The DESY Start-up School offers an educational program designed to equip scientists, engineers, and graduate students with entrepreneurial skills. Business planning is one of the most crucial factors in launching a successful start-up. Like any entrepreneur, scientists must identify the services and products that best serve their future clients. That is why the Start-up School curriculum focuses on business planning, which forms the foundation for growth and success in the market.

The application phase is now open until March 08, 2026. If you want to apply, please click on the link to the registration form on the right. The program is open to scientists and engineers worldwide, regardless of their research institute or employer.  There will be an online info session on February 24, more details here.

The Start-up School will provide scientists with tools for business development, budgeting, marketing strategies, and financing. It supports anyone developing a business model in a scientific setting on their journey to becoming a unique kind of entrepreneur - a #Sciencepreneur.

The DESY Start-up School Offers:

• A three-month incubation program (free of charge) to help launch your idea in the market
• Tailored webinars designed to help scientists become entrepreneurs
• One-on-one coaching sessions with experienced CEOs
• Access to a European network of like-minded innovators contributing to the world of tomorrow
• Insights into the upcoming 4D X-ray microscope PETRA IV and its potential to enhance your business ideas or R&D services.

Turning Science into Business

Candidates with a concept for a scientific service company are invited to apply for one of the 15 available slots at the DESY Start-up School. These scientific services should be based on advanced analytical and experimental techniques and may:

• Explore new industries or fields that can benefit from synchrotron measurements,
• Enhance and facilitate beamline measurements,
• Offer high-precision solutions for quality assurance and standardization,
• Develop hardware solutions (with integrated services) related to synchrotrons,
• Incorporate data analysis and/or AI methods,
• Create commercial computing environments.

A Safe and Challenging Space for Innovation

All participants are required to maintain the confidentiality of any information shared within the framework of the DESY Start-up School. We strongly encourage applications from female scientists and engineers. Our team of mentors and CEOs includes experienced female entrepreneurs who will support you on your journey to becoming a founder.

Info Session: An online info session on Tuesday, February 24 will be hosted, together with the program organizer and a moderator, to answer open questions and support applicants during the application process.

Schedule and more details here.