Accelerator

From validation to accelerated growth

The BRYCK Accelerator fast-tracks the growth of your deep tech startup.

In 12 weeks, you'll get ...

Tailored 1:1 expert support

Strategic industry access

Investor introductions

Program Overview

Target group:

Early-stage startups from the pre-seed to  pre-Series A with a validated prototype, MVP and first market traction

Cost:

Free of charge and equity free

Duration:

12 weeks, twice per year, starting April & September

Format:

On-site kick-off in Essen, mostly remote support, curated mentoring, expert sessions and ecosystem access

Focus areas:

Energy, Water, PropTech, Chemistry & Materials, Personalised Medicine, Secure & Intelligent Systems (SIS)

Next dates & deadlines:

  • Application Deadline: February 2027
  • Program Kick-Off: March 2027
  • Portfolio day: June 2027

Program Details

No two deep tech startups face the same challenges. That is why the BRYCK Accelerator is tailored to your company’s priorities, growth barriers and opportunities.

Application & selection process

You apply via Dealum by creating your startup profile and uploading your pitch deck. This helps us understand your stage, focus and where our support can create the most value.

Your application is reviewed by a high-caliber panel of industry experts and more than 20 international top VCs who evaluate your technology, market potential and fit with the program.

On-site kick-off

You start the program in Essen with the BRYCK Startup Alliance team, your cohort and relevant ecosystem partners. Together, we identify the most pressing challenges and align on your focus for the next 12 weeks.

Tailored 1:1 mentor & expert sessions

You set the pace and agenda for your weekly check-ins. Most of the program takes place remotely, so you can keep building your company while getting the support needed to make concrete progress.

Based on your priorities, we assign mentors and experts to work hands-on with you on your specific challenges — from experienced founders and operators to industry, technology, sales, fundraising, regulatory and business development specialists.

Network & investor access

Where relevant, we connect you with corporate partners, potential customers, research institutions and ecosystem partners to test assumptions and create opportunities that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

You prepare for investor conversations and gain curated access to top VCs and business angels and GF BRYCK Ventures, our dedicated pre-seed fund investing up to €300,000 in selected startups.

Portfolio Day & ecosystem events

You can present your startup to investors and ecosystem partners at our annual Portfolio Day and join us at leading startup and industry events to build visibility and relevant networks.

Alumni network

As part of the BRYCK Startup Alliance community and our growing national and international ecosystem you can access alumni activities, community events and future opportunities beyond the program.

Application requirements

Legal setup:

Your startup is officially registered in Germany or abroad and already active in the market.

Product readiness:

You have a working MVP, tested concept or first pilot customers.

Strategic fit:

Your startup fits one of our innovation clusters and network strengths.

Scalability:

Your business model is scalable, with a clear target market and growth potential.

Commitment:

You can join the on-site kick-off, take part in (mostly weekly and remote) mentoring sessions and engage in selected additional formats like expert meetings and relevant ecosystem activities.

BRYCK Alumni Voice

"Our absolute highlight was the incredible pace and structure of the program, which instantly helped us transform fuzzy ideas into a clear go-to-market and fundraising strategy. BRYCK truly pushes startups to scale and become the best versions of themselves."

Fanny Getenu, Co-founder of Alithea Bio

FAQs

Can researchers apply before working full-time on the startup?

Yes, if there is a clear path toward company building. The stronger your commitment, team setup and commercialization potential, the better the fit.

How do you handle confidential or sensitive information?

We only share information with mentors, experts, partners or investors where it is relevant to your program journey. Sensitive technical or business details should be flagged clearly before discussions.

How much time should we plan per week?

The program is designed to run alongside building your company. As a benchmark, startups should plan around 2–3 hours per week for mentoring, expert sessions and relevant ecosystem activities, depending on their priorities.

Can different team members participate?

Yes. Different team members can join relevant sessions, depending on the topic and where they can contribute most.

How often do we need to travel to Essen?

The program starts with an on-site kick-off in Essen and is mostly remote afterwards. Additional in-person formats may include introductions or selected events.

Are travel costs reimbursed?

Travel support may be available for selected on-site formats and is handled within the program guidelines. Details will be shared with selected teams.

How do you support international ventures?

Providing access to the German market for international startups is one of the cornerstones of our program. We help you validate your market entry and connect with relevant partners, customers and investors.

How are corporate introductions selected?

Introductions are curated based on strategic fit, technology relevance and your current business challenge. The goal is to create meaningful conversations, not generic networking.

Which investors will we meet?

You get access to a curated network of top VCs, angels and sector-specific investors. Matchmaking depends on your stage, industry, fundraising needs and investor fit.

Does every team receive investment from GF BRYCK Ventures?

No. GF BRYCK Ventures is our dedicated pre-seed fund and can invest up to €300,000 in selected startups, but investment decisions are made separately.

Is fundraising mandatory?

No. Fundraising can be a focus, but the program can also support market validation, customer access, pilot opportunities, partnerships or positioning.

Can we apply again if we are not selected?

Yes. If your startup becomes a stronger fit for a future batch, you can apply again.

Our Program and Cluster Partners

Contact

Julian Wessing

Director Startup Programs

Julian Wessing

Sign Up for Updates