The Gründergeist, organised by the Wirtschaftsjunioren (young entrepreneurs) of the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, is Hamburg's most traditional startup competition. This year it is being held for the 19th time. Once again, the best innovative business ideas from the metropolitan region are being sought. The closing date for applications is 30 June 2025.
These are the prizes and conditions for Gründergeist 2025
A total of seven startups will reach the final, which will take place on 25 September. Attractive prizes and benefits await them:
professional pitch training for all finalists
individual mentoring and access to the network
live pitch at Xperion Hamburg in front of investors, decision-makers, media representatives and mentors
a total of 20,000 euros in prize money for the three best teams
media coverage, including by the Hamburger Abendblatt and NDR
The competition is aimed at individuals or teams in the founding phase who would like to receive support and feedback from experts. The company should already be registered and based in the Hamburg metropolitan region. A jury of experts will review and evaluate all business plans received by 30 June and invite the seven most promising startups to a pitch scheduled for 20 September. The decision on the top 3 will be made there and the award ceremony will then take place at the public final event. Success at Gründergeist has often proved to be a springboard for startups. Last year's winner Parto, for example, was able to close a financing round totalling 2.5 million euros shortly afterwards.
