Are you interested in starting your own business? Do you already have an idea? The “Gründungsheldinnen” (Founding Heroines) program, part of the EXIST-Women funding initiative, is here to support you in 2026 (subject to funding approval). Participants of the program recieve personalized coaching and attend workshops on topics such as business models, financing, market analysis, and target audiences. Together with a cohort of up to 10 aspiring women founders, and alongside other startups from the Oldenburg region, you’ll regularly exchange ideas and insights on key entrepreneurial topics. The program also offers opportunities to connect with women founders from across Germany through nationwide workshops. Each participant is paired with a personal female mentor, providing guidance and sharing valuable experience at critical moments.

Applications open on November 1, 2026.

You will receive a one-off grant of €2,000 which you can use for travel expenses and materials.

You can also receive one of the following scholarships for up to 3 months (under certain conditions*):

Between €1,000 per month for students, over €2,500 for graduates (Bachelor or Master) up to €3,000 for doctoral candidates.

* You are unemployed or employed for a maximum of 20 hours/week and have not yet been granted another startup grant.

Summary of Info:

• Qualification program in 2026
• One-time lump sum of €2000
• Up to 3 months scholarship (€1000 - €3000/month, subject to social security contributions)
• Mentoring

Requirements:

• Women only
• Female students, employees, researchers, alumni
• Certain requirements apply for the scholarship (see above)
• A startup idea is not required at the time of application, and you are of course welcome to continue working on an idea you already have

Application:

• The application phase is planned for 1 November to 15 December 2025. More information on the application will follow shortly.

For any questions please contact Dr Annika Summ ([email protected]; Tel. 0441 798 4941) or Janneke Mertens-Fabian ([email protected]; Tel. 0441 798 4946).

You can find more information about Exist Women here: exist.de/programm/exist-women/