Munich Startup: What motivated you to start your own business?
Katharina Hesseler: I was motivated by the opportunity to work with technological pioneering work To make a positive contribution to social change. I am convinced that new scientific findings and innovative technologies are key levers for sustainably solving the challenges of our time. For me, sustainability means combining economic progress with responsible action. With Omegga, I have the opportunity to put precisely that into practice and, at the same time, build something of my own that can initiate real change. It is particularly fulfilling for me to walk this path together with a team that is passionate about technology and impact and works with exceptional dedication toward our vision.
"Starting a business is not a sprint, but a marathon."
Munich Startup: What would you have liked to know before starting your first business?
Katharina Hesseler: I wish I had understood earlier that founding a company is far more than the success stories, funding rounds, and networking events you see on LinkedIn. The glamorous side of entrepreneurship is visible, but the many difficult phases in between are not. Anyone starting a business has to learn to make decisions even with incomplete information, weather crises, and persevere in the long run. Founding a company isn't a sprint, it's a marathon. That's why a strong team with whom you can weather the highs and lows together, as well as your own physical and mental health, are crucial success factors. Because in the end, it's not just about having a good idea, but also about having the stamina and resilience to put it into practice despite all the challenges.
Munich Startup: How is your company currently financed?
Katharina Hesseler: Since our Founded in 2022 Our team has grown to over 20 employees. In 2024, we secured an EIC grant of €2.4 million. One customer is already fully operational, and another is in the implementation phase. The project was completed in early 2026. Funding round exceeding 10 million euros With IQ Capital, Capnamic and the EIC Fund, we will now double our team.
Munich Startup: When and where do you get your best ideas?
Katharina Hesseler: Mostly not at my desk. My best ideas come to me while playing sports, on walks, or traveling – whenever my mind is somewhat removed from daily business. Often, however, the most exciting thoughts arise from discussions with our team, clients, or partners, when different perspectives collide.
Munich Startup: What are your 3 favorite work tools?
Katharina Hesseler: Claude and ChatGPT as sparring partners for research, structuring and initial drafts of presentations and concepts.
Fathom: Automatic meeting summaries allow me to fully concentrate on the other person and the content of the conversation. This saves time and ensures that important insights are not lost.
My gravel bike: My daily commute is an integral part of my day. Often, it helps me organize my thoughts, generate new ideas, or suddenly make challenges seem much more manageable. At the same time, it's a time to switch off and recharge, and an important way to stay focused and energized in the long run.
"Know your audience"
Munich Startup: Your top tip on pitching?
Katharina Hesseler: Know your audience and keep it simple. Those who understand why a problem is relevant will also understand the value of your solution.
Munich Startup: Does this seem like a good time to start a business? Why?
Katharina Hesseler: Yes. There are currently major technological and societal upheavals – from AI to the increasing scarcity of resources. Such changes create challenges, but also opportunities for new solutions. Anyone who solves a relevant problem and has perseverance will still find good conditions for starting a business today.
Munich Startup: Which technology or industry would you focus on for your next startup?
Katharina Hesseler: Focusing on climate protection and decarbonization. Limiting climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and the window of opportunity for effective solutions is limited. I find the possibility of making a concrete and measurable contribution through technology exciting.
Decoupling entrepreneurship from financial background
Munich Startup: From your perspective, what could be improved about Munich as a startup location?
Katharina Hesseler: Startup grants should be more closely aligned with actual living costs. Especially in a city like Munich, it's often difficult to live solely on a grant if you don't already have financial reserves. This makes starting a business harder for many talented people. I believe we could unlock more potential if entrepreneurship were more accessible, regardless of personal financial background.
Munich Startup: Which founder would you like to meet in person? And what would you ask them?
Katharina Hesseler: Elon Musk. Even though I personally don't agree with his political views, I'm impressed by his entrepreneurial influence. He has shaped entire industries and significantly advanced topics like electromobility and space travel. I'm fascinated by people who don't explain why something won't work, but instead dare to tackle the seemingly impossible and make it a reality. I would ask him how he sets priorities, divides his focus between several major projects, and where he gets the perseverance to stick to a vision even when almost everything seems to be working against him.
