Entrepreneurial thinking has always been a top priority at the Technical University of Munich (TUM).That is why the UnternehmerTUM Entrepreneur Susanne Klatten was the initiator from the very beginning. To this day, UnternehmerTUM can count on strong partners at its side, such as MunichRe, Siemens, and the BMW Group. The success certainly speaks volumes for the incubator. Navivis, Konux and Tado Some of Munich's most successful startups come from the UnternehmerTUM.
Reason enough to ask in more detail how the incubator can support startups and what they think the trend of the year is.
Please introduce yourselves briefly.
We offer founders a comprehensive service from the initial idea to the IPO. A team of experienced entrepreneurs, scientists, managers, and investors supports startups in the development of their products and services. Our 140 employees actively support them in establishing the company, entering the market, and obtaining financing – including through the UnternehmerTUM fund.
The Accelerator Program TechFounders coaches technology founders up to their first venture capital round within 20 weeks and initiates collaborations with established companies. For industry partners, UnternehmerTUM is a unique platform for collaborating with startups and expanding their internal innovation capacity and culture.
In Europe's largest publicly accessible high-tech workshop, MakerSpace, companies, startups and creatives can produce prototypes and small series on 1,500 square meters using state-of-the-art machines such as large 3D printers.
What do you focus on when working with startups?
It's important to us to support and support startups throughout their entire founding process. We always strive to address the individual needs of each team and support them with our many years of experience.
Entrepreneurs' Night (©UnternehmerTUM GmbH / Bert Willer)
“To be successful, a startup must…”
...consist of risk-taking and courageous people with an entrepreneurial spirit. Only in this way can founders implement their ideas and inventions and meet current challenges. And it's essential to stay on the ball.
Every startup needs strong partners
Why does a good startup need a business incubator behind it?
Every startup needs strong partners to build a successful business. UnternehmerTUM has a unique network of industrial companies, industry experts, talented individuals, and investors. Here, startups find cooperation partners, pilot customers, and new team members.
A good idea alone is often not enough – rapid and professional implementation is crucial. A business incubator can make this process much easier and accelerate the process of founding your own company.
What is the biggest mistake a startup can make?
Giving up too soon and hoping for great success too soon. Starting a company takes time; there are ups and downs. Founders also have to be able to take setbacks. Sometimes it just takes a little longer, but that shouldn't make founders throw everything away and give up.
Foyer UnternehmerTUM (©UnternehmerTUM GmbH / Marcus Ebener)
The trend of the year is…!
Digital Transformation
Munich offers an ideal environment for technology founders
What characteristics make the Munich startup scene so special?
Munich offers an ideal environment for technology founders: seven DAX-listed companies, thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises in the high-tech sector, over 15 universities, and a multitude of other startup and technology centers. Highly qualified talent, engineers, and IT developers are everywhere. Munich's startup scene is constantly growing and keeps pace with the latest developments and trends. There are ongoing events, meetups, festivals, and trade fairs, and the exchange within the community is also very strong.
Last but not least: Who do startups approach when they want to talk to you?
Startups have different contacts depending on their individual needs. On our Website you can find all contact persons.
