Munich Founders' Prize 2026

About

A competition aimed at innovative startups and growth companies in Munich, offering coaching, media exposure, and recognition for winners. Participants can apply in two categories based on their founding dates and business criteria, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

Benefits

• 🎓Coaching Sessions
  Winners will receive a comprehensive package including two half-day coaching sessions with experienced consultants
• 📢Media Coverage
  Winners will benefit from media exposure to enhance visibility
• 🎤Podcast Invitation
  Winners will be invited to participate in the Munich Savings Bank's startup podcast
• 🏆Awards Recognition
  Winners will gain recognition through the audience award and jury prize.

Eligibility Criteria

• Companies must be based in Munich
• Must demonstrate an innovative, digital, sustainable, social, or regionally relevant business idea
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old
• Companies founded between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2025, are eligible for the "Startup" category
• Companies founded between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022, with around 15 employees and a minimum annual revenue of one million euros are eligible for the "Rising Star" category.

Participation Commitments

• Each company may apply only once
• Existing customer relationship with Stadtsparkasse München is not required
• Spin-offs, acquisitions, or companies with existing products are excluded.

Target Sector

All sectors

Target Location

Munich, Germany