The Startup Port @TUHH had already provided targeted support in advance: At a founders’ breakfast shortly before the application deadline, open questions were clarified, uncertainties addressed, and concrete next steps discussed. The response was great: many interested women took part, and the majority of them subsequently submitted an application. The format thus proved to be an effective pre-application touchpoint that lowered barriers and helped activate participation.
Diverse Ideas from Various Disciplines
The program now begins with a selected cohort of female founders whose ideas cover different fields – ranging from technology-driven approaches to socially-oriented innovations. What unites them is their origin from TU Hamburg and the goal of developing viable business models from initial concepts.
The official kickoff was complemented by a multi-day event that focused specifically on community building and personal development. In an intensive offsite format, the participants worked on topics such as self-reflection, resilience, stress management, and personal positioning. At the same time, spaces were created for deeper exchange, peer learning, and initial pitching situations. The aim is not only to strengthen the individual startup projects but also to build a sustainable network within the cohort.
Continuous Support and Sustainable Impact
Throughout the course of the funding, the participants will receive continuous support from the Startup Port @TUHH. In addition to individual mentoring, workshops, sparring sessions, and access to the startup ecosystem are central. The goal is clear: to further refine the developed ideas and implement them with maximum impact.
With the successful launch of EXIST Women, TU Hamburg once again positions itself as an important driver of female entrepreneurship and sends a strong signal for more diversity in the startup scene of the Hamburg metropolitan region.
Those interested or with questions about the program are welcome to get in touch at: startupport(at)tuhh(dot)de
