The Berlin Startup Grant is a publicly funded program for technology-driven early-stage startup teams, co-financed by the State of Berlin and the European Social Fund. The SIBB Incubator is SIBB’s official incubation program within this framework. It is aimed at teams with a technological focus, particularly in the fields of cybersecurity and trustworthy AI.

The program typically runs for a period of 10 months . Selected founders receive a monthly stipend of €2,500 per person. In addition, the SIBB Incubator offers a structured program featuring mentoring, coaching, workshops, and expert sessions, as well as exclusive access to Berlin’s startup ecosystem through the SIBB network.

We are looking for early-stage startup teams with technology-based solutions (primarily software, but also hardware). A team must consist of at least two people; solo founders are not eligible. In addition, at least one person on the team should be capable of competently driving the technical implementation.

Not necessarily. The program is specifically designed for early-stage teams that want to further develop and validate their idea.

The SIBB Incubator has a clear focus on cybersecurity and trustworthy AI. Cybersecurity is understood in a broad sense: solutions related to data protection, digital sovereignty, secure digital infrastructure, responsible data processing, or secure AI applications are also a great fit.

A startup does not, therefore, have to be exclusively a traditional cybersecurity startup. Applications in areas such as education, healthcare, energy, public administration, or other sectors may also be suitable if the core technology aligns with the program’s focus.

Yes. You must be officially registered as a resident of Berlin when the program begins. If you currently live elsewhere, you must be willing to move to Berlin in advance.

No, funded founders are expected to work full-time on their startup; in principle, they are not expected to hold a separate job once the program begins. Furthermore, the incubator is designed as an in-person program in Berlin. Remote participation is not possible, as regular attendance at workshops, coaching sessions, and networking events is required.

The program is specifically designed for startups in the very early stages. Generally speaking, you shouldn’t be generating any revenue yet; if you’re already actively selling on the market, that’s often considered too far along.

However, pilot projects, tests, or initial validation steps are permitted as long as you are not yet in a regular commercial market phase. Having a website is generally not a problem—but if prices are already listed there and the product is being actively marketed, this may be a disqualifying factor. Additionally, the intellectual property rights to the solution must belong to the founders or the team.

The program is primarily aimed at individuals who have not yet built a successful business. Extensive prior experience or previous exits may limit eligibility, but do not automatically disqualify you from participating. If only some members of your team meet the criteria, those members may receive financial support, while the remaining team members can participate in the program without funding.

The next application round for the cohort starting in May 2027 is expected to begin in December and end in February. The application process consists of several stages: It begins with registration or a preliminary check on the SIBB website, followed by the submission of a complete application via the F6S platform . Applicants must submit documents such as a pitch deck, team information, and details on market opportunity and feasibility; in some cases, videos are also requested. After an initial review, interviews or a jury evaluation take place, followed by a selection pitch for the shortlist. The final decision is typically made about two to three weeks before the program starts.

Yes, participation is generally possible. SIBB has already gained experience working with government agencies and has assisted international participants with visa processes. In addition, the program places great emphasis on diverse teams and has a clear focus on supporting female founders, although this is not a formal requirement for applying.

Participation is generally open to international founders. We have previously gained experience working with government agencies and can assist you with visa processes. Additionally, we place great value on diverse teams and have a clear focus on supporting female founders to strengthen diversity in Berlin’s tech scene.

We encourage you to build and launch your business in Berlin during the program . However, once the funding period ends, you are free to decide what to do next and where to base your business.