The TUM reached a significant milestone in 2024: over 100 startups were founded by researchers, students, and alumni of the university – a record number that underscores the innovation potential of Munich’s university. In the same year, UnternehmerTUM and the TUM Venture Labs supported more than 1,100 startup teams. In an environment regarded as one of Europe’s most successful deeptech hubs, Munich’s university is increasingly becoming a driver of innovation and startup foundings.
Success factors for a thriving startup landscape
The Technical University of Munich’s success in founding new companies is based on several key factors. Particularly noteworthy is the close interplay of interdisciplinary teams and customized support that facilitates founders’ path to self-employment. TUM President Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann emphasizes:
“More than 100 spin-offs in one year: this is a milestone not only for TUM, but also an important signal for the future viability of Germany as an innovation hub in the currently difficult economic and geopolitical situation. The foundation for this success is the entrepreneurial mindset that we have been encouraging throughout our university community for many years.”
TUM leading in EXIST founding grants
Another indicator of Munich’s university’s outstanding position in the field of startup foundings is its top position in EXIST founding grants. In 2024, more than 30 of these coveted grants went to TUM. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs supports spin-offs from universities with these grants, which help their teams during company formation. Overall, since the program’s launch in 2007, TUM has secured more than 250 grants, making it the most successful German university in this field.
Founding successes and the emergence of unicorns
The Technische Universität München is known not only for the sheer number of startups it produces, but also for the success of many of its ventures. 21 unicorns – companies valued at more than one billion dollars – were founded by TUM alumni and researchers. Among these unicorns is Celonis, Germany’s first decacorn, a company valued at more than ten billion dollars. This demonstrates the tremendous potential of TUM spin-offs and the successful implementation of deeptech solutions.
Customized programs for sustainable founder support
Another success factor for TUM is the targeted support of founders through specialized programs. The TUM Venture Labs offer tailored support across 12 major thematic areas – from quantum technologies to healthcare and aerospace – customized to each field. Close ties to cutting-edge research, technical infrastructure, and experts from their respective industries enable startups to receive optimal support throughout all phases of their development. Additionally, capital from UnternehmerTUM’s own venture capital fund flows into the most promising startups.
