Are you a Munich startup in the pre-founding or early stage with a technical solution that makes life in old age easier? Then apply now by June 30, 2026 for the Senovation Award!
The competition is aimed at startups and founders with ideas, products, and business models for an aging society.
Eligible are early-stage startups that were founded after June 29, 2022. In the Pre-Seed category, teams with business ideas that are still in the pre-founding phase can also apply.
The call for proposals is broadly designed in terms of content. We are looking for concepts that specifically address the needs of older people or work across generations. According to the call, what matters is that the solutions take into account the different abilities and requirements of user groups. Projects from all industries are welcome, regardless of whether they are intended for the B2C or B2B market.
Frank Leyhausen, initiator of the Senovation Award, appeals:
“Right now we need creative founders who harness the opportunities of AI, robotics and sensors and develop solutions that match the life reality of older people and do not cater to age stereotypes.”
Application online, video optional
Applications are submitted exclusively online via the form on the competition’s website.
A multi-stage selection process then begins. In the first evaluation phase, an online panel of seniors assesses suitable applications based on brief summaries. This includes, among other things, novelty value, relevance to the older target group, feasibility, and security and data protection.
The most successful teams reach the digital semi-final and present their business idea in person on August 5, 2026.
Two winners and €5,000 prize money each
The final is scheduled for September 24, 2026. The pitch takes place in front of a jury of experts from business, research, and demography.
The two winning teams each receive €5,000 prize money as well as individual coaching measures. The award is supported by the Signal Iduna Group. The patron of the competition is Mona Neubaur, Minister for Economics, Medium-sized Enterprises, Energy and Climate Protection of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia. Further information on participation terms, jury, prize money and application is provided by the Senovation Award on its website.
