Aachen for start-ups and scale-ups

Aachen is one of the top cities for innovative start-ups and offers start-ups and scale-ups a unique ecosystem. RWTH Aachen University and FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences in particular create ideal starting conditions for young companies with their start-up programs. RWTH Innovation, the Collective Incubator and the start-up center at FH Aachen University support founders from the initial idea to the successful establishment of a company.

The digitalHUB Aachen has been connecting start-ups, SMEs and science since 2017 and is a central contact point for digital innovations with its location in Aachen-Nord. In addition, companies benefit from excellent funding opportunities, a strong industry and highly qualified talent from the universities.

Aachen also offers excellent prospects for scale-ups. With modern spaces in the newly designed "At The Park" on Jülicher Straße and other attractive locations, growing companies will find the ideal conditions for their expansion. Thanks to its proximity to the Netherlands and Belgium, Aachen also offers direct access to international markets. The city combines innovation, networking and quality of life - an ideal place to start, grow and stay.

Space brokerage

Has your start-up or scale-up already been successfully launched and achieved initial success on the market? Have you found your first investors and are they supporting your ideas and products financially? Customers are enthusiastic about the product? You're ready to go!

Aachen is one of the top locations for start-ups and scale-ups - with a unique combination of cutting-edge research, a strong economy and a lively start-up scene. Innovation centers such as RWTH Innovation, the Collective Incubator and the start-up center at FH Aachen University offer optimal conditions for young companies from the initial idea to market entry.

To ensure that start-ups can not only take off, but also grow in the long term, the Economic Development Agency provides active support in the search for space. Whether short-term solutions for rapid market entry, flexible office and production space in the innovation centers or long-term locations for scaling - we find tailor-made solutions. In Rothe Erde in particular, modern commercial space is currently being created specifically for start-ups and scale-ups in the field of urban production.

Aachen offers ideal conditions for innovation and growth - we can help you find the perfect location for your start-up!

Our service for you:

• Support in the search for suitable commercial properties and spaces
• Organization and accompaniment of tours
• Official support as your central point of contact for administrative processes

Funding advice

Successful growth with the right funding - funding advice for start-ups and scale-ups

The path from founding to successfully scaling a company requires not only a good business idea, but also financial resources. The right funding can make all the difference, especially for start-ups and scale-ups. Whether grants, loans or equity capital - the large number of funding programs at regional, national and EU level offers a wide range of opportunities to drive innovation and finance growth.

Individual advice for customized solutions

The funding landscape is complex and not every program is suitable for every company. This is why targeted funding advice is crucial. The City of Aachen's business development department helps start-ups and scale-ups to identify the right sources of funding and apply for them successfully. Important topics include:

• Business start-up grants for start-ups in the early stages
• Growth financing for scale-ups that want to expand internationally
• Investment support for new machines, IT infrastructure or production capacities
• Digitalization and sustainability as funding priorities for modern companies

Support services at various levels

Start-up and growing companies in Aachen benefit from numerous funding opportunities:

Support from application to implementation

In addition to selecting the right programs, a professional application is crucial. We support start-ups and scale-ups in the following areas:

• Identification of suitable funding programs
• Support with applications and documentation
• Networking with relevant institutions and partners
• Support in the implementation of the funded projects

This targeted support enables young companies to significantly increase their chances of obtaining funding and optimally supplement their financing strategy.

Whether start-up or scale-up - the right funding can accelerate growth and enable innovation projects. With professional funding advice, suitable programs can be used efficiently so that companies can successfully implement their vision. With its strong network of universities, business development and innovation centers, Aachen offers the best conditions for a successful funding strategy.

Start-up consulting

Your idea. Our support. Your success.

Do you have an innovative business idea or would you like to take your existing start-up to the next level? Our municipal start-up consultancy will support you with comprehensive expertise. Whether you are at the beginning of your business or have already grown - we offer you individual advice and valuable resources to successfully implement your vision.

Our offer for you:

Start now!

Take the first step and arrange a non-binding consultation. Together we will develop a strategy to turn your idea into a successful business.