EXIST Bootcamp

The EXIST Bootcamp co-created with SMILE is your fast track from university research to real venture creation. In just a few weeks, you will transform your idea into a strong, competitive EXIST funding application, with hands-on support from experienced startup consultants.

Why join the EXIST Bootcamp?

Because great ideas deserve more than just potential, they deserve funding, structure, and momentum.

With EXIST funding, you can receive financial support for:

• Your living expenses
• Material and development costs
• Professional coaching

💡 This means you can fully focus on building your start-up.

What you can expect

Over an intensive, structured program, you will:
✔ Sharpen your business idea
✔ Define your innovation and team strength
✔ Validate your market and competitive positioning
✔ Build a solid business and financial plan

Each week combines:

• Expert-led workshops
• Hands-on exercises
• Direct feedback from startup consultants
• Exchange with other ambitious founding teams

By the end of the bootcamp, you will have a ready-to-submit EXIST application — and a clear roadmap for your start-up journey.

Who should apply?

You are a great fit if you:

• Are part of Leipzig University (student, researcher, or graduate)
• Have a start-up idea (tech, knowledge-based, or research-driven)
• Want to apply for EXIST funding

Program Structure

📅 4 core workshops (Tuesdays)
Each focused on a key part of your application:

• Business Idea
• Innovation & Team
• Market & Competition
• Financial Planning

Between sessions, you will work on your application, supported by continuous feedback and coaching. We will assign this person, so you don’t have worry.

Dates 2026

Cohort 1
🗓 Application deadline: May 24, 2026

• June 2: Business Idea
• June 9: Innovation
• June 16: Market & Competition
• June 23: Financial Planning

Cohort 2
🗓 Application deadline: September 15, 2026

• September 29: Business Idea
• October 6: Innovation
• October 27: Market & Competition
• November 3: Financial Planning

Ready to take the next step?

💬 Register via your SMILE startup coach and start building your future.

Your idea has potential, now give it the support it needs to succeed.