WHAT IS EXIST WOMEN
Ready to take your startup idea to the next level?
EXIST-Women is your springboard. This program by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) offers women support before the actual business is founded. Whether you are a student, graduate, or professional – we will accompany you on your entrepreneurial journey from March 1 to December 31, 2026.
My EXIST-Women journey was a powerful experience filled with connections to inspiring, high-achieving women. I felt firsthand how much styling touches people, empowers them, and gives them the courage to show up as their true selves. The safe space provided allowed me to grow and step onto the stage with confidence. With this support, I have sharpened my method and now pass it on effectively to both women and men.
Natalia Kleemann, EXIST-Women 2025
SUCCESS STORIES
HOW WE SUPPORT YOU
FINANCIAL
SUPPORT
Material resources: A one-time payment of €2,000 for coaching, travel expenses, or testing your idea.
Scholarship: Optional monthly grant of €1,000 to €3,000 for 3 months (depending on qualification) plus a childcare allowance, provided there is no other income and working hours do not exceed 20 hours per week.
COACHING
The hike team will provide you with intensive support for your startup or idea qualification for 11 months (from March to December). Step by step, we will implement your project together. Additionally, you will benefit from our extensive network of experts.
MENTORING
Gain access to the hike network of experienced female experts, executives, and scientists. Your mentors will support you in implementing your idea and business strategy while sharing valuable practical experience with you.
WORKSHOPS
From business plan to website: In our practical workshops and co-creation sessions, we provide you with exactly the knowledge you need. We take away the fear of complex topics – no computer science or design degree required.
NETWORK
A strong network is the catalyst for your idea. We connect you with a diverse environment so that your vision can grow into a thriving company.
TOOLS AND METHODS
In our workshop at hikelab, you will find everything you need for your project: from physical tools and 3D printers to software for prototyping and marketing. Using methods like Design Thinking and Lean Startup, we help you to optimally understand your target audience and market potential.
CRITERIA
Your requirements for funding
The EXIST-Women program is specifically aimed at women interested in starting their own business. In addition to a willingness to participate in our 11-month qualification program, you will find further criteria for participation here.
1
YOUR PROFIE
You are a graduate, scientist, student (min. 50% of credits completed), or hold a vocational qualification. Your degree may have been obtained more than 5 years ago.
2
YOUR IDEA
You don't need to have a finished business idea yet. What matters to us is your desire to make a difference. Whether you are already pursuing an initial vision or want to develop a startup idea together with us during the program: we support you – regardless of your field of study or industry.
3
NO PRIOR FOUNDING
At the start of the program, you must not have founded a corporation or officially commenced your business activities.
4
NO PRIOR FUNDING
The program is aimed at female founders who have not yet received any startup funding from federal or state governments.
THE SELF-CHECK
Do I have what it takes to be a female founder?
✓ I am willing to invest enough time and energy into my idea
✓ I actively participate in networking events
✓ I speak openly and transparently about my idea
✓ I have a digital approach and a learning mindset
✓ I am curious and willing to constantly learn new things
✓ I value honest feedback and use it purposefully to improve
✓ I work in a structured manner and set clear goals
✓ I accept challenges and actively look for solutions
✓ I am open to cooperation and exchange with other founders
✓ I keep an eye on my finances and plan ahead
YOUR CONTACT
Ready for the next step? Do you have an idea or questions about EXIST-Women? Then let’s get started together! Just send us an email for a non-binding introductory meeting.
We will discuss your vision, clarify all program details, and plan the next steps.
FAQ
WHICH IDEAS ARE SUPPORTED BY EXIST-WOMEN? We welcome all ideas - regardless of the topic or focus of your idea. In an initial introductory meeting, we will listen to your idea and look together at how we can work together. We are open to everything that is new and innovative!
HOW LONG DOES THE EXIST-WOMEN PROGRAMME LAST? The support programme lasts a total of 12 months. During this time, we will provide you with advice and support to help you realise your dream of starting a business.
DO I HAVE ANY OBLIGATIONS DURING THE PROGRAMME? Yes, you must attend the "Female Founder" seminar and the biannual founder conferences. We also expect you to take part in the events and regular counselling sessions.
WHAT DOES THE PROGRAMME CONTAIN? We will personalise your idea and goals. You will be given access to various workshops, specialist materials and methods to help you develop your product.
IS EXIST-WOMEN ALSO AIMED AT WOMEN WHO WORK FULL-TIME? Yes, we also support working women. The lump sum of €2000 is available to everyone. However, the 3-month scholarship is linked to certain conditions, including a maximum working time of 20 hours per week.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE EXIST-WOMEN START-UP GRANT? You can receive the 3-month start-up grant if you have no income or work a maximum of 20 hours per week. This means that you can realise your idea on a part-time basis. If you already receive a personal scholarship or a benefit to bridge your living expenses, please contact us. This is usually not a problem. If you are already receiving Exist funding or funding from Exist Research Transfer, we cannot fund you.
DO I HAVE TO PAY BACK THE GRANT IF I DON'T START A BUSINESS? No. With Exist-Women, you are not obliged to found a company. Neither the grant nor the lump sum for material resources have to be paid back.
