Shape the future: Application for exist Women 2026 launched

Do you have an idea in a STEM or research-based field and want to take the plunge and start your own business? Would you like to become part of a strong network of female founders? Then apply for the exist Women 2026 program at TU Dresden by 30 March 2026. Here, the TUD|excite start-up team supports up to ten women and non-cis men from the initial idea to the finished concept.

What does the program offer?

The participants benefit from a structured support program that combines professional support, individual guidance and financial support.

• Practical workshops & offsite retreat to develop the business idea and entrepreneurial skills
• Individual coaching and mentoring
• Networking with experts, founders and investors
• Opportunity to receive a three-month scholarship for up to five selected participants
• Up to 2,000 euros per participant for material expenses

Who can apply?

The program is aimed at women and non-cis men who would like to start a business with a concrete business idea in a STEM or research-based field. Female students, employees and graduates of TU Dresden as well as members of the non-university research institutions HZDR, IFW and IPF from the dresden|exists network can apply.

The application deadline is March 30, 2026. The kick-off event will take place on April 24, 2026, and the program is scheduled to start on May 1, 2026.

Further information on the program & application:
https://www.dresden-exists.de/beratung/exist-women

Note on the program

Exist Women is a program funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy to support women and non-cis men in a targeted manner on their way to becoming self-employed entrepreneurs. The aim is to create more diversity in the start-up scene and to strengthen innovation-based start-ups in the long term. The final release of the funding by the sponsor is still pending. Applications are possible from March 2, 2026. A binding funding commitment will only be made with the official funding decision. There is no entitlement to funding.

Any further questions?

Charlotte Bienhaus
TUD|excite, Startup Manager
Phone +49 351 463 392372