Building deep tech startups backed by global research leaders.
Powering deep tech startups with our program at Fraunhofer HHI
Germany has gone all-in on deep tech, and so have we. Technology like AI and Quantum Computing will shape the future of the European economy.
Check out our startup program for deep tech & AI startups, in partnership with one of Germany’s biggest research organizations; Fraunhofer’s Heinrich Hertz Institute.
Meet our portfolio startups
Flybionic develops long-range autonomous drones, the size of a pigeon, for emergency response and infrastructure monitoring, utilizing cellular networks and BVLOS technology to deliver real-time insights and enhance operational safety.
NepTune is a gamified AI app that teaches kids to play instruments through engaging gameplay, correcting posture and notes while providing personalized lessons via subscription and school integration.
Spin Digital creates advanced software for high-resolution video and media applications, supporting 8K and VR formats. Built on a solid research foundation, they deliver high-performance products for broadcasting, streaming, and video production.
hoopooh supports daycare teachers through their speech-based AI platform that automates administrative tasks, tracks child development, and improves parent-teacher communication. They are also developing an explainable AI to help teachers make better observations and personalize learning.
Check out our program
Accelerating deep tech & AI startups 🚀
You’re an early-stage deep tech startup, who have already formed a team and built an MVP.
Our program uses both Silicon Allee and Fraunhofer HHI’s resources, expertise, and connections to support your startup.
Applications open in 2025. Sign up to our newsletter to stay updated.
Here’s the Breakdown:
Our full-time program runs for 1 year, extendable to 2 years.
Access to Fraunhofer HHI’s Technology Access to cutting-edge research facilities and technology. Leverage their patents and expertise to enhance your products.
Sleek workspace A stylish office space for you and your crew, just a stone’s throw from Tiergarten.
Financial support Non-cash investment including full-time salaries for your team for 1-2 years, (up to €500k).
Founders’ ownership Maintain 100% control of your company, with Fraunhofer taking a minimal virtual share (10% approx). Check our FAQs page for more info.
Network & community Be part of our supportive community in Berlin and beyond. Connect and collaborate with amazing people.
ℹ️ Visit our FAQs page to find out more and check out our Application Guide.
Robots? Lasers? Teleportation? We’re not kidding.
Thanks to Fraunhofer HHI, we have a ton of cutting-edge tech in-house, we’re looking for the next generation of entrepreneurs to build startups using it:
AI
Generative AI, machine learning, robotics.
Think AI-personalized cancer treatment, robots for home care, AI-optimized energy grids.
Video & Imaging
VR, AR, 3D, 4D, sensors, streaming, biometrics.
Think smart glasses for language translation, drone delivery with obstacle detection, VR training simulations, thermal imaging to detect wildlife poachers.
Connectivity
Wireless communications like 5G, 6G, even drones.
Think autonomous vehicles, earth-to-space energy transmission, haptic feedback gloves for remote surgery, immediate disaster relief communication systems.
Photonics (Light)
Using lasers, fiber-optics, quantum components, batteries
Think ultra-secure data transmission, photonic computer components, EV battery monitoring and up-cycling, advanced LiDAR systems for faster autonomous vehicles.
…other moonshot ideas 🔭
Don’t feel limited by these categories. If you’re building something truly groundbreaking we’d still love to hear about it.
We specifically love these industry verticals:
Energy, climate, healthcare, agriculture, education, urban tech, B2B services, and any sector ripe for disruption with these technologies.
Our portfolio
Since 2011, our mission has been to bring passionate people together to help them build awesome businesses.
From 2019 to 2023 we supported 25 impact-focused businesses, and over 60 founders grow from an idea to launch through our Berlin Founders Fund. With the support of the non-equity funding and the daily advice from our network. They have raised over €100M to date.
Upcoming events
[Tuesday] January 7th, 9-11AM
Monthly Meet Up
The Monthly Meetup is the longest running tech & startup community event in Berlin - connecting founders, mentors, investors, innovators and change makers. Join us to share your ideas, needs and advice with fellow founders, mentors, investors and experts.
Get tickets here!
Last Thursday of every month
🎤 Apply to Pitch
Do you have a Deep Tech or AI startup? Pitch at one of our Deep Tech Nights in front of a live audience of hundreds of peers, experts and investors in the tech space, and hear from a jury of deep tech investors.
5 mins pitch / 5 min Q&A
Apply to Pitch
