Three Hessen Open Calls, One Big Opportunity
Written
Author
Alise Munson
From preparing for investors and accelerating sustainable growth, we have three free programs for founders at different stages of their journey. Which one will startups pick?
This summer, we have opened applications for five free programs designed to help founders tackle challenges from fundraising to scaling. Three programs, the TQ Accelerator: IMPACT, the Fundraising Readiness Program and Hessen10, are aimed specifically at startups based in Hessen. These three programs are funded as part in the measure “Projects to increase competitiveness and motivation for start-ups” by the Hessian Ministry of Economics, Energy, Transport, Housing and Rural Areas.
Here is a rundown of the information startups need to apply:
TQ Accelerator: IMPACT
For Hessen-based startups combining growth ambitions with measurable environmental or social impact, the TQ Accelerator: IMPACT offers a focused route towards the next stage.
The program will bring together 10 to 15 late-stage startups and young scale-ups with a clear ESG focus, a validated minimum viable product, and ideally their first customers. Across six in-person program days in Frankfurt, participating teams will work on impact measurement, sustainable scaling, reporting, communication, investor readiness, and pitching.
Participants will also have the opportunity to present their solutions at the IMPACT FESTIVAL in Frankfurt on 25 – 26 November.
Application deadline: 17 August
Program period: September to November 2026
Startup Stage: Late-stage startups and young scale-ups, must be in Hessen
Cost: Free of charge
>> More Information & Application
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Fundraising Readiness Program
Raising capital is about much more than creating a pitch deck. Founders need to understand their financing needs, communicate a convincing investment story, and enter investor conversations with confidence.
TechQuartier’s Fundraising Readiness Program helps early-stage startups based in Hessen prepare for that process. The industry-agnostic program combines full-day workshops, focused deep dives, and optional one-to-one coaching.
Two identical editions will be offered, allowing founders to select the session that fits their schedule. Both cover the same content and bring participants together during the coaching phase and a final brunch.
Application deadline: 24 August
Program period: September to October 2026
Startup Stage: Early-stage startups, must be in Hessen
Cost: Free of charge
>> More Information & Application
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Hessen10
For market-ready startups seeking long-term growth support, Hessen10 combines intensive workshops, individual coaching, strategic guidance, and visibility within Hessen’s startup ecosystem.
The free five-month program is open to industry-agnostic startups based in Hessen, from seed to Series A. Ten selected teams will begin with an intensive kickoff and develop individual growth roadmaps covering their product, market, technology, team, go-to-market strategy, scaling, and fundraising.
Participants also receive one-to-one support mentors and ecosystem experts throughout the program.
Recent batches have included startups GreenBanana, revoltech, Magnotherm, Mamaye and Hyting.
Application deadline: 20 September
Program period: 5 October 2026, to 16 February 2027
Startup Stage: Seed to Series A, must be in Hessen
Cost: Free of charge
>> More Information & Application
