Call for Applications - GeneNovate 2025/2026

GeneNovate is the first nationwide entrepreneurship program in Germany, designed to empower innovators and entrepreneurs in the field of Gene and Cell Therapies (GCT), Biotech and Medicine. 

Who should apply?
The program targets early-career scientists and physicians, such as advanced students, PhD candidates, and Postdocs, but it is also open to experienced researchers and medical professionals.

When does it take place?
The GeneNovate program runs from November 2025 to June 2026 and includes a kick-off meeting, six theoretical input sessions (hybrid), six full-day workshops (onsite), team-based preparation and presentation of startup pitches and culminates in the Final Event in Munich. 

Locations hosting the GeneNovate Workshops:
•    Berlin
•    Heidelberg
•    Munich
•    Region EAST (Dresden, Leipzig)
•    Region NORTH (Braunschweig, Göttingen, Hannover, …)
•    Region NRW 1 (Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf, …)
•    Region NRW 2 (Bochum, Dortmund, Duisburg, Essen, …)
•    Region RHINE-MAIN (Mainz, …)
•    Region SOUTHWEST (Freiburg, Tübingen)

This comprehensive program is offered free of charge and places are limited. 
DEADLINE: 09.11.2025
More information and application to your preferred GeneNovate site: follow this link! 

Note: if you are affiliated to DKFZ and are working at a different location than Heidelberg (e.g. Dresden or DKTK and NCT sites), please apply directly at the GeneNovate stream closest to your location.