Offers & Subsidies
From idea to start-up
We support start-up projects in the field of sports science, focusing on sport, exercise and health, with tailored training programmes, events and funding opportunities. From the idea phase through to prototype development and market launch, we support start-up founders with tailored services and help them find the right funding for each start-up project.
Depending on the stage of development of your idea, different funding options may be available. Whilst early-stage programmes are designed to help with brainstorming and orientation, more advanced programmes assist with concept development and implementation, as well as further support and funding for your start-up idea.
We’d also be happy to advise you individually on which programme is the best fit.
Brainstorming & Orientation
In the early stages, idea-generation and skills-building programmes help participants to refine their ideas, make contacts and develop initial approaches to solutions. These programmes are aimed in particular at those interested in starting a business, students, researchers, staff and alumni who wish to develop their ideas further in a systematic way.
DSHS Ideathon
Do you have a business idea related to sport, exercise and health?
As part of our ideas competition, the DSHS Ideathlon, start-up ideas are presented in the form of a poster session. Here, you can present your idea with no risk involved. You’ll receive initial feedback on your idea from recognised experts and have plenty of opportunities to network over a relaxed drink. The most exciting ideas will be pitched to the expert jury.
Gateway EM*power
For women who want to take their ideas further
Are you interested in innovative and creative ideas and solutions that add value to our society? Do you see exciting opportunities to solve everyday social problems? Perhaps you already have an idea and would like to develop it further? Are you keen to network?
We’re here to support you! With Gateway EM*power, we’re giving you the chance to develop your skills through a programme lasting several months and to overcome the specific barriers women face when starting a business.
StarS Kader
GSU's in-house incubator programme
We support potential founders with ideas related to sport, physical activity or health as they embark on their journey to setting up a business. Over the course of three months, founders receive structured feedback, a wide range of workshops and personalised support to help them develop their ideas further. The programme is aimed at students and staff at the Gateway universities in Cologne.
At the end of the programme, the entrepreneurs will pitch their ideas to you on a large stage in front of a jury of experts.
Funding & Financing
Without funding, nothing gets done. This applies equally to research and to the start-up world.
There are a wide range of public funding bodies, both national and international, that can provide you with financial support to help you bring your early-stage or more advanced projects to fruition.
Which funding scheme is best suited to your research or start-up project?
When is it worth accepting funding from private investors, such as venture capital firms or business angels? What do you need to bear in mind, and what are the pros and cons of equity investment versus grants? Can you combine the two? And how do you decide when the right time is for which type of funding or investment?
We’d be happy to advise you!
