The Next.Generation Incubator, the support programme for social entrepreneurship conducted by the Körber Start-Hub, is entering its fourth round. It is looking for young founders whose business models pursue at least one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The application period runs until 31 July.
The winners of the final pitch of Next.Generation Incubator 2025 © Mathias Jäger/Hamburg Startups
These are the eligibility criteria for the Next.Generation Incubator
No prior startup experience is required to apply; all necessary know-how will be provided through the workshop programme. The only requirement is a relatively concrete idea that is oriented towards the common good and contributes to at least one of the SDGs. Further criteria:
Individual applications are possible, but experience shows that teams have a greater chance of success.
The majority of team members must be under 30 years of age.
Applicants should live in the Hamburg metropolitan area.
One to two weekdays should be set aside for independent work. The intensity of the programme increases as it progresses.
At least one person from the team should always attend the workshops.
The programme begins on 8 October 2026 with a kick-off event at the Körber Start-Hub. From November 2026 to March 2027, eight workshops will take place, during which the, expected 13, teams will be taught the basics and will refine their business models. An interim pitch is scheduled for 2 April, at which a wildcard for the final in October will be awarded. In between lies the prototyping phase, during which the emerging startups will continue to work on their products or services and prepare them for market launch. The six most promising teams will then present their ideas at the final pitch. In 2025, Yakady won the jury prize of 50,000 euros, whilst waymaker stories secured the audience prize worth 5,000 euros.
