Deadline:
June 19, 2026
Location(s)
Germany
Overview
Details
Ready to take your research to the next level? In our Top-Talents-Track, we support outstanding doctoral candidates and postdocs over three intensive months as they transform their entrepreneurial ideas into real ventures – whether as entrepreneurs or intrapreneurs. The focus is on personal development and tangible transfer. Together with a small cohort of 20 selected participants, you can expect exclusive coaching sessions, access to a professional network, and hands-on input. The application phase for the current cohort has ended, but don’t worry – the next round starts in May! Sign up to our mailing list via this link to be kept informed and take your research to the next level!
The programme is aimed at early-career researchers from all disciplines with no prior entrepreneurial experience who already have a concrete idea. Participation is free of charge.
Discover New Perspectives: Our Workshops
Through interactive workshops and practical methods such as Design Thinking, we aim to encourage you to view your research from an entrepreneurial perspective and unlock your potential.
Our free workshops are open to master’s students, doctoral candidates, and postdocs from all disciplines at German universities of applied sciences (HAWs), higher education institutions, and universities.
Top-Talents-Track: Your next Step towards Entrepreneurship
Ready to take your research to the next level? In our Top-Talents-Track, we support outstanding doctoral candidates and postdocs over three intensive months as they transform their entrepreneurial ideas into real ventures – whether as entrepreneurs or intrapreneurs. The focus is on personal development and tangible transfer. Together with a small cohort of 20 selected participants, you can expect exclusive coaching sessions, access to a professional network, and hands-on input. The application phase for the current cohort has ended, but don’t worry – the next round starts in May! Sign up to our mailing list via this link to be kept informed and take your research to the next level!
The programme is aimed at early-career researchers from all disciplines with no prior entrepreneurial experience who already have a concrete idea. Participation is free of charge.
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Selection Criteria
We welcome applicants from research who:
- are currently doing a PhD or have completed a PhD
- are affilitated with a German University or research institution
- have a concrete start-up idea
- demonstrate innovative thinking and a commitment to advancing their field or project
- Are proactive, collaborative, and eager to contribute to the programme’s community.
Dates
Deadline: June 19, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
Benefits of the Top-Talents-Track
The programme offers selected participants a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth:
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Kick-Off Event in Berlin: Start your journey with an inspiring in-person event to connect with peers and mentors. Travel scholars- hips are provided.
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Digital Workshops and Career Talks: Engage in expert-led sessions on future skills and the founder mindset—from storytelling to innovation. Featuring role models who share their personal entre- preneurial journeys.
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Peer-to-Peer Exchange: Collaborate in interactive formats over the three- month programme to share experiences, ideas, and insights with like-minded peers.
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Personalised Career Consultations: Receive one-on-one guidance to shape your next steps and connect with YES partner organizations, inclu- ding university innovation centers.
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Networking Opportunities: Meet entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, trainers, researchers, and consultants. Learn from their successes—and failures—to shape your own path.
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Visibility & Reach: Gain recognition through YES communication channels to boost your ideas and projects.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
