Startup Launchpad – The program for technology-focused ideas
Time to commit: Three months. Full focus.
Startup Launchpad is a three-month program for founding teams who want to further develop their deep-tech idea in a structured way and move it closer to market entry.
Clear milestones, regular feedback, and a strong focus on execution help you turn your idea into tangible progress.
Is your team ready to join?
Quick Facts:
The key program details at a glance:
- Application deadline: July 3, 2026, 11:59 a.m.
- Kick-off and programme start: July 6, 2026
- Early-Bird Deadline: June 28, 2026
- Early-Bird Feedback: June 29, 2026
- Duration: 3 months
- Time commitment: approx. 3 days per week
- Location: Saarbrücken
- Demo Day: September 22, 2026
- Opportunity for incubation worth up to €100,000
Early-Bird Bonus: Apply sooner, get feedback earlier
Apply by June 28, 2026 and benefit from a priority review of your application.
We will review your documents with priority and let you know on June 29, 2026 whether you can take part in the programme – before the official application deadline. This gives you early planning certainty and helps you prepare your next steps.
Why join the Startup Launchpad?
Ideas come quickly — what matters is what you make of them.
Structure instead of guesswork
You won’t work on your idea “somehow” — you’ll work with clear milestones and real feedback.
Focus on execution
Three months to fully focus on your idea — no side-project mindset, but with a clear goal in sight.
From thinking to doing
You’ll test assumptions, make decisions, and work hands-on on your business model.
Honest feedback
You’ll receive direct and constructive feedback from mentors, companies, and experts.
Stronger teams
You’ll refine your roles, improve collaboration, and grow together as a team.
Access to the network
Become part of an ecosystem with fresh perspectives, valuable connections, and strong partners.
Time to commit means taking your idea seriously — challenging it, refining it, and moving it forward with focus and commitment.
What to expect
Startup Launchpad is a structured program designed for progress — not just participation. That’s why it combines:
- Workshops & expert input
- Focused team work sessions
- Weekly 1:1 reviews for continuous feedback
- Mentoring & coaching
- Regular progress pitches (every four weeks)
- Company visits
Note: The input sessions of the Startup Launchpad are held in German. If needed, we offer an English translation option. During the working phases, teams can decide which language they would like to use for collaboration. Coaching can also be provided in either German or English.
Demo Day: The Grand Finale
At Demo Day, selected teams present their ideas to representatives from industry, investors, and the startup ecosystem.
The pitch offers an opportunity to showcase progress, receive valuable feedback, and build important connections.
The winning team will then receive the opportunity for an incubation package worth up to €100,000 — with the goal of further developing the venture in Saarland.
Who can apply?
Interested in joining our program? Startup Launchpad is open to teams
- with a startup idea
- from Saarland and across Germany
- ideally with a focus on scalable, technology-driven approaches
Apply now!
To apply, you’ll need a pitch deck with information about your idea and your team. Please send it by email to:
The application deadline for Startup Launchpad is July 3.
More information about the program
For specific questions about the Startup Launchpad, you can contact us anytime by email at startup@uni-saarland.de.
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