3 international competitions and programmes that startups can now apply for
For many startups, international expansion is a key long-term goal. Taking part in international competitions and funding programmes can be a shortcut to achieving this. In this article, we introduce you to three current examples: Red Bull Basement, SCALE’HER and GreenMantis.
Red Bull Basement
Anyone wishing to take part in the Red Bull Basement competition should hurry, as the application deadline is 12 April. The entry requirements are pretty simple: you just need to be at least 18 years old and have a good idea. The most promising concepts will be presented on 23 April at the German final in Heilbronn. Those who make it through will travel to the global final in San Francisco; the exact date is yet to be announced. The top prize there is 100,000 US dollars. Along the way, participants receive support from the eponymous drinks manufacturer as well as the other sponsors, Microsoft and AMD, including AI tools.
SCALE’HER
The SCALE’HER accelerator programme is specifically aimed at female founders in the deep tech sector. It offers places for 60 startups and combines a six-month intensive support programme with a subsequent three-month period of targeted one-to-one mentoring, both delivered via online formats. The accelerator is funded by the European Union. To be eligible to participate as a startup, at least one woman must be part of the founding team and at least 25% of the company’s shares must be held by women. The programme culminates in a multi-phase pitch, where the winning team gains valuable contacts with six investors. The application phase ends on 31 May.
GreenMantis
GreenMantis is also an EU project. The name does not refer to the insect but is an abbreviation for ‘Green Manufacturing and Advanced Net-zero Technology Innovations’. The programme is only suitable for relatively advanced startups or scaleups, as the call for proposals explicitly mentions SMEs. At least ten projects will receive funding of up to 100,000 euros. To qualify, at least two companies from different economic sectors in EU Member States or associated countries must collaborate and apply net-zero technologies at a high standard (TRL 6 to 8). The deadline for applications is 20 May.
