.
LMU EC: A lot of experience and a large network
Why does a good startup even need the LMU Entrepreneurship Center behind it?
Of course, a startup doesn't necessarily need a business incubator to be successful. However, it becomes significantly easier if you have contacts with extensive experience to support you. A business incubator also offers a great opportunity to build a large network.
What is the biggest mistake a startup can make?
The biggest mistake a startup can make is giving up too soon. Instead, founders should persevere even when things aren't going well!
Trend topic: cooperation
The trend of the year is…
… cooperation between startups and more established players.
What characteristics make the Munich startup scene so special?
Munich's startup scene is growing steadily. Hardly a month goes by without a new accelerator opening. A lot is happening in Munich, especially in the tech and B2B sectors.
Together we are stronger!
And what do you want to say to the Munich startup scene?
We would like to cooperate more, exchange ideas and help each other!
Together we are even stronger!
Last but not least: Who do startups approach when they want to talk to you?
Startups should contact us at team@lmulab.de or directly with Natalie Kho or Florian Rickert.
