berlin quantum pioneer
November 30th - december 4th, 2026
From research to Commercialization in one week
A one-week Berlin program for quantum startups, combining technical insights with tailored coaching and mentoring. Refine your pitch, learn what investors look for, work on protecting your IP and define concrete next steps for your venture.
deadline: 15th november 23:59
This is for you if:
You’re a founder building a startup using quantum technology and want to sharpen your business idea into a compelling investment ready pitch while becoming familiar with Berlin’s research industry.
You’re a scientist researching quantum technologies and exploring what it takes to turn your research into a startup.
An annual initiative, now with Silicon Allee
This programme is part of an annual initiative delivered by Berlin Quantum. This year, Berlin Quantum partners with Silicon Allee to deliver the Berlin Quantum Pioneer Programme, a natural match for founders making the move from research to market. Silicon Allee’s connection to Fraunhofer also brings participants closer to HHI’s researchers and photonics labs.
What’s in it for you
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Articulate your value proposition, technological advances and market potential for investors, corporate sponsors and prospective commercial partners.
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A workshop on funding options for early-stage deep tech startups, what investors look for, and how to tell a compelling science-to-market story. Topics include grants, other non-dilutive funding, and when equity investment makes sense.
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A practical workshop on protecting your technology as it moves from research to prototypes and pilots, ending with priority actions before demonstrations, partnerships and fundraising. Designed for startups at TRL 2-4.
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Discuss your technical challenges with Fraunhofer HHI photonics researchers, who give targeted feedback and explore opportunities for collaboration.
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Complimentary participation in ecosystem events and further networking opportunities curated for the cohort.
how the week will look like
Learn. Gain insights from experts on fundraising, IP and patents, and other key topics for quantum startups.
Refine. Strengthen your business idea through pitch coaching and technical mentoring with HHI photonics researchers.
Explore. Discover Berlin’s quantum ecosystem, from research and chip fabrication to packaging and testing, through visits to Fraunhofer HHI’s photonics laboratories.
Connect. Attend Complimentary participation in ecosystem events and further networking opportunities curated for the cohort.
Pitch. End the week at Demo Day, pitching your startup to investors and experts in the quantum field, followed by a Q&A and dedicated networking.
