In 2025, two new batches will start. For all those who have successfully applied for Batch #5, the Bootcamp for Batch #5 will take place in February.
If you are also thinking about applying for our start-up incubator with your science-based start-up idea, you are welcome to do so from 17 March, where the application window for Batch #6 opens.
We collected three top things for aspiring Max Planck founders to do right now.
Grab a coffee and talk to your supervisor about your start-up idea
The Start-up Incubation Program MAX!mize is enabling scientists to pursue an entrepreneurial career. During the whole time of the program, Max Planck Scientists stay affiliated with their institute. Participation with the program is never a stand-alone decision. Besides finding team members (at least one) for your startup projects it is highly recommended to involve your supervisor early with your ambition. Participation in the program needs to be backed by your supervisor. On top of that: Challenging your startup idea with experienced colleagues is highly recommended. Group Leaders and Directors can give valuable feedback on your start-up idea. Bonus: You will be surprised by the entrepreneurial experience a lot of Max Planck staff can provide.
Gain clarity and erase doubts by getting to know your Start-up Coach
Is my business model drafted logically? Is it the right time for starting my start-up idea? Suffering from sleepless nights because of these questions? MAX!mize offers help for that: Not an anonymous chatbot, not some brochure but some real human longstanding experience. Start-up & Portfolio Managers at Max Planck Innovation offer broad experience in supporting spin-offs from Max Planck research. They can advise and guide you on how to make the best out of your ambition. Just write them a mail via our contact form!
Bring your application draft to submission by April 10th
Procrastinating the application draft? Bad idea! Start now to make 2025 as successful as possible by submitting your final application for the incubation program. As long as you did not hit the "submit" button underneth your draft, you are not officially applying. The questionnaire is pretty simple and can be filled in quickly. If you have any questions contact your Start-up Couch or reach out to MAX!mize at any time. And don’t worry, submitting of the application will not determine your entrepreneurial future. You will always be able to reapply for the program if your start-up idea needs some adjustments.
You still have doubts? With these arguments we can convince you to apply:
Our official program for Max Planck scientists offers a whole host of benefits:
Individual support: Together with other motivated teams, as a participant in the incubator you will receive individual support on your start-up journey. Our Start-up Coaches and external trainers will advise you in one-to-one sessions and have all the answers to your questions.
Curriculum: You can also count on a need-based curriculum. From #TeamBuilding and #MarketAnalysis to #Prizing - all start-up-relevant topics will be covered.
Funding: You can also receive funding as part of our start-up program. Depending on the jury's decision, we will support your start-up with up to 50,000 euros in Phase 1 and up to 220,000 euros in Phase 2.
Network: Last but not least: our MAX!mize incubator offers the perfect opportunity to network with the right people such as business angels, investors, fellow founders.