Date: July 17th – August 7th (online)
+ October 7th-9th
Expand to one of Europe’s economically strongest areas
Although entering a new market is exciting and it opens new possibilities, it is also a challenge. But expanding internationally is important and we are helping you to take this difficult step. The Up2B Market Discovery program was created especially for international startups that are planning to expand to the German market.
You are looking into expanding to the German market? Then this 4 week + 4 days program is for you! The program is divided into two parts – Bootcamp & Masterclass:
Bootcamp - During 4 weeks we guide you through four digital workshops (17.7, 23.7, 25.7, 7.8, 2 hours) with the aim to find out if expanding to the German market is the right next step for you. You will get an overall overview of the market and region, focusing on your internationalization strategy and sales operations. At the end of the four weeks you will have your potential customers identified and know how to reach out to them.
Masterclass - The masterclass will allow you to spent 4 days in Heidelberg and Mannheim to get a good look at the region, so you can decide if it fits your plans for international expansion. Located in the Rhein-Neckar region in southwest Germany, both cities are a hotspot for international corporates and offer a huge potential for startups with a B2B and industry-tech focus. International companies like SAP, BASF, Daimler and Bosch are all located in this area. In addition to that, the region is famous for it’s highly innovative „Mittelstand“ (German for SME’s) and is considered one of the main drivers of Europe’s largest economy.
The program consists of:
- workshops, 1-on-1 mentoring, input sessions and social & networking events
- input from experts that give you insights on:
- How to establish a company in Germany?
- How to find the first clients?
- How to find employees?
- What are pitfalls in the process?
- How does living in Mannheim and Heidelberg look like?
- Is the Mannheim & Heidelberg area the right market for an entry?
- … and many more
- corporate speed dating with potential clients from the region
Application deadline - The application deadline is on July 3rd 2024
Program location
The bootcamp will take place online, the masterclass takes place on site. The first two days will take place in Mannheim (MAFINEX Technologiezentrum, Julius-Hatry-Str. 1, 68163 Mannheim), the third and fourth day (September 28th and 29th) will take place in Heidelberg (BDC, Carl-Friedrich-Gauß-Ring 5, 69124 Heidelberg).
Program costs
Since Up2B is funded by Startup BW and Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economics, Labour and Tourism, the participation is free including food and beverages during the program on site. Please note though that any transport or accommodation costs are not covered.