Competitions
The German Innovation Award 2026
The German Innovation Award honours the pioneering innovative strength of German companies.
Only companies based in Germany are eligible to participate. In addition, the innovations must already be successful on the market and have been developed predominantly in Germany. Participation in the German Innovation Award is free of charge, no fees are charged.
The prize is awarded in the following categories:
- Start ups
- medium-sized companies
- Large companies
This year's application phase runs until 31 October 2025.
Click here for the application
MUT - the NRW Founder Award
The application phase has unfortunately come to an end. The expert jury will evaluate all applications received.
Who will win one of the three prize packages from MUT - DER GRÜNDUNGSPREIS NRW?
In addition to prize money of 20,000 euros, they consist of:
- Coverage in regional media
- Provision of film and image recordings
- More awareness for your company
- Top networks with the NRW start-up scene
German Gastro Founder Award
The German Gastronomy Founder Award is looking for the most innovative catering ideas from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Start-ups and those interested in founding a business can win attractive start-up packages worth over €10,000. The main prize: €10,000 in prize money, 40 hours of advice from industry professionals, media presence, technical equipment, a photo shoot and appearances at specialist congresses.
Application phase until 8 December 2025. After jury and social media selection, the best teams will present their concept live at INTERNORGA in March 2026 - the public will choose the winner.
Founders of legal age from the DACH region with a gastronomy concept, either already open (from 1 April 2024) or with a planned opening by 31 December 2026, can take part.
You can find more information and the opportunity to register on the official website of the German Gastro Founder Award.