UNITE: New lighthouse for startups launched in Berlin-Brandenburg!

UNITE: New lighthouse for startups launched in Berlin-Brandenburg!

On July 10, 2025, the UNITE – Startup Factory Berlin-Brandenburg project was recognized as one of ten nationwide lighthouse projects for science-based start-ups. This award from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy includes funding of up to 10 million euros over five years. In addition, private investors have pledged an additional 10 million euros in the event of a funding commitment. UNITE aims to establish itself as a central transfer platform for technology-driven spin-offs from science and industry in the capital region FU Berlin reported.

The founding of UNITE e.V. was largely driven by the Berlin University Alliance. This alliance includes renowned institutions such as the Free University of Berlin, the Humboldt University of Berlin, the Technical University of Berlin and the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. A central focus of the project is on the areas of artificial intelligence, health and green technologies, with the aim of strengthening innovation paths between research and application beyond classic technology transfer. According to Prof. Dr. Günter M. Ziegler believes that cooperation between universities, colleges and business is crucial for the future.

Ecosystem for startups

UNITE acts as a comprehensive ecosystem for science-based startups in Berlin and Brandenburg. This initiative was initiated as part of the EXIST lighthouse competition 'Startup Factories'. It brings together forces from science, business, politics and society to provide entrepreneurial training to 50,000 new talents from universities and research institutions every year. A central goal is the integration of entrepreneurship and business knowledge into all degree programs.

The aim is also to increase the proportion of female founders to 40 percent by 2030. In order to realize this ambitious plan, it will be necessary to improve the conversion from seed to Series A financing through targeted support from venture capital and investors. In the coming months, the focus will be on developing key content and developing the Startup Factory's business model.

Importance of the Startup Ecosystem

The startup ecosystem includes a variety of actors that are essential for the creation and growth of startups. This includes founders, investors, mentors, accelerators, incubators, government agencies and universities. Loud Startup Insiders The main goal of this network is to promote the growth of startups by providing access to necessary resources, know-how and financing opportunities. Founders are the driving force behind every startup and bring ideas and innovations. Investors provide capital while mentors offer valuable experience and advice.

The interaction of these elements not only promotes innovation and business start-ups, but also creates new jobs and strengthens the economy. Collaboration in the startup ecosystem enables everyone involved to expand their know-how and networks.