In addition to funding opportunities such as the EXIST start-up grant and EXIST research transfer, women also have the opportunity to take advantage of funding through "EXIST-Women" (EWo-BTU).

The EXIST-Women program is aimed at female graduates, scientists, students and women with vocational training related to a university with or without a start-up idea.

The funding offer consists of further training measures, mentoring, networking opportunities and an optional scholarship.

Here you will find a summary of the most important information:

Who is EXIST-Women at BTU aimed at?

• To graduates (the degree can also be more than 5 years old), scientists, students (Bachelor's degree or ≥ 50% of the coursework completed) and women with vocational training and a connection to the university who are interested in the topic of start-ups and want to take part in a 12-month qualification.
• Participation is also possible while studying or working.
• A concrete start-up idea can, but does not have to be present.
• Funding is also available for ideas that are not based on knowledge or research
• Women supported by federal or state start-up funding are not eligible for funding

What does EXIST-Women at BTU offer me?

• Participation in a 12-month qualification program for business start-ups
• Individual coaching by the university's start-up network
• entrepreneurial support from a mentor
• nationwide network of female founders
• One-off funding of €2,000 (e.g. for coaching, travel expenses and validation of your start-up idea)
• Optional 3-month scholarship if you have no income or work max. 20 h/week 1,000 - 3,000 €/month (depending on qualifications) + child allowance

What are my obligations as a participant?

• Participation in the seminar for female founders, in the events of the start-up network and the female founders' forums, in the individual advice and in the exchange with the mentor
• EXIST-Women is a measure to sensitize and qualify women to start-ups.There is no obligation to start a business. Presentation of the start-up idea and the results developed in a concise one-pager at the end of the funding period
• If you set up a company during the 12-month qualification phase or during subsequent start-up support - great. But if you want to take more time with the start-up, that's also okay, because entrepreneurial spirit is needed everywhere!

What documents are required for the application?

• Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages)
• Curriculum vitae
• Overview of grades or degree certificate
• If you have an idea: brief description of the idea (max. 1 page)

Documents can be submitted in German or English.

When do the application documents have to be submitted?

The submission of documents is currently TBA and is expected to take place in early Q2 2026. We will inform you in due time — stay tuned. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us anytime: gruendungsservice(at)b-tu.de