Your Gateway to the German Market
Empowering international industrial-tech start-ups to grow, connect, and succeed in Germany.
Program
The DOaccelerate program empowers international Industrial-Tech start-ups to enter the German market successfully. It provides a structured approach to building networks, validating products, and scaling businesses in Dortmund.
Target Audience
DOaccelerate is designed for start-ups in Industrial-Tech, Industry 4.0, Robotics, Automation, Simulation, Material Technologies and Artificial Intelligence with market-ready products looking to expand to Germany.
Duration
The program runs over several weeks and includes carefully planned modules to ensure effective preparation and a successful market entry.
Format (Hybrid)
DOaccelerate offers a hybrid format with flexible online sessions and in-person workshops in Dortmund, combining convenience with hands-on support.
Key Benefits
Participants gain access to expert mentoring, valuable networks, practical workshops, and deep insights into the German market, laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
Outcome
By the end of the program, start-ups are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive in Germany’s Industrial-Tech ecosystem and establish long-term success.
Insights & Inspiration
The DOaccelerate Blog
Stay updated with the latest trends, success stories, and expert tips for start-ups in industrial-tech.
DOaccelerate: Your Gateway into the German Market
You are an international start-up looking to successfully enter the German market? Don’t hesitate to sign up for DOaccelerate, the…
TechnologieZentrumDortmund (TZDO): A Leading Innovation Hub
Dortmund has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a thriving innovation hub, making it an excellent launchpad for international startups…
Robotics & Automation in Dortmund: Innovation and Research
Dortmund as a Hub for Robotics & Automation Research Dortmund is a hotspot for robotics and automation research, where universities,…
AI in Dortmund: The Perfect Launchpad for AI Start-ups in Industry 4.0
In the rapidly evolving landscape of Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence is playing a transformative role in manufacturing, logistics, biotechnology, and…
Innovative Materials & Technologies in Dortmund: Welcome to the High-Tech Hub
With leading universities, renowned research institutes, and specialized competence centers, the city offers companies a unique environment for developing cutting-edge…
Simulation: Pioneering Virtual Solutions
In recent years, Dortmund has evolved into a leading location for technology and innovation. Numerous research institutes and universities play…
Target Audience
Is This Program Right For You?
Simulation: Pioneering Virtual Solutions
Whether in industrial planning, process optimization, or product design, simulation technologies are in high demand. DOaccelerate gives you the tools to validate your solutions and access key industry players.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Unlocking Intelligent Solutions
For AI-driven start-ups, DOaccelerate provides the ideal platform to validate and implement intelligent solutions. Whether it’s machine learning, predictive analytics, or automation, we can help you connect with partners and scale your impact in Germany.
Robotics & Automation: Innovation & Research
If your start-up develops cutting-edge robotics or next-level automation solutions, DOaccelerate connects you with Germany’s thriving industrial sector! So showcase your technology, gain market insights, and build partnerships to accelerate your growth.
Materials Technologie
Your innovative material-tech startup is ready to tackle the German market? DOaccelerate connects you with industry partners, provides valuable market insights, and opens doors to new business opportunities to pave the way for ther materials of the future. Accelerate your market entry – fast, efficient, and with the right connections!
Program Modules:
Your Path To Success
Market Analysis
& Legal Advice
Gain a clear understanding of the German market landscape and the legal frameworks essential for doing business. Experts help you navigate regulations and validate your market entry strategy.
Infrastructure
& Networks
Access Dortmund’s robust infrastructure and connect with industry leaders, investors, and partners. Build the networks you need to establish your business successfully.
Sales
& Marketing
Learn how to position your product effectively, implement tailored marketing strategies, and understand the needs of German customers to drive sales and growth.
Talent Acquisition
& Financing
Find the right talent to scale your team and explore financing options that fuel your growth. Benefit from guidance on securing investors and optimizing funding strategies.
Scaling
& Growth
Develop a solid growth plan and receive hands-on support to scale your operations sustainably. Learn best practices to expand and make a lasting impact in Germany’s industrial-tech ecosystem.
Product Localization
& Validation
Adapt your product to meet the specific needs of the German market. Receive feedback from industry experts and potential customers to ensure your solution aligns with market demands and expectations.
Partners & Mentors
Dominik Stute
Chamber of Industry and Commerce - Dortmund
Head of Unit Innovation | Industry | International Networks
Andrea Schubert
Economic Development Agency Dortmund
Team Lead Startup and Investor Support
Cornelia Schwizer
Zenit GmbH
Internationalisation/Technology Transfer
Florian Schnitzler
NRW.Global Business GmbH - Trade & Investment Agency
Head of Startup Unit & Israel
Dr. Christoph Gehlen
TechnologieZentrum Dortmund
Head of ZfP Dortmund (Center for Production Technologies)
Alessandro Selvaggio
TU Dortmund
Head of Competency Center for Digital Productiontechnologies
Why Dortmund?
Your Gateway To Innovation
Dortmund is a leading hub for industrial-tech and Industry 4.0, offering start-ups a thriving ecosystem with access to research institutions, technology hubs, and key industry players. Its central location in Europe connects you to investors, partners, and markets across the region.
With modern coworking spaces, incubators, and high-tech centers, Dortmund provides everything start-ups need to scale successfully. Beyond business, the city offers affordable living, excellent transport links, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an ideal place to live and work.
By clicking play, you agree that the video will be loaded from Google's servers, which may collect data about your interaction.
Learn more in our privacy policy.
Eligibility
Requirements
To apply for the DOaccelerate program, your start-up must meet the following requirements:
Industry Alignment
Operate in industrial-tech sectors such as Industry 4.0, robotics, AI, automation, or simulation.
Product Readiness
Have a market-ready product or solution that can be validated and scaled in the German market.
Company Stage
Be an early-stage or growth-stage start-up with a structured business plan and defined market strategy
Team Commitment
Be prepared to actively participate in all program components, including both online sessions and in-person workshops in Dortmund.
English Proficiency
Ensure team members can communicate effectively in English, as it is the primary language of the program.
International Ambition
Have a clear objective to expand into the German market and establish a presence in Dortmund.