UnternehmerTUM is sharpening its brand strategy and renaming its two central support programs for startups. Xplore is becoming the UnternehmerTUM Incubator, and Xpreneurs is becoming the UnternehmerTUM Accelerator. With the new names, Europe’s leading center for innovation and entrepreneurship underscores the different development phases that both programs address: from the first idea to scaling a company. As part of the restructuring, the curriculum, mentor and investor networks, as well as industry partnerships have been significantly expanded.
In parallel with the renaming, application phases for the next batches are already underway. Deeptech founders can apply for the UnternehmerTUM Incubator or the UnternehmerTUM Accelerator depending on the development stage of their startup.
Two programs for different growth phases
The UnternehmerTUM Incubator is aimed at technology-driven teams in the early stage. The program supports founders from the first validated idea to a solid business logic. Participants benefit from access to the entire UnternehmerTUM ecosystem, industrial partners and investors, as well as UnternehmerTUM’s funding and venture capital offerings. In addition, they receive free access to the MakerSpace and support through AI-powered tools for product development and financing. Applications for the next batch are possible until July 19, 2026. The program runs from August 31 to December 9, 2026.
The UnternehmerTUM Accelerator supports startups that have already developed a prototype and now want to acquire their first customers, raise capital, and scale their business. Annually, the program supports around 300 deeptech startups and provides access to more than 250 venture capital providers and public funding partners. In addition, there are contacts with companies for pilot projects and initial customer relationships, individual coaching, and expert sessions on topics such as fundraising, market entry, and intellectual property. Participants also receive free office and lab space as well as discounts worth around 600,000 euros.
The application phase for Batch 20 of the UnternehmerTUM Accelerator runs until July 7, 2026. The program starts on September 3 and ends on December 10, 2026.
