Impossible Founders launches deep-tech accelerator iF Momentum
The Hamburg-based Startup Factory Impossible Founders is launching iF Momentum, an accelerator programme designed to help deep-tech startups reach market readiness more quickly. Participating teams will receive 100,000 euros and the opportunity to put their technologies through practical testing in pilot projects.
iF Momentum is designed as a long-term project
Impossible Founders plans to promote up to 200 deep-tech startups in total by 2035. In the coming years, support is to be significantly expanded in collaboration with investors and partners, with a stronger focus on companies capable of global scaling. When deep tech fails, it is usually not due to the technology itself, but to the transition into the commercial world. That is why concrete implementation gains centre stage at iF Momentum. Over a six-month period, startups are supported in realizing pilot projects, demonstrating integration in real-world environments and laying the groundwork for the next funding round. In addition, capital of 100,000 euros is made available in the form of a convertible loan.
A tailor-made programme for selected startups
Unlike most accelerators, iF Momentum will not operate on fixed-duration batches. Instead, applications are accepted at any time and the programme is tailored to the specific needs of the startups. Impossible Founders will work with a small number of carefully selected teams to specifically accelerate the critical transition from technology to real-world application. For that purpose the startups will gain access to labs, infrastructure and specialised services, as well as individual coaching and mentoring.
The following basic conditions apply for participation:
The deep-tech startup must already be founded and have a full team in place.
The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) must be at least Level 5.
For the Integration Readiness Level (IRL) the minimum requirement is Level 3.
The focus is on pilot readiness within six months.
The programme aims to deliver a validated path to real-world application, a completed pilot project or comparable evidence, a concrete basis for industry partnerships, and an investor readiness package.
