Program 2025

NETWORKING & INTRODUCTIONS

Get to know your fellow participants and meet key multipliers, accelerators, and institutions from NRW

RATE THE CORPORATES - REVERSE PITCH

The roles are flipped! Leading global companies and hidden champions from NRW pitch to YOU. Afterward, enjoy the networking opportunity.

Location: Industrie- und Handelskammer zu Dortmund, Märkische Str. 120, 44141 Dortmund

BUSINESS MEETS FOOTBALL

Take an exclusive tour of Borussia Dortmund’s legendary Signal Iduna Park stadium and dive into the intersection of sport, business, and culture.

LOGISTICS UNDER THE STARTS

Join a sunset cruise within Europe’s biggest inland port in collaboration with Startport, the logistics and innovation platform, and connect with their extensive network of companies and multipliers.

INDUSTRY MEETS INNOVATION MEETS CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Explore NRW’s industrial heartland with a visit to ZINQ GmbH, where innovation and circular economy opportunities take center stage. Expect additional special guests within the industrial and circular ecosystem!

DISCOVER THE ECOSYSTEM

Meet the local supporters, hubs, and key players who are eager to introduce you to the region’s thriving startup scene. This is your chance to connect with the people who can help shape your future. Afterwards, you can take advantage of dedicated workspaces to manage your business.

THE NETWORKING POWERHOUSE

Get ready for an exciting networking opportunity with influential business leaders, regional corporates, and other startups. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with great food and drinks, all while taking in breathtaking views of Essen from the Ruhr Tower.

Location: Essen Ruhr Tower, Am Thyssenhaus 1-3, 45128 Essen

DIGIDAY: INNOVATION FAIR FOR DIGITAL BUSINESS

Showcase your startup at the DigiDay event in one of the industrial vibrant regions of NRW, meet exhibitors, potential clients, and engage with visitors from your industry.

11.00 AM
Offical start of DigiDay 2025

11.30 AM
Guided tour across the exhibition

12.15 PM
Pitch Session

1.45 PM
End of Pitch Session / Lunch Break

Location: SIHK zu Hagen, Bahnhofstraße 18, 58095 Hagen

THE GRAND FINAL

The Grand Final is the highlight of the Start.up! Germany Tour, where the partcipating startups take the stage to pitch their ideas in front of a high-level audience of investors, corporates, and ecosystem experts. Compete for prizes worth €18,000, donated by the NRW government, and seize the opportunity to gain visibility, attract potential partners, and take your startup to the next level. Impress the jury and secure your spot among the top innovators in Europe!

By arrangement with our partners, the startups can secure individual meetings with corporates, institutions and organizations who represent the dynamic economic powerhouse NRW.